THOMASVILLE — Consecutive days of subfreezing temperatures likely will result in higher Thomasville Utilities bills to combat the cold weather.

During the first 22 days of 2017, the temperature dipped below freezing three days. To date this year, subfreezing days number 15.

“Obviously, it’s a lot colder than it was last year. Utilities bills are going to be higher than last year,” said Michelle Juarez, City of Thomasville chief finance officer, told Thomasville City Council at a Wednesday meeting.

Juarez said anyone with a hardship and a higher bill should contact the utilities department as soon as they receive the bill. Customers should contact the city before a bill is overdue.

Thomasville Utilities provides energy-saving tips, among other information, on the city’s website at thomasville.org.

The city also:

• Offers customers online energy-efficiency tools, such as energy calculators and interactive energy home models. The tools are available to help customers identify cost-saving measures that can be implemented to help reduce utility bills.  

• Offers a budget billing program that allows qualified customers to pay a set amount based on their average annual utility usage. Enrollment is held twice yearly for the program (April and October).

• The City of Thomasville provides free energy audits upon request to help customers identify ways they can save energy and lower utility bills. Energy audits can be scheduled by calling 227-7001 or online.

• Has an app available for Android and iOS devices that allows customers to monitor their account usage more closely. Customers also may view and pay bills and view payment history through the mobile app.

• Customers may seek assistance in paying their bill from the Salvation Army and Neighborhood Service Center. Both organizations have been informed the city will allow customers up to three months to pay for higher than normal usage.

“We truly want to work with all our customers,” Juarez said.  

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820