Liberty announces protections for Apple Valley customers amid COVID-19 pandemic (March 30, 2020)
APPLE VALLEY – Liberty Utilities recently announced several actions the company says were taken to protect Apple Valley customers and employees during the coronavirus pandemic.
The actions include restricting public access to the local customer service office to safeguard against the spread of COVID-19 and a temporary moratorium on service disconnections, according to a statement from the water company.
Additionally, protections for low-income customers enrolled in the California Alternative Rates for Water program have been put in place, the statement said.
“We recognize our customers count on the essential services Liberty provides,” said Tony Penna, Liberty’s vice president and general manager. “With the uncertainty surrounding this virus, we want to provide our customers continued access to the services they need to help maintain their health and safety.”
Customer service and payment options
In compliance with Gov. Gavin Newsom’s March 19 executive order, public access to the Apple Valley customer service office located on Ottawa Road has been temporarily closed until further notice. Customers can speak to a representative at 760-247-6484 or by submitting comments or questions online. To do so, and for a complete list of payment options, including online, phone or mail, visit www.LibertyUtilities.com.
Temporary moratorium
Liberty recently announced the suspension of all service disconnections for non-payment to assist customers and communities impacted by COVID-19. The temporary suspension includes residential and business customers, and is expected to remain in place through at least May 1. Customers experiencing hardship or financial uncertainty are encouraged to contact Liberty’s customer service department to discuss payment options and other assistance programs.
CARW Customers
During the pandemic, Liberty has temporarily suspended any removals from the CARW program, which provides a credit for enrolled low-income customers. Additionally, the company has halted all recertification and verification requests for this program.
Water quality
In the statement, Liberty Utilities said tap water is safe from COVID-19, according to the World Health Organization and the CDC. Additionally, the company said the Water Research Foundation reports that drinking water is not a “vector” for COVID-19 and does not transmit the virus.
Liberty follows Environmental Protection Agency-established regulations regarding treatment requirements for public water systems that prevent waterborne pathogens, such as viruses, from contaminating drinking water, the statement said.
COVID-19 is a type of virus that is particularly susceptible to disinfection and the standard treatment and effective disinfectant processes. Liberty’s staff in Apple Valley are working each day to test and treat the water, as well as inspect and maintain facilities to provide the public safe drinking water.
For additional information, or to be added to Liberty’s email distribution, call 760-247-6484. Follow Liberty Apple Valley on Facebook for updates.
Source: Victorville Daily Press