The City of Kenosha is alerting residents, property owners, and businesses to fraudulent invoices that falsely claim to be issued by the city’s “Planning Commission” and request payment.
The fake invoices reference processing fees, permits, and planning-related work that was never authorized or completed. They often include fabricated due dates and direct recipients to send payment to unauthorized individuals or entities via wire transfer. Some of the documents use official-looking city logos or formatting in an attempt to appear legitimate.
The City Plan Commission does not issue invoices for services. All emails from the City of Kenosha end with “@kenosha.org.”
“The public is encouraged to question any invoice they were not expecting,” said City Administrator John Morrissey. “Fraud prevention starts with diligence; any invoice representing the City of Kenosha should be carefully reviewed and verified. Verifying before payment helps prevent fraud and protects your finances.”
Common signs of a fake invoice include:
- References to unauthorized zoning, inspection, or permit-related work.
- Pressure to pay immediately based on a false deadline and with wire transfers.
- Payment instructions listing unfamiliar addresses or accounts.
- Suspicious contact information not affiliated with the City of Kenosha.
Anyone who receives a suspicious invoice should:
- Avoid making any payments.
- Contact the City of Kenosha Department of City Development at 262-653-4030.
- Report the incident to the Kenosha Police Department non-emergency line at 262-656-1234.
- The city urges all residents to remain alert to potential fraud.
- Contact the city department mentioned in a suspicious invoice or letter.
