Grayson RECC working with members to pay their bills

GRAYSON — Grayson RECC recently announced a series of steps to start regular operations and work with members who are behind on their bill payments. Beginning Wednesday, Oct. 21, Grayson RECC will begin efforts to collect past due balances. In March, Grayson temporarily suspended disconnections and late fees for nonpayment as an emergency relief measure for members faced with financial hardships due to the coronavirus. The suspension of disconnects was an emergency relief measure, according to a press release. “We know many members are struggling financially,” said Bradley Cherry, Grayson RECC interim president and CEO. “Please be assured, we will work with people to establish a reasonable repayment plan. If anyone is having trouble paying their bill, they should call (606) 474-5136 or 800-562-3532. In most cases, we can work with them on a plan to spread out payments and catch up on past due balances.” Grayson announced that prepay accounts in arrears with multiple weeks of no electric usage will be disconnected beginning Wednesday, Oct. 21. Members in arrears who are on traditional account plans based on prior usage will be disconnected on the co-op’s regular schedule, starting Monday, Nov. 9. In a new campaign to avoid disconnects, Grayson has launched communications to members in Carter, Elliott, Greenup, Lawrence, Lewis and Rowan counties to explain their payment options and how to avoid being disconnected. Grayson officials stressed that it is urgent for members who are behind on bills to contact the co-op office and make payment arrangements. “Members have many options, but switching to PrePay is the best way to pay down a balance,” Cherry said. “The important thing is to contact us and to pay what you can.” Grayson members can pay their bills by U.S. mail, drive-through or night drop. They can also pay by card of check by calling 800-562-3532. Additional options include paying at www.graysonrecc.com or through the mobile app. Finally, Grayson members can pay with card or check each month through the auto-pay program. Grayson RECC has been helping members facing economic hardship contact the local Community Action Agencies within its six-county service area. “The cooperative spirit of helping each other is at work,” said Cherry. “It’s been a tough year, but we’re getting through it the co-op way, together.”