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County official urges Horseheads residents on well water to install certified meters to reduce sewer bills
Summary
Officials told residents served by sewer districts but using private wells that they can install certified meters to bill sewer charges by actual use instead of an automatic 60,000-gallon assumption, and outlined steps and timing to avoid billing discrepancies.
A county official told the Chemung County meeting that residents who are served by a sewer district but use private wells can install certified meters to have sewer charges based on actual water use rather than the automatic 60,000-gallon charge often applied for a family of four.
Why it matters: Several residents in the Horseheads area have reported elevated sewer bills; staff said installing an approved meter can reduce charges if residents submit meter readings in advance of billing.
At the meeting a county official explained the option and the process. The official said the sewer district charges are often based on an assumed usage of about 60,000 gallons — roughly the typical use for a family of four — and offered examples of recent high bills, including one for about $1,000 and another for $914. He said residents may purchase and have a certified meter installed by an approved contractor and then provide meter readings to the sewer district.
Another official cautioned that the sewer district must approve the meter type and the installer; residents should contact the sewer district directly rather than installing a meter purchased off-the-shelf. The meeting record notes that meters and installation must be approved in advance to ensure readings are accepted and reflected on the next bill — residents must submit the information "in advance of the bill." County officials said they will work to communicate the procedure to the public.
No vote was taken; the item was shared as informational and county staff recommended outreach to affected residents.
