H3. Low-Income Program Contract
City of Kalispell
Post Office Box 1997 - Kalispell, Montana 59903-1997
Telephone (406) 758-7000 Fax - (406) 758-7758
REPORT TO: Doug Russell, City Manager
FROM: Rick Wills, Finance Director
SUBJECT: Low-Income Home Water Assistance Program Contract
MEETING DATE: November 1, 2021
BACKGROUND: The Department of Public Health and Human Services has developed a
temporary emergency Low-Income Home Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) using American
Rescue Plan Act funding. This program will provide low-income households assistance in paying
their water and wastewater bills. Funds are sent directly to Public Water System (PWS) operators to
be credited to income eligible household accounts to reduce arrearages, prevent shutoffs, and reduce
monthly rates.
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Kalispell City Council approve the
contract with the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services. The contract is for
the period October 1, 2021, through September 30, 2023, and will allow the City of Kalispell to
accept direct payments from the Montana DPHHS to be applied to eligible households’ accounts.
ATTACHMENTS: Department of Public Health and Human Services application and
Contract.