–Officials with the City of Algona are warning residents of fraudulent emails that are seeking payment for different services.
In a news release, officials say emails have been received that appear to be from city staff, requesting payment for applications to the board of adjustment and site planning. While the emails look authentic, officials say there are ways to prove they are a scam.
If you receive an email like this, remember to check the email address, as emails from the city will not come from a Gmail account, or other free email services like Yahoo or Hotmail. Emails from staff at City Hall will come from an email address ending with @algonaiowa.gov.
Also, the city does not utilize email billing or request payments through wire transfer. Online payments are available for Algona Recreation Department activities and park shelters, but those payments would be completed on the website without an email request. Payment requests, building permits, nuisance abatements and other official communication that would require payment are typically sent through the mail or handled in person, and would not be sent via email or text message.
Residents who would like to confirm a bill or payment request can always contact city hall by calling 515-295-2411 Monday-Friday between 7:30AM-4:30 PM.
