City online payments likely by next week

McCOOK, Neb. -- The City of McCook is upgrading its credit card system and residents should soon be able to pay their utility bills online, for a fee. City staff is awaiting the arrival of new card reader equipment expected to arrive in the coming days and in time for at least a test of the new system before the end of the week.

The upgrades to the city's credit card hardware and software will slightly lower fees required for residents paying by credit card in person at the Municipal Center, in addition to providing online payment options for a higher fee amount.

Utilities Director Jesse Dutcher estimated an average $85 utility bill, paid via credit card, to require a $2.13 fee in person and a $4.22 fee for online payments.

Dutcher updated the McCook City Council on the upgrade process Monday evening and said the fees involved in the transaction process were only what was required by the credit card system software and hardware support companies.

Dutcher also said he anticipated the city to be able to accept E-check payments by the end of the year.