Spokane County is suspending late fees, penalties and interest on unpaid sewer and solid waste bills until the end of May to give relief to those facing financial hardship from closures caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Spokane County Commissioners unanimously voted for the measure.

During an average month, the county’s Environmental Services Department collects approximately $55,000 in late fees and penalties. Suspending fees for three months could mean a $165,000 loss in revenue for the county, a department news release said.

The city of Spokane announced it was suspending water shutoffs and late fees on March 16 to give relief to those facing financial hardship.