Winooski River Sewer Break Incident Response Page: Details
Water Resources Assistance Programs
The Water Resources Assistance Program (WRAP) was established in 2021, and offers a variety of financial, conservation and infrastructure assistance options.
We also participate in State programs that provide funding for residents impacted by COVID-19.
**For Rebate Program information, please scroll all the way to the bottom of this page!**
Bill Discount Program
This program temporarily waives the monthly water and/or wastewater fixed meter fee for approved applicants. The specific eligibility requirements are outlined in the policy and application documents below, and include:
- being an account holder,
- receiving a bill that provides metered service to one residential unit and
- demonstrating status as a low income customer, a senior customer or a non profit housing organization.
Please let us know if you would like these documents mailed to you or call (802) 863-4501 if you need interpretation services. The application and policy materials are currently available in English and Spanish with future translations planned.
Payment Assistance
Limited Time Partnership Programs
- The Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) provides water bill assistance to eligible homeowners AND renters. You do not need to have been impacted by the pandemic to apply.
- This program has been EXTENDED until March 30th 2024. Apply Today!
- The Vermont Homeowner Assistance Program (VHAP) provides grants to eligible homeowners for utilities, mortgage, property taxes or HOA fees because of COVID related economic hardship.
- This program is no longer accepting new applicants, but households can sign up for a waitlist through the link below. Applicants who applied before the 6/12/23 deadline will be notified by VHFA about their application status.
- This program is no longer accepting new applicants, but households can sign up for a waitlist through the link below. Applicants who applied before the 6/12/23 deadline will be notified by VHFA about their application status.
Flexible Payment Terms
- Payment Agreements: We can offer no interest payment arrangements for up to 24 months on a past due balance. Please email us or call to learn more about how we can help.
- Budget Billing: We will begin offering a budget billing option for account holders in 2024 with authorization forms available online or via mail.
Other Community Resources
- The Vermont 211 database contains detailed descriptions of programs and services available to Vermonters that are provided by local community groups, social service and health-related agencies, government organizations, and others.
- The Champlain Valley Office of Economic Opportunity (CVOEO) provides individuals and families with the basic needs of food, fuel and housing support in times of crisis, and we help them acquire the necessary education, financial skills and assets to build a stable future in which they thrive.
Rebate Programs
WaterSense makes it easy to find and select water–efficient products that can help your wallet and the environment. Just look for products bearing the WaterSense label at your local retailer.
WaterSense labeled products are backed by independent, third–party certification and meet EPA’s specifications for water efficiency and performance. When you use these water–saving products in your home or business, you can expect exceptional performance, savings on your water bills, and assurance that you are saving water for future generations.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Rebate Amount: up to $75.00
Documentation Required:
- Complete Rebate Application
- Complete W9 Form
- A photo or scanned copy of your proof of purchase
- A photo of the installed fixture
TERMS & CONDITIONS
- Offer is only available to accounts in good standing
- Offer valid on all purchases made after 7/1/2021 while funding is available
- Fixture must be a WaterSense approved product
- Fixture must be purchased in Vermont
- Limit one rebate per account
- Rebate application must be submitted within 60 days of the date of purchase
- A complete W9 is required in order to issue a rebate. A 1099 form will be issued if applicable.
Sewer Lateral Video Inspections
The sewer lateral is the pipe that connects the drains in your home to the City's sewer infrastructure. Over time, these pipes can be impacted by root intrusion from nearby trees, corrosion, cracks, punctures, or blockages from grease buildup or non-flushable objects. Many homeowners are unaware that this pipe is their financial responsibilty - and can be faced with costly surprise repairs in the event of a blockage or break.
A sewer lateral video inspection can help identify any issues with the pipe and give homeowners the opportunity to plan for repairs before an emergency arises. A service technician will insert a small video camera mounted to a cable into the sewer lateral line and record the length of it, identifying any concerns along the way.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Rebate Amount: up to $250.00
Documentation Required:
- Complete Rebate Application
- Complete W9 Form
- A photo or scanned copy of your proof of purchase
- A completed inspection report, including any photos or video documentation, and any quote provided for repair / replacement if needed
TERMS & CONDITIONS
- Offer is only available to accounts in good standing
- Offer valid on inspections made after 7/1/2021 while funding is available
- Inspection must be completed by a contractor registered to do business in the State of Vermont
- Limit one rebate per account
- Rebate application must be submitted within 60 days of the date of purchase
- A completed W9 is required in order to issue a rebate. A 1099 form will be issued if applicable.
