The island’s utilities have responded to Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero’s call to help out with trash fee payment collections.
The governor made the call last week as part of her plan to mandate universal trash collection for all residents.
In response, the Guam Waterworks Authority drafted Resolution No. 17-FY2021, which calls for a Memorandum of Agreement authorizing the management of the Guam Power Authority and the Guam Waterworks Authority (GPWA) to receive payments from the Guam Solid Waste Authority.
According to GWA general manager Miguel Bordallo, GSWA requested for payment collection assistance as they believe many of their customers are also residential customers of GPA and GWA.
Although there is no mandate in law for this assistance making the requested action neither necessary or urgent, accepting GSWA collections is seen to make payments more convenient for Guam residents, especially GWA and GPA customers who are also GSWA customers.
According to Bordallo, a Memorandum of Agreement detailing the terms and conditions under which GPWA will agree to receive GSWA payments will be required prior to provision of this assistance.
This MOA will address the segregation of funds with no mingling of funds, limitations on liability, and the responsibilities of each party involved, including the payment of fees and costs.
Under the draft MOA, GPWA offices participating will be the GPWA offices and/or drive-thrus in Fadian, Julale, and Upper Tumon.
The costs for the requested assistance will all be borne by GSWA who will pay for any costs needed to upgrade the CC&B software required to operate the service. GSWA will also pay for materials and pay a processing fee.
GPWA can only begin accepting payments if this is approved by the Consolidated Commission on Utilities. Once the MOA has been enacted, the CC&B software upgraded, and proper notice has been provided to the public, only then can the project push through.
The CCU has tabled the matter for the time being saying more discussions are needed, especially with regard to the legal aspects of the matter.
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