Villa Rica may charge fees for credit card utility payments

VILLA RICA — Restaurants and shops do it, and now the city of Villa Rica is considering charging transaction fees for utility payments made by debit or credit card.

What’s happening: The city discussed the proposal at a work session Oct. 6. Under the plan, customers who pay their utility bills by debit or credit card would be charged 2.6% of the transaction with a minimum of $2. Customers who pay by ACH bank transfer would not be charged, as the city plans to keep absorbing those processing costs.

Why now: Interim finance director Amanda Long said credit card processing fees have gone up drastically over the last few years. Mayor Leslie McPherson described the charge as a convenience fee for the option to pay by card.

The concern: Councilwoman Dominique Conteh raised concerns about the impact on senior citizens living on a fixed income. Long said seniors can still come in person to pay by check or cash.

What’s next: The city council is expected to vote on the measure at the October 13 city council meeting.

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