ST. CHARLES – Those owing money to the city of St. Charles may soon have their debt withheld from payments they get from the state.

The City Council this month approved St. Charles’ participation in the statewide Local Debt Recovery Program operated through the state comptroller’s office. The law that created this program took effect Jan. 1.

“We do have our share of debt that goes uncollected, so it’s something that I think we could really benefit from this program,” said Julie Herr, assistant finance director.