County approves $425K for automated water meter replacement to enhance leak detection

Cowlitz County is set to enhance its water management system significantly after the County Commissioners approved a bid to replace nearly all residential water meters with advanced, efficient models during their regular public meeting on February 4, 2025. The decision aims to improve accuracy in water readings and leak detection, ultimately benefiting residents by providing more reliable billing and reducing unexpected high water bills.

The new meters will feature Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) technology, allowing for automatic readings without the need for manual checks. This change addresses ongoing issues with the current manual reading contractor, which has struggled to provide accurate data, leading to discrepancies in billing. The county has conducted extensive audits over the past year to ensure accurate readings, and the new system is expected to streamline this process.

The selected vendor, Correct Equipment, will provide the new meters at a cost of $425,567. However, the actual expenditure may be lower than initially projected, as the company can retrofit some existing meters with new components rather than replacing them entirely. This approach not only saves costs but also minimizes waste.

In addition to improved accuracy, the new system will enhance leak detection capabilities. Currently, leaks can go undetected for up to 45 days, potentially resulting in high bills for residents. The new meters will allow for more frequent readings, enabling quicker identification of leaks and timely notifications to customers.

The commissioners emphasized the importance of this upgrade, noting that approximately two-thirds of the current meters are over ten years old, which does not meet health department guidelines. The new meters come with warranties of up to 20 years, ensuring long-term reliability.

Furthermore, the new system will include a customer-facing portal, allowing residents to monitor their water usage in real-time, reducing the wait time for monthly bills and enhancing transparency.

The approval of this bid marks a significant step forward in Cowlitz County's commitment to providing efficient and reliable water services to its residents, with the implementation expected to yield both immediate and long-term benefits.