As we continue to monitor the situation with COVID-19 and navigate this unprecedented event, we are implementing changes to our business processes. This is a fluid situation. Staff is meeting regularly and could make additional changes following any new developments.
Unable to Pay Bill by 7/2: What To Do
Medina EC plans to resume disconnecting members for nonpayment on July 1. We are asking members who have been financially impacted by COVID-19 and are unable to pay the amount owed on their account by that date to contact our offices. Our representatives will look at your account and develop a payment plan that fits your needs. When disconnections begin on 7/2, accounts with payment plans and notes will not be subject to disconnection. It is very important to communicate with our staff so we can note your account and work with you. You can contact us at Info@MedinaEC.org or at 1-866-MEC-ELEC (632-3532).
Members who have past due amounts on their account will begin getting letters and phone calls on June 8 as reminders.
- 6/1 - Drive-throughs will open to the public. Lobbies remain closed at this time.
- 4/28 - Decision made to postpone $35 minimum for general service rate (membership was notified in March and April Texas Co-op Power magazine). Instead of being effective 5/1, it will be effective 1/1/2021.
- 4/3 - Drive-throughs closed to the public as of 5 p.m. Drop boxes will continue to stay open at this time. Decision made to shift crews away from new construction jobs, since it is difficult for them to practice recommended social distancing precautions during these jobs. Read more about these decisions here.
- 3/20 - Decision made to postpone $35 minimum for general service rate (membership was notified in March and April Texas Co-op Power magazine). Instead of being effective 5/1, it will be effective 7/1 unless conditions at that time warrant a further postponement of the change.
- 3/19 - Disconnections and late fees are suspended until July 1, at which time staff will reassess. Read more about that decision here. Members will still be responsible for any amounts due on their accounts.
- If you are struggling to pay your bill, please contact our office. There are also community agencies that may be able to help.
- 3/16 - Decision made to close to the office lobbies to the public as of 5 p.m. Drive through and drop boxes will continue to stay open at this time. Read more about that decision here.
- Members can take advantage of options to pay their bill over our website or phone.
- 3/12 - Decision made to scale back employee travel between offices and cancel all public appearances for staff. Limiting in-person meetings.
Preparation For Emergencies
Medina EC has an Emergency Operations Plan, which we review annually and use to guide us in situations such as this. It addresses various scenarios that could impact our business and members, including a pandemic. This plan is designed to help ensure that your electric co-op continues to provide reliable electricity during a business continuity event. It includes preparations to operate with a smaller workforce, a threatened supply chain and limited support services.
Be On Guard For Scammers
Members should also be on the lookout for suspicious emails, phone calls or persons impersonating business employees. Scammers are likely to take advantage of this opportunity, since households are otherwise preoccupied. If you get a call from someone claiming to represent Medina EC and they demand immediate payment or make threats, hang up and contact our office. We will verify the status of your account.
Additional COVID-19 Resources
By signing up for this free program, the business can promote any specials they are willing to offer cardholders and the cooperative will promote the business on our social media platforms.
This card can be used for members to get discounts on prescriptions and certain medical appointments, if you have lost your insurance.
Accurate Information Sources
To ensure we have accurate information from professionals, we are monitoring news from the CDC and Texas Health and Human Services. We encourage members to also use these sources, since the spread of misinformation can be dangerous. If you have concerns you may be sick, call and speak to your healthcare provider.