By Cindy Peterson
Leesburg Resident? How You Can Avoid Paying New Transaction Fees
In an attempt to alleviate the financial strain imposed by rising costs, the City of Leesburg has announced the introduction of transaction fees for all electronic utility payments, effective March 1, 2024. The decision comes after the city absorbed the expenses associated with processing electronic utility payments since August 2015, culminating in an estimated expenditure of over $450,000 for Fiscal Year 2024.
Under the new policy, Leesburg residents can anticipate convenience fees for electronic utility payments as follows:
- ACH/eCheck utility payments: $1.00 convenience fee
- Credit/debit card utility payments: $3.50 convenience fee
But there are a few ways you can avoid paying these fees.
1. Auto-Pay Option: Many residents have opted to sign up for the auto-pay option linked to their checking or savings accounts. This automated process ensures timely utility bill payments without incurring any extra transaction fees.
2. Paying in Person at City Hall: For those who prefer a personal touch, paying utility bills in person at Leesburg’s City Hall is an option. Cash and paper checks are accepted at City Hall without any convenience fees.
3. Cash Payments at AMSCOT Locations: Cash payments can be made at AMSCOT locations. AMSCOT outlets readily accept cash payments for utility bills without any additional charges.
The Customer Service Department can address any questions or concerns related to these new charges and help residents determine the most suitable payment option. They can be reached at 352-728-9800.
Originally from the small town of Berryville, Arkansas, Cindy has become a multimedia specialist in journalism, photography, videography, and video editing. She has a B.S. in Communications from the University of Central Arkansas and produces Style Magazine's Sports Hub Podcast and the Healthy Living Podcast. She also produces for Beacon College’s Telly Award-winning PBS show, “A World of Difference.” When she isn’t working, Cindy loves traveling the National Parks with her husband , Ryan, and son, David, photographing wildlife.
