Newton City Commission to consider expanded utility assistance program
Commissioners will also review street closures and a proposed animal trapping amendment during Tuesday's meeting
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Sign up freeThe Newton City Commission is set to consider a resolution expanding the city’s Low Income Utility Assistance Program during its regular meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday. The revamped program would increase a one-time utility credit from $100 to $150 and eliminate the previous 65-and-older age restriction, opening the benefit to financially strained residents of all ages.
To qualify, applicants must be the primary account holder and demonstrate economic need, such as enrollment in Medicaid, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families. The assistance program would be funded with a $20,000 annual appropriation from the city's water utility budget.
In addition to the utility aid, commissioners will hold a first reading to discuss amending the city’s animal trapping ordinance. The agenda also includes requests to close downtown streets for upcoming community events, including the Taste of Newton on Oct. 15 and the annual Halloween Walk on Oct. 31.
Other scheduled business features a proposed franchise agreement with Kansas Gas Service and a request to transfer 3.84 acres of land near Southwest 14th and South Plum streets to the Newton Land Bank.
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