ANCHORAGE — To mitigate economic harms resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic, today Mayor Ethan Berkowitz announced that Anchorage Water and Wastewater Utility (AWWU) and Municipal Light and Power (ML&P) are temporarily suspending utility shutoffs. The suspension is effective today and will remain in effect for the duration of the municipally declared disaster. Providing access to clean water for drinking and washing hands remains critical to preventing the spread of COVID-19. Shutoffs necessary for safety purposes will continue.
“We're in the midst of a pandemic, which is causing dramatic repercussions to our economy. I want to make sure that no one is worried their water or power will be shut off because it's suddenly tough to pay bills," said Mayor Berkowitz.
Anchorage residents should continue to pay their utility bills on schedule. Regular billing will continue to accrue while shutoffs are suspended. Those who are unable to pay should contact AWWU and ML&P customer service directly to work out individual payment plans.
AWWU: (907) 564-2700, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
ML&P: (907) 263-5340, Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The ML&P lobby is closed until further notice, but bill pay is available over the phone, drive-thru, and the online portal.
Solid Waste Services (SWS) does not suspend anyone's trash or recycling service, regardless of payment status. SWS is assessing how to handle relief for any customers struggling with payments as a result of the COVID-19 response.
Visit
www.muni.org/covid-19 for updated information about the Municipality's actions regarding COVID-19.
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Media contact: Ira Slomski-Pritz, Office of the Mayor, (907) 444-5356, ira.slomski-pritz@anchorageak.gov