Lake Jackson raises meter-test fee as council formalizes testing procedure

The City of Lake Jackson on Nov. 17 approved a revised water meter testing policy that updates the fee structure and clarifies the testing process for residents who question meter accuracy.

Staff said the ordinance previously set a $2 fee for a meter test but that vendor and replacement costs have risen; staff reported vendors' bench-test pricing ranges from about $110 to $450 and that a replacement meter costs roughly $155. "The price right now is about a $110," a staff presenter said, explaining the city has often swapped meters rather than paid for testing.

Council and staff described a two-step response for disputed readings: an initial in‑field check using a data-reading device (the "hockey puck") to review recent consumption history — provided free to the resident — and, if the resident still disputes the reading, a third-party bench test. The city intends to pass the third-party test cost through to the resident if the test confirms the meter is accurate; if the meter is found faulty, the city will replace the meter and absorb the testing cost.

Council members discussed fairness for lower-income customers; staff said the testing fee could be split over six months under the newly adopted payment-plan policy. Council approved the policy change by motion.

What happens next: staff said they will implement the two-step procedure (field check followed by paid third-party testing if requested), add vendor pricing to procurement records, and include the testing fee on water bills when applicable.