HILO >> People who are behind on their sewer bills could soon find their water shut off on Hawaii’s Big Island.

The Hawaii Tribune-Herald reports that the local government is losing about $25,000 a month in unpaid sewer fees. Past-due bills have reached $1 million.

The Hawaii County Council advanced a bill that would require the county to give notice before the water is shut off.

Council members who were previously opposed to the bill advanced it after they were told the county has few options to collect money from people who refused to pay.

Some people who aren’t connected to the sewer system are charged monthly fee.

The board approved the measure on its first reading, and will likely vote on the bill again on Nov. 19.