Those who rent property in the City of Naperville won’t see a return of their utility deposits as they have in the past.

The city council voted unanimously Tuesday night to hold utility deposits of renters, citing the economic downturn has been the source of a 25 percent increase in service cuts due to non-payment since 2007. City documents also indicated Naperville lost $189,000 due to non-payments in 2009, the vast majority from rental properties.

In the past the $100 deposit for water and $150 deposit for electrical service was returned to customers after a 24-month period of on time and correct payments. But the vote means property owners will not see a return on their deposits until their rental agreements expire, and tenants can prove they are in good standing with the city.

Director of Finance Karen DeAngelis said single-family homes are not a part of the change in the ordinance, as the city can put a lien on the property when there is a delinquent utility bill.

“The action on the ordinance will allow the city to collect the money much faster (from rental properties),” she said.

The ordinance goes into effect Nov. 1, and will affect current residents. Those who currently rent in Naperville will have their deposits held. More