Sick of mailing checks to the city for your bills? Online payment will be available soon after the New Year, according to the city's finance director. 

Paying bills online will be more convenient than sending a check or paying in person, which is why there will be a user fee associated with the online option. 

Finance Director John Baranek said he and a panel of employees decided to use Automated Business to provide the service after seeing demonstrations from several companies. 

Because of the convenience fee, the city will not incur any costs to provide the service. 

Sometime in 2012 when the system is up and running on the city's website, Baranek envisions utility bill payment will be the first service offered. Eventually, residents will also be able to pay their income tax and other fees online too. 

Not a big fan sending your credit card numbers over the Internet? An automated toll-free phone number will also be available to pay with a credit card. 

"We're trying to provide the complete package — user-friendly provide us with the most options for the citizens of stow to pay with credit card, debit card or echeck. These options will include internet and eventually point of sale which is in person. Availability of voice response on toll free number for payment processing. 

Also in the works is paperless billing. Residents will eventually be able to get their bills via email.