Palo Alto Activates Utility Payment Program, Call Center

PALO ALTO, CA — Palo Alto is introducing a support call center and utility payment relief programs for residents on Wednesday as it responds to the spread of novel coronavirus in the Bay Area's epicenter for the pandemic, Santa Clara County.

The city will implement a temporary ban on shut-offs for nonpayment, extend repayment plans and expand rate assistance programs based on medical and financial need. Residents can also access an existing program, Project Pledge, to support one-time bill payment funded by customer donations.

Santa Clara County announced its fifth death from coronavirus on Tuesday, and an updated number of 155 infected patients. It is currently the worst-affected region in the Bay Area, and has been joined by nearly every neighboring county in implementing shelter-in-place orders through April 7.

Essential services will remain open, like hospitals, pharmacies, gas stations and grocery stores, but other stores and businesses will be closed.

The community support call center will be activated Wednesday at (650) 272-3181, and will be open Monday to Friday between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Visit the city's online hub for information related to coronavirus.

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