Fairburn City Council earlier this month made adjustments to several utility service charges due to activities by some customers during the past year involving city utility equipment. Adjustment were also based on recommendations by the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia (MEAG). The increases became effective with the council’s approval.

The price increases largely involved costs associated with water and electric meter repair and replacement. The cost to repair or replace damaged meters was changed to reflect the actual cost of the repair. Previously there was no charge for the service. Cut seals on meters now carry a charge of $50. Previously there was no charge for cut seals. Disconnect fees increased from $25 to $35 while reconnect fees after hours went from a free service to one carrying an $80 charge. Showing no change in fees were meter tampering fees of $400, reconnect fees during business hours, attorney’s fees and a $30 returned check charge.

The amount of deposits at the initial service sign-up also remained the same and is based on the customer’s credit score. A $500 deposit is required with a credit score less than 600, compared to $350 for scores ranging from 600-650, and $250 for scores greater than 650. No deposit is required for credit scores greater than 700.