HUNTINGTON BEACH
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Residents with good credit records who had to shell out a security deposit before the city would turn on their water have a nice surprise coming: Beginning immediately, that deposit, plus three years’ interest at 5.85%, will be credited to their account.
In 1989, the state made it illegal for cities to require utility deposits from credit-worthy residents. The law took effect in 1990, but city officials were not aware of it until August 1998.
City Treasurer Shari Freidenrich said those who have been living in the same place for at least a year will qualify for the refund. Others may request the refund by using a form available at City Hall.
Freidenrich estimates that the city “inadvertently” collected $1.2 million in deposits over the last eight years, funds that have accumulated $150,000 in interest.
Local regulations only allow interest-rebates going back three years.
Information: (714) 536-5919.
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