Bernburg/SLK. The Salzlandkreis District Public Utility (KWB) is currently sending out around 15,500 reminders. These are being sent to households that have not paid their waste collection charges, or have not paid them in full. This has been highlighted by the utility’s manager, Dirk Trappe. This is the second wave of reminders this year.
Back in May, KWB had sent out a first round of reminders for outstanding payments. Subsequently, considerable sums of outstanding fees were received. “The majority of those contacted paid immediately after receiving the reminder. This shows us that we are on the right track,” says operations manager Dirk Trappe.
Reason for the wave of reminders: Following an external audit, KWB has overhauled its debt management system. The aim is to gradually reduce the backlog of outstanding debts.
The KWB uses waste collection charges to fund a reliable waste disposal service in the Salzlandkreis. Any shortfall is borne by the community as a whole and thus by all citizens who pay their charges on time. “The vast majority of households pay on time. We have a duty to them to consistently collect outstanding debts,” said Trappe. Ultimately, the costs are calculated collectively for all contributors.
The KWB is aware that a reminder may raise questions or cause concern. Anyone who is unsure or needs support should contact the fees office at an early stage. Payment by instalments, for example, is an option. “If you get in touch with us, we’ll find a solution,” says Trappe. If neither a payment nor a response is received, the KWB will initiate enforcement proceedings.
Information and contact details are available at www.kwb-slk.de and on the Waste App.