In response to a proposed 10 percent increase in water and sewer bills set to take effect in April, Mayor Tom Arceneaux is advocating for significant changes to the Shreveport Water Assistance Program (S.W.A.P.). The proposed adjustments aim to alleviate the financial strain on the city’s lowest-income residents.

The City Council is slated to finalize the rate increase on February 27, prompting Mayor Arceneaux to explore avenues to mitigate the impact on vulnerable citizens. S.W.A.P., in effect since 2001, initially aimed to assist low-income individuals with water and sewer bills but faced limitations in eligibility and application accessibility.

Acknowledging the shortcomings of S.W.A.P., the Mayor’s proposal introduces a streamlined approach. Eligibility will be simplified, with possession of a valid SNAP card rendering citizens eligible for the program. Unlike the current S.W.A.P., the revised program won’t restrict the number of times citizens can access assistance. Those who qualify will receive a 10 percent discount on their total water and sewer bill monthly, offering potential savings of $5-10 for most customers. The plan envisions an annual re-certification process.

While some details remain undecided, the city administration is committed to creating a more effective assistance program within the existing budget of approximately $500,000 allocated for S.W.A.P. The final budget will hinge on resident enrollment.

Although this proposal doesn’t address every citizen’s concerns, the city administration asserts its responsiveness to the Council’s goal of minimizing or eliminating the impact of the rate increase on many citizens. The Mayor has the authority to implement this program without significant additional Council legislation, but suggestions from the Council are welcomed.

The ultimate aim is to have the revamped assistance program in place shortly after the proposed rate increase, offering a more straightforward and accessible solution for citizens in need. The city administration is optimistic that this initiative will better serve the community and ensure financial relief for those most affected by the impending rate hike.