Water Services Division Progress Report Highlights OPC’s Success in Serving DC Water Consumers
Washington, DC -- The Office of the People's Counsel for the District of Columbia today released the "OPC Water Services Division 2019-2020 Progress Report," which documents the numerous benefits OPC has provided to water consumers since becoming the statutory representative for DC Water ratepayers in April 2019.
"Prior to April 11, 2019, DC Water consumers lacked an independent advocate to voice their concerns about disconnections, high bills, water leaks, and other issues. They also lacked a viable place at the table when rate increases were considered," said People's Counsel Sandra Mattavous-Frye. "Since OPC came onboard, DC Water customers have received tangible benefits. Our continuing work is especially important now as residents adapt to the COVID-19 pandemic and water is needed as a life-saving protection."
April 11, 2020 marked the one-year anniversary of the DC Water Consumer Protection Amendment Act of 2018, the law that gave OPC the authority to represent DC water customers and led to the creation of the Water Services Division of OPC. The Progress Report cites examples of WSD's accomplishments. During its first year OPC:
The OPC Water Services Division 2019-2020 Progress Report is available here.
With this release, OPC is launching #WaterWednesdayWisdom, a periodic series of digital messages that will inform consumers about WSD initiatives, educational information and industry trends.
- Addressed more than 450 consumer complaints
- Negotiated more than $45,000 in bill credits to consumers
- Prompted DC Water to increase transparency in its operations
- Worked on legislation giving low-income residents access to more bill payment assistance
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Media Contact: Doxie McCoy Public Information Officer (202) 261-1180 dmccoy@opc-dc.gov