To qualify for the low income discount, the low income discount application needs to be completed and notarized at City Hall along with verification of income. The notarization portion can be completed at City Hall, free of charge. All household income must be reported, including spouse or co-tenant income information. The total income cannot exceed 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines provided by ASPE each February. The current (2024) income limits are show below.

The "low income discount" application is only available at city hall. Contact utilityclerk@cityofkalama.com or 360-673-4554

If the application is approved, the current monthly discount inside city limits is $7.50 off the water portion of the bill and $15.50 off the sewer portion of the bill along with a $.50 discount on Storm water fees each month. The total discount for Inside City Limits is $23.50. The total monthly discount for outside city limits is $13.88 off the water portion of the bill. Applicants may also request a reduction in garbage service of one 32-gallon can emptied every other week. The discount for reduced garbage service is 50%of the minimum monthly garbage charge (currently a discount of $9.91 per month). If weekly service is required, no other discount is allowed. 

Once the application is approved, if circumstances improve and you no longer qualify for the discount you must contact City Hall immediately. If a violation is determined, the customer will be required to repay the amount of any discount along with 20% penalty.

The application and income verification must be provided each year in order for the discount to remain in effect.