Weights and Measures seeks modest budget increase for testing supplies and equipment

Bob Markham, Department of Weights and Measures, told the county council he increased several lines in his 2026 budget to cover higher supply and equipment costs and to hedge against delays in state testing. He said the cost of approval decals “has went up a little bit,” and he increased an equipment line because checking a new prover now costs “12 to $1,300.”

The department inspects devices used in legal trade, from prescription scales to large rail scales. Markham said his three provers were due for certification in May, but the state metrology lab that certifies equipment “lost their certification” and had to be recertified by the National Institute of Standards and Technology. That delay, he said, has left local testing schedules uncertain and could require buying a replacement prover if one fails certification.

Markham described on-site inspections at retail fueling stations and other businesses, including identifying safety issues that can lead to red-tagging pumps. He said annual testing is required for many devices and that for very large rail scales the county must bring in outside certified equipment and observers.

The request is limited: Markham asked only to bump the decals and equipment lines so funds are available if the state lab’s backlog or failed equipment force a purchase. He said he enjoys the work but that each year brings different problems at individual stations.

If council members want more detail, Markham remains available to explain which equipment and line items would be used to cover specific testing or replacement costs.