City Trash Collection Billing FAQs
Why is the billing for City Trash Collection being separated from utility services?
The billing separation is in response to regulatory concerns raised by the TVA regarding non-electric charges on electric service bills. This change ensures compliance with TVA's requirements while enhancing transparency and accountability in our billing practices.
How will the billing process change?
Your City Trash Collection will be billed separately from utility services. You will receive two separate bills - one for your utility services and another for the City Trash Collection. However, in many cases, you can continue to make a single payment covering both bills, ensuring a convenient payment process.
How does this benefit me as a customer?
Separating the City Trash Collection into a separate invoice enhances transparency and customer understanding. This change provides a clearer breakdown of charges, giving you a comprehensive view of your expenses. It also ensures compliance with TVA's requirements and promotes an improved billing process.
Will the due dates for the separate bills be different?
The current due dates for the separate bills will remain the same. BVU Authority is committed to ensuring that due dates are conveniently scheduled for our customers. Any changes to due dates will always be communicated to you well in advance.
How will this affect the City Trash Collection service?
The separation of billing does not affect the City Trash Collection service or its operations. The City of Bristol will continue to manage program eligibility, collection operations, and enforcement mechanisms. Any related questions should be addressed to the City of Bristol, Virginia, at 276-645-7380. BVU Authority's role is to handle billing-related inquiries and ensure a smooth billing experience for our customers. For any inquiries related to the City Trash Collection billing, please get in touch with BVU Authority's customer service team.
Why is the City Trash Collection billing being separated from BVU?
The separation of City Trash Collection billing from BVU is a strategic decision to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements set by TVA regarding non-electric charges on electric service bills. This separation enhances transparency and accountability while ensuring that BVU maintains compliance with TVA regulations.
How will this change affect my billing process?
Your billing process will remain familiar and convenient. You will continue to receive your utility bills, including the City Trash Collection fee, consolidated in one envelope. This approach streamlines your billing experience and reduces the risk of misplaced bills.
Who should I contact if I have questions or issues related to my trash collection fee?
Although BVU does not control or set the rate for the City Trash Collection, we have been contracted by the City to process the billing operations. You can contact BVU's customer service team for any questions or concerns regarding your trash collection fee. We will be happy to assist you.
For additional questions about the service, please contact the City of Bristol, Virginia, at 276-645-7380.
Will my payment due date change as a result of this separation?
No, your payment due date will remain the same. You should continue to make payments by the existing due date to avoid any late fees or service interruptions.
Will this separation affect the quality or frequency of my trash collection services?
No, this change is administrative in nature and will not impact the quality or frequency of your trash collection services. The City of Bristol will continue to provide the same services as before.
For additional questions about the service, please contact the City of Bristol, Virginia, at 276-645-7380.
Can I still pay my trash collection fee through BVU's regular payment methods?
Yes, you can make a single payment for all your utility bills, including the trash collection fee, by writing a check and mailing it in. This ensures convenience and simplicity in managing your payments.
Other forms of payment, like Auto-Pay, phone payments, online payments, and kiosk payments, will be processed as two separate transactions with BVU.
How does separating the trash collection fee enhance transparency and accountability?
Separating the fee onto a separate invoice allows for a clearer understanding of charges. This helps you to have a comprehensive view of your expenses and promotes transparency and accountability in our billing practices.
Where can I find more information about this billing separation?
You can view the insert in your utility bill with detailed information about the City Trash Collection Billing Separation. Additionally, you are always welcome to contact BVU's customer service team for any specific inquiries. If you're looking for an answer that must come from the City, we will help you get in touch with their staff.
What steps are BVU taking to ensure smooth operations during and after this transition?
BVU is actively reviewing and aligning service practice policies and procedures with operational changes and TVA regulatory guidance. Clear roles and responsibilities will be established to ensure efficient operations. We appreciate your patience and understanding throughout this process.
Will this change impact my access to other BVU services, such as electric or water service?
No, this change is specific to the billing process for City Trash Collection only. Your access to other BVU services will remain unaffected.
What benefits will customers experience as a result of this separation?
Customers will benefit from a more transparent billing process. This separation ensures compliance with BVU regulatory standards and enhances customer understanding of their expenses.
How do I set up automatic payments for the City Trash Collection fee?
You can set up automatic payments for the City Trash Collection fee through BVU's online customer portal or by contacting BVU's customer service team. We will guide you through the process whenever you're ready.
Can I opt for paperless billing for the City Trash Collection fee?
Yes, you can enroll in paperless billing for the City Trash Collection fee through BVU's customer portal. This option allows you to receive your bills electronically for added convenience.
Is there a grace period for the City Trash Collection fee payments?
BVU's billing process will continue to follow its standard process. Please refer to your bill for specific due dates. At the close of each month, BVU will report any unpaid balances to the City of Bristol for enforcement.
For specifics on how the City handles payment enforcement, we will be happy to transfer you to their staff.
How can I update my billing preferences or contact information?
You can update your billing preferences or contact information through BVU's customer portal or by contacting BVU's customer service team. We will assist you in making the necessary updates.
What happens if I have overdue payments for my trash collection fee?
Overdue payments for the trash collection fee will follow BVU's standard billing process. It's important to make payments by the due date to avoid late fees and potential service interruptions. At the close of each month, BVU will report any unpaid balances to the City of Bristol for enforcement.
For specifics on how the City handles payment enforcement, we will be happy to transfer you to their staff.
Will unpaid trash collection fees be included in my property taxes?
BVU will continue to provide standard billing services for the City Trash Collection fee. At the close of each month, BVU will report any unpaid balances to the City of Bristol for enforcement.
For specifics on how the City handles payment enforcement, we will be happy to transfer you to their staff.
Can I provide feedback or suggestions regarding this billing separation?
Absolutely, while this process is currently complete and cannot be altered. We welcome your feedback and suggestions for incorporation into future projects. You can share your thoughts with our customer service team, and we will ensure your input is heard and considered.
How will BVU ensure that this transition maintains the highest level of service for customers?
BVU is committed to upholding the highest level of service for our customers. We are happy to actively collaborate, review our practices, and align our procedures with regulatory guidelines to ensure a seamless transition that maintains the quality of service you expect.
