Staff Writer

Qualified customers could get some help with their utility bills this winter.

Union City Council voted unanimously last week to make up to $30,000 available to the Salvation Army and Carolina Community Action for utility assistance during the winter. The allocation includes $10,000 from the city's Community Change program and, if necessary, $20,000 from its Utility Fund Retained Earnings. The money will be used to help cover utility bills received in January through April.

Finance director Walker Gallman said the Salvation Army and Carolina Community Action will determine which applicants qualify for assistance. Gallman said the city recommends that recipients be low-income and have a valid need. Once they determine an applicant qualifies for the assistance, the agencies will provide the city with a voucher listing the customer's name and an amount not to exceed $100 per customer per year.

Persons seeking assistance with their utility bill should make an appointment and bring in the following documents: