'Opt out' cards, info mailed with Benton bills
By LEWIS DELAVAN News editor

The new Share Program will help troubled Benton Utilities customers.

Bills will be rounded up to the nearest dollar, to provide a fund to pay bills of customers in tough financial straits - a case of "neighbors helping neighbors," said manager Terry McKinney.

For example, if a participating ratepayer's bill is $32.50, he will pay $33.

The extra 50 cents will be held in trust to be used by the Share program.

The average ratepayer who stays involved in the program will spend an estimated $6 per year, McKinney said.

Lump-sum contributions to the program also will be accepted. The Share program seeks 501(c)(3) status from the Internal Revenue Service, so donations will be tax deductible, he said.

Customers don't have to participate.

And some have already opted out. "It's taxation without representation," a Voice reporter heard a customer telling a utilities clerk recently. The clerk cheerfully told the woman how she could opt out of the program, and helped her fill out the card.

"Opt out" cards and information will be inserted in December bills. Cards can be returned to the office.

"People not wanting to contribute to the program also may contact Benton Utilities at any time and exercise their option to pull out of the program," McKinney

said.

Benton Utilities' 13,000 customers were automatically enrolled

in the voluntary program. Money started being deducted from the bills mailed in November.

A seven-member citizens committee will administer the trust fund.

Interested in serving? A letter explaining the applicant's qualifications for the panel and a resume should be faxed to 776-5954, or mailed to Benton Utilities, 1827 Dale St., Benton, AR 72015.

McKinney said the Share PrDonors will receive a summary of contributions in January and February bills each year, McKinney said.

Applications for assistance will be available beginning in March from the utilities office, or people may request a form by mail.

For more information on the program, visit Benton Utility's Internet site at www.benton. ar.gov/utility_dept/index.htm, or call call 776-5923.