The Wilkinsburg Penn Joint Water Authority's (WPJWA) billing system currently does not accept autopayments or allow customers to check their balance online. This makes the authority even more reliant on paper billing which for years WPJWA customers have complained about inconsistency and inaccuracy. 

The lack of transparency and communication surrounding the authority's switch to a new billing provider is the latest example of how little concern there is for how people's water service impacts their lives. Ratepayers were given no warning about the switch and then faced the consequences without any help from the authority. This situation comes after years of growing frustration in the community over customer service, affordability, water quality and flooding issues. Underpinning all of these issues is a lack of communication, transparency and concern for the communities WPJWA is supposed to serve. 

Utilities throughout our region offer customer assistance programs as a humane way to ensure all people have access to crucial resources. WPJWA has no form of customer assistance and currently no plans to pursue such a program. 

To address the crises in the WPJWA service area, WPJWA must stop performing shutoffs. WPJWA needs a billing system that is accessible, reliable and equitable. 

We are demanding that WPJWA implement an immediate moratorium on shutoffs until the online billing system is fully operating and there is an assistance program for low income ratepayers to be able to afford their water bills. 

Water is a human right. It is time we demand our public authorities treat the people they are intended to serve with the dignity and respect that all people deserve. 

Please sign this petition to support our demand.