Streamlining Bill Payments with the City of Lacey’s New Online System

Paying bills can be a tedious task but the City of Lacey is aiming to make the process more convenient for utility customers. The city recently announced the launch of a new online payment portal that will modernize how residents pay their utility bills. This new system promises to save customers time while giving them more flexibility and control over their payments.

Why the Upgrade?

At the moment, the City of Lacey only takes payments and utility bills through the mail, the phone, and a few online options. But these methods can be time-consuming, restrictive, and inconvenient for customers in 2022. With busy lives, it’s not always possible to go to a physical location or wait on hold to talk to someone. Even the existing online payment system is outdated and clunky.

These problems will be solved by the new online portal, which lets customers see and change all of their account information and make payments online. The new digital features are in line with what people have come to expect from other parts of their lives, including paying their bills.

Key Features of the New Online System

The City of Lacey outlined several important features that will improve the bill payment experience

• Customer portal – Residents can log in to view balances, payment history, due dates, and other account details all in one place.

• Flexible payment options – In addition to credit/debit payments the portal will process e-checks, scheduled payments and autopay.

• Paperless billing – Customers can opt to receive emailed billing statements rather than mailed paper bills.

• Mobile access—The portal will be made to work best on smartphones and tablets so that customers can make payments while they’re out and about.

• Payment tracking – The portal will provide receipts and confirmations so customers can easily track payment status.

What Payments are Included?

The new online system will process payments for the City of Lacey’s primary utility services:

• Water
• Sewer
• Stormwater

Residents with accounts for any or all of these services will be able to view and pay their bills through the unified online portal.

When Will the New System Launch?

The City of Lacey stated that the new online payment portal is slated to launch soon. Customers can expect to receive more details in November 2022. This will likely arrive as an insert included with paper bills explaining the transition.

The city will also promote the new system through their website, social media, newsletters, and other communication channels. They aim to give residents ample notice and instructions before the system goes live.

How It Compares to Other Payment Options

The online portal will join existing in-person, phone, and mail payment options. The city recommends customers use the new digital system for maximum efficiency. However, they will continue offering the following ways to pay:

• By phone – Call the automated payment line at 360-491-5616.
• By mail – Send checks to the payment processing PO box.
• In-person – Visit the drop box at Lacey City Hall.

The online portal provides distinct advantages over these options in convenience and account management. But the city will maintain choices for customers who prefer alternative payment methods.

Ensuring an Easy Transition for Customers

Implementing a new payment system can cause confusion if not handled properly. The City of Lacey has a multifaceted plan to ensure customers transition smoothly:

• Informational materials will provide registration instructions and portal navigation guidance.
• Staff will be available by phone and email to answer customer questions.
• The existing payment options will remain active during the transition.
• The portal interface will be intuitive with familiar functions.
• Payment history will carry over so customers can pick up where they left off.

The city states that customer service is the top priority during this upgrade. They aim to proactively address any concerns and minimize disruptions throughout the process.

Why Bill Pay Reform Matters

At first glance, putting bills online may not seem like a major advancement. But optimizing this mundane task impacts residents in meaningful ways:

• Time savings – The new system significantly cuts time spent on bill management.
• Convenience – Customers can pay on their own schedule from anywhere.
• Money savings – Online payments avoid late fees, stamps, gas costs, etc.
• Security – Direct bank account or card payments are more secure than sending checks.
• Sustainability – Paperless billing decreases environmental impact.
• Accessibility – Digital functions assist customers who cannot use traditional options.

While seemingly minor, improvements in bill pay modernize a task that all residents must complete. The City of Lacey’s portal empowers customers and provides an accessible, eco-friendly service. Adopting user-friendly digital solutions is an important step for local governments as consumer technology advances.

Looking Ahead to a More Digital Lacey

The upcoming launch of the new online utility payment portal represents the City of Lacey’s broader efforts to modernize services through technology. As the city grows and evolves, officials seek to meet the digital needs and expectations of residents.

We can likely expect similar upgrades to other city functions in the future. Permit applications, transportation services, and community event look-ups are examples of areas ripe for online optimization. The utility payment portal marks one milestone on the road to a fully connected Lacey.

For now, the portal resolves one regular annoyance in residents’ lives – paying bills. Customers can soon manage this tedious task from their phones anywhere in just a few taps. The City of Lacey is removing friction and empowering locals through much-needed digitization.