Franklin County provides water and sewer services to about 40,000 residents in unincorporated parts of the county, and offers a discount program for low income customers. The program provides a discount of 20% on water, sewer, or both, and in order to qualify, customers must either already participate in an assistance program such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP), or Home Energy Assistance (HEAP), or have income below the federal poverty level.
“Clean water and sanitary sewer service are basic needs of every resident,” said Board of Commissioners President, Marilyn Brown. “No one should have to worry about having these services in their home, and we are committed to doing everything we can to ensure that everyone can afford them.”
Most county water and sewer customers are in the Darbydale and Prairie Township areas and, of the 1.2 million Franklin County residents, about 17% are living below the poverty line.
“The purpose of this discount is to help struggling families cover a basic household staple,” said Commissioner Paula Brooks. “Clean water is a basic necessity. Making it more affordable for families that still struggle to find good jobs in this recovery is essential.”
The water and sewer rate discount offer is part of a partnership with the City of Columbus. Franklin County purchases some of the water it delivers from the city and pays to have some sewage treated, and City water customers are eligible for the same discount amount.
“Franklin County is the fastest growing county in Ohio, and that growth is good for our residents,” said Commissioner John O’Grady. “But with growth comes a greater need for services, and services for residents of different income levels. We’re working to make sure that every family in Franklin County has the tools it needs to succeed.”
Interested Franklin County Water and Sewer customers may download an application for the discount at
http://cleanwater.franklincountyohio.gov/. or call 614-525-3940 for more information.