Culver Clerk-Treasurer Karen Heim explained a program to the town council members last week concerning the collection of utility bills.
A Memorandum of Understanding was presented to the council to initiate the program called TRECS, or Tax Refund Exchange and Compliance System, through the Association of Indiana Counties.
Heim said it is a tool the town could utilize that would assist in the collection of unpaid utility bills if residents leave town without notice. A report would be uploaded the system each week.
Heim stated, “If someone is found in the system, like maybe they get a tax return or something, it flags them. A letter is sent to that person. They’re given 30 days notice, I think, to let them know that their tax return will be hit or they can settle up. If they don’t, then it’s taken off their income tax return and then returned to the town.”
The user would also be charged any fees associated with the collection.
There is no cost to the town.
She noted that the Town of Argos has the program and it has been successful, along with a few other municipalities in the state.
Town Attorney Jim Clevenger said he reviewed the Memorandum of Understanding and passed along his blessing for approval.
The Culver Town Council members approved the Memorandum of Understanding with a unanimous vote.
