PILLAR: Vibrant
AGENDA DATE: August 25, 2026
COUNCIL DISTRICT(S): Citywide
DEPARTMENT: Office of Housing and Community Empowerment
PRIORITY: N/A
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SUBJECT
Title
Authorize (1) the implementation of the Energy and Utilities Assistance Program; (2) the acceptance of donations from energy and utility providers in an amount not to exceed $1,900,000.00 to provide temporary financial assistance to individuals and families who are experiencing a temporary financial crisis and who reside in the City of Dallas, as further described in the Program Statement attached as Exhibit A; (3) an increase in appropriations in an amount not to exceed $1,900,000.00 in the OCC Energy Assistance Fund; (4) the receipt and deposit of funds in an amount not to exceed $1,900,000.00 in the OCC Energy Assistance Fund; and (5) the execution of agreements with energy and utility providers to implement this program, and any and all documents required by the agreements - Not to exceed $1,900,000.00 - Financing: OCC Energy Assistance Fund
*In alignment with Drivers of Opportunity nexus.
Body
BACKGROUND
The Office of Housing and Community Empowerment (OHCE) provides utility assistance to individuals and families experiencing a temporary financial crisis in the City of Dallas (City). Since 2019, the City has periodically accepted private donations from energy and water providers to provide temporary financial relief to households most vulnerable to the high utility costs. The donations received from these providers are reserved for their customers. Customers experiencing difficulty in paying their utility bills have an option to reach out to the OHCE's community services intake line for assistance or apply in-person through social services provided at the West Dallas Multipurpose Center and the Martin Luther King Jr. Community Center. Provider rules limit how often the City may assist a customer within a 12-month period.
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