By Tiffany Flournoy

CULLEN, La. — A notice sent to residents by the Town of Cullen outlines sweeping changes to water billing procedures and service policies, including stricter deadlines, limited payment hours and an end to payment arrangements and all reportedly without council approval.

The letter, dated April 6 , states that Town Hall’s payment window will now be open only on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Residents are encouraged to use newly designated drop boxes, including a drive-thru option, to submit payments outside those hours. According to the town’s website, bills may also be paid online. 
Under the updated policy, water bills are due by the 17th of each month, with a $25 late fee applied after the deadline. Service disconnections are scheduled for the 25th of each month for nonpayment.

The notice emphasizes that “no extensions will be granted” and states that payment arrangements are no longer allowed, citing guidance from the Louisiana Legislative Auditor. Residents whose service is disconnected must pay a $50 reconnect fee along with the full past-due balance before service is restored.

The letter also details strict reconnection procedures, including a 3:30 p.m. cutoff for same-day service on weekdays and delays for payments made later in the week. It further warns residents not to contact water operators after hours for reconnection and cautions that unauthorized restoration of service will be treated as theft, subject to legal action.

Alderwoman Bianchi Veal said the changes were not presented to or discussed with the council prior to the notices being distributed to residents.”

These changes, with the office being open only two days a week, have not been presented or discussed with the council,” Veal said. “It’s just another illustration of how the mayor just does whatever he feels like.”

It is unclear whether the changes received formal approval by the board of alderwomen. In Louisiana municipalities, councils generally establish utility fees, billing policies and service rules, while mayors manage daily operations. No ordinance or recorded vote authorizing the updated deadlines, penalties or enforcement provisions has been identified, raising questions about whether the measures were enacted outside the board’s  process.

The town’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 27 at 6 p.m. at town hall located at 405 Coyle Ave.