Community Impact Service Program

If you have received a City of Dubuque Utility Billing Disconnect Notice due to financial challenges, this program may help you get back on track.

Instead of only paying fines and fees, you can choose to give back to the community through volunteer service opportunities with local nonprofits, neighborhood projects, and City departments.

By participating, you reduce your utility balance while making a positive impact on the community. This program is designed to support individuals and families experiencing financial hardship by offering empowering volunteer and professional development opportunities.

Who Should Apply?

• City of Dubuque residents
• Current City utility billing customers with an outstanding balance
• Residents enrolled in, or eligible for, government assistance programs such as SNAP or the Housing Choice Voucher Program (Section 8)
• Residents willing to volunteer their time

How Does It Work?

Your required community service hours are based on your utility billing balance divided by the value of a service hour ($29.96/hour).

• Minimum requirement: 2 hours of service per week
• Opportunities include: volunteering with City programs, local nonprofits, and professional development or empowerment activities
• Participants are also connected with human services and community resources to support long-term success

Example Calculation
If your utility billing total balance is $500:

• $500 / $29.96 = 16 hours and 41 minutes of volunteer service

You must complete at least 2 hours of volunteer service per week until the balance is met.