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Commission approves AMI change orders, extends water meter project after field issues leave 800 meters to finish
Summary
City staff told the commission that Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) installation has about 800 meters remaining and that field conditions and varied meter sizes require extra work. The commission approved change orders totaling approximately $498,744 (including contingency) and a six‑month schedule extension to finish the project.
The Deerfield Beach City Commission approved change orders and schedule adjustments for the city's Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) water meter project, authorizing additional funds and a six‑month extension to complete remaining installations.
Project background and update: Staff reported that the original meter inventory in 2022 was 12,002 meters and that the current total has grown to 13,162 because of new buildings and varied account types. Eric Power, deputy manager and interim environmental services director, said about 800 meters still require field work due to unexpected meter sizes, private property challenges and other installation complications.
Costs and schedule: The council approved change order amounts reflected in the agenda: an increase of $453,404 with a 10% contingency ($45,340) for a change order total not to exceed $498,744; staff said the additional funding and time will allow completion of the remaining meters and extend project completion to August 27, 2026. Power said the city had previously authorized annual increases during the multi‑year rollout and that the change order consolidates the remaining funding and timeframe.
Customer features and enrollment: AMI provides near real‑time water usage data to customers who register; staff said the city will reengage marketing and incentives after completion to encourage residents and businesses to register for leak detection and alerts. The city is offering online instructions (search "AMI" on the city website) and will continue mailed notices for those who do not register.
Questions and follow-up: Commissioners asked about leak risks during installation and verification procedures: staff said a vendor installs meters and city staff inspect each installation afterwards. The commission asked how many customers still receive county water bills; staff said about one‑third of city residents remain on Broward County water service and that will not change under the AMI program.
Outcome: The commission approved the change orders and schedule extension by roll call. Staff said it will return with a follow‑up to encourage resident registration and consider billing process improvements (such as encouraging automatic billing and reducing mailed statements).
