Habersham EMC and its subsidiary, Trailwave Fiber, are responding to the COVID-19 pandemic by temporarily suspending late fees and disconnects for nonpayment.
The policy applies to all residential and business accounts in HEMC’s six-county service area in Northeast Georgia until further notice.
In announcing the move, the local cooperative said, “We understand many of our members have had to change their daily routines due to COVID-19 and may face financial hardships as a result.” Suspending nonpayment penalties is intended to “ease some of the stress” members are facing “during this uncertain time.”
“Electricity has an essential role in preventing the spread of the virus and we want to do our part to help our members during this challenging time,” says Habersham EMC Acting CEO and Trailwave Chief Operating Officer Whit Hollowell. He also acknowledges “how critical broadband service is to preventing the spread of the virus while subscribers learn and work at home.”
HEMC offices in Clarkesville and Cleveland remain open under normal operating hours. Hollowell says they are monitoring the situation and will make adjustments as needed based on CDC guidelines. Members can take care of many business-related topics by phone, online, or through the SmartHub app.
