By Kellah Lavoie

La Loche residents to pay water or lose cable

Feb 17, 2011 | 3:49 PM

The Village of La Loche is putting their foot down.

Mayor Georgina Jolibois, said 15 to 20 per cent of people are not paying their sewer and water.

People have arrears, and while she calls it a small percentage, things need to change.

The village council plans to shut off cable service to those who are not paying their sewer and water bill.

“What we have done as a council is developed a strategy, CHPN radio station (the cable company) is owned by the Northern Village of La Loche, water and sewer is something we are responsible for in the community,” she said.

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Each month residents are expected to pay $45 for their cable and $40 for sewer and water. While the cable bills are being paid, the latter is left aside.

She said the village wants $40 a month for those owing to be added to the $85 that is due for the two each month.

“If they do not pay on top of their bills, the $40, we are going after their cable, to cut the cable off instead of the water,” she said.

The issue has been in front of the village council for the last couple of meetings and they had to come up with a decision.

“It is easier to go after cable, water is a necessity and it is winter. It would be an inconvenience to cut off the water at any time,” Jolibois said.

The council has not had anyone come forward and dispute the decision and they welcome residents into their meetings to discuss such matters.

Those who are behind on their bills and are not willing to pay the extra $40 will lose their cable on March 1.

She said it should give people lots of warning.

klavoie@panow.com