As part of the ongoing response to COVID-19, The City of Red Deer is allowing its customers to defer water, sewer and waste utility payments for 90 days with no penalties, if they are struggling to pay their bills.

Public Information Officer for the Cities Emergency Operations Centre Amara Heppell says they've heard from a lot of concerned citizens about the potential financial impact of the pandemic.

"We are minimizing financial hardship on the public. If people are unable to make payments at this time, no new late fees will apply to water, wastewater, and garbage collections services after March 19th."

Heppell says if you're able to pay, please do, but if not, you won't be penalized.

"Simply we're asking people, if they are able to make payments during this time, to continue to do so. However, if you are in a situation where you find that difficult at this time, you don't have to do anything, just know that no new late penalties will apply to your bill for water, wastewater service, and garbage at this time." 

The City is also suspending parking fees in the downtown until further notice. This includes metered parking and daily lots. 

More information can be found here at the City of Red Deer's website.