Some Quake Victims Get Utility Bill Break

Trying to ease the burden for some quake victims, the Los Angeles City Council voted Friday to offer relief on water, power and sewage bills for homes and businesses ravaged by the Northridge temblor.

“This is about encouraging people to stay and rebuild,” said San Fernando Valley Councilwoman Laura Chick, who recommended the relief proposals. The relief only applies to the billing period that includes Jan. 17, the day of the quake.

Under the proposal, the owners of businesses and residences that were “red tagged,” or declared unsafe, can get up to $200 off their water and power bill while the owners of businesses and homes that were “yellow tagged,” or restricted to limited entry, can get up to $100 off the bill.

Also, the city is offering to waive about 45%, or up to $200, off the sewer service charge for residences and businesses that were “red tagged.”

Combined, the quake relief is expected to cost the city about $1.1 million, according to a senior city analyst.

The council delayed a decision on whether to waive a one-time sewer hookup fee for quake-damaged businesses that are rebuilt at new locations within the city of Los Angeles.

Last week, the council gave a five-year, 25% utility discount to businesses that start rebuilding within 12 months of the quake and within 10 blocks of their original sites.