Welland property owners can now manage their tax and water accounts online at any hour, following the launch of a new secure platform the city calls Virtual City Hall. The service also allows residents to pay their bills by credit card over the internet for the first time.
According to a City of Welland news release issued Wednesday, the portal gives users the ability to review balances, view billing and payment history, and access key account information from a computer or mobile device, whether at home, at work or on the go.
"Greater flexibility and control"
City treasurer Melanie Steele said the platform is designed to fit residents' schedules.
In the fast-paced world we live in, Virtual City Hall gives residents greater flexibility and control when managing their tax and water accounts. Residents can access information and complete transactions whenever it is convenient for them through a secure platform. It's an efficient, customer-focused tool that makes it easier to stay connected to their accounts.
Steele made the comments in the City of Welland news release announcing the launch.
How to sign up
Property owners who want to create an account will need an email address, their tax roll number or water account number, and the account holder name exactly as it appears on their bill. The city says that information can be found on a recent tax or water bill.
The release also highlights an e-billing option. Residents who enroll can download and print copies of their bills free of charge, giving them quick access to records while cutting paper use and removing reprint fees. Those who switch to e-billing will no longer receive paper bills in the mail.
Part of broader customer service push
The city describes the launch as part of its Strategic Plan goal of setting a new benchmark for customer service, by making account information and payment options easier to reach while reducing administrative barriers for residents.
Property owners can register and find more details by visiting the Virtual City Hall website at vch.welland.ca.
Media inquiries can be directed to Paul Orlando, communications specialist, at 905-735-1700 ext. 2133 or paul.orlando@welland.ca.
