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Council lays over ordinance to align second‑meter charge with utility tariff
Summary
Council held first reading and laid over an ordinance to amend code language about charges for second water meters so it aligns with the utility fee schedule and tariff; staff said portable meters remain available and the item will return for further consideration.
The Beloit City Council held first reading and laid over Ordinance No. 3890, which would amend Section 29.05(3)(b) of the city code to make the rule about charges for a second meter consistent with the utility fee schedule and the water utility tariff on file with the Public Service Commission.
Staff said the current ordinance states there is no fee for a second meter — commonly used for irrigation or pool filling and intended to reduce sewer charges — but the city’s fee schedule and utility rate tariff require customers to pay for a second meter. The proposed change is housekeeping to reconcile the written code with the fee schedule and tariff. Staff noted customers can still rent a temporary “clear water” portable meter for short-term uses such as filling a pool, and that permanent second meters are optional, not mandated by the city’s plumbing code.
The council moved and seconded a motion to lay the item over for further consideration; Councilor Dinge moved and Councilor Blakely seconded the motion. Councilors asked clarifying questions about the availability of portable meters and whether permanent second meters are part of the plumbing code; staff confirmed portable meters remain available and that installation of a permanent second meter is an option rather than a requirement.
No fee change was adopted at the meeting; staff indicated the ordinance amendment is intended to align city code language with existing tariff language and the fee schedule and will return to the council for further action.
