File #: O-475-23    Version: 1 Name:
Type: Ordinance Status: Approved
File created: 8/29/2023 In control: Public Utilities Department
On agenda: 9/26/2023 Final action: 9/26/2023
Title: Authorizing the Mayor to enter into a one-year agreement with the option to renew for up to two additional one-year terms with Promise Network Inc. for Department of Public Utilities accounts receivable collection services and customer affordability program management services; authorizing the expenditure of an amount not to exceed $235,000 from the Utilities Administrative Services Fund; waiving the competitive bidding requirements of T.M.C. 187; and declaring an emergency.
Attachments: 1. Audio: Agenda Review 9/5/2023, 2. Hyperlink, 3. Video: City Council 9/26/2023
Label
DPU091223PROMISEPAY
Utilities Administration
C. Geronimo (x2363)
Revised

Title
Authorizing the Mayor to enter into a one-year agreement with the option to renew for up to two additional one-year terms with Promise Network Inc. for Department of Public Utilities accounts receivable collection services and customer affordability program management services; authorizing the expenditure of an amount not to exceed $235,000 from the Utilities Administrative Services Fund; waiving the competitive bidding requirements of T.M.C. 187; and declaring an emergency.

Body
SUMMARY & BACKGROUND:
Ordinances 388-21 and 409-22 authorized the Mayor to enter into one-year agreements with Promise Network Inc. ("Promise") for Department of Public Utility accounts receivable collection services and customer affordably program management services. This ordinance will continue a partnership that is vital to helping both customers and DPU.

Promise Network Inc. ("Promise") is a financial technology company that works to implement cutting-edge technology to enhance agency efficiency and improve customer experience while enhancing the revenue of the public agency. Promise developed Promise Pay as the modern payment platform for public services. They work with utilities and other government agencies across the country.

Promise facilitates payments and grant disbursements on behalf of utilities and government agencies. Promise Pay payment plans provide customers an automated solution for adding flexibility and convenience to past due balances. Their portal allows rapid distribution of financial assistance grants from local, state and Federal sources, such as The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and Low-Income Water Assistance Program (LIWAP). Their third-party Pledge Portal gives Community Action Organizations and other partners access to relevant account information necessary to provide relief funds.

Summary
NOW, THEREFORE, Be it ordained by the Co...

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