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Sarasota approves final step of automated meter rollout, authorizes network service contract
Summary
The commission authorized a network-as-a-service agreement to complete the city's automated meter infrastructure (AMI) rollout, allowing remote reads, leak detection and customer alerts. Staff emphasized public outreach and that the upgrade will repurpose meter-reading staff toward maintenance.
The City Commission voted unanimously on Jan. 5 to approve a network-as-a-service agreement with Ferguson to complete the final step of the city’s automated meter infrastructure (AMI) rollout.
Utility Director Verne Hall said the proposal replaces legacy automated meter-reading hardware and completes a four-step modernization: previously approved meter purchases, meter-box upgrades and the installation contractor. The AMI network will enable remote reads, alarms for unusual usage that can indicate leaks, and allow customers to set usage alerts for their accounts.
"Once the network is constructed and fully functional we can read those meters remotely," Hall said, adding that the new system will support more efficient leak detection and faster response to unusual consumption events.
Commissioners focused on outreach to residents so that contractors working in neighborhoods would not cause alarm. Hall said the utility will publish route notices and provide a contractor phone number for questions. Regarding staffing, Hall said the city does not expect head-count reductions; instead, the two meter-reading staff will be repurposed to maintenance and field response duties.
The motion to approve the network-as-a-service agreement passed unanimously.
