Public Service Committee abates full charge for 38 Foster Court after missing meter prevents testing

The Gardner City Public Service Committee voted unanimously April 16 to abate a customer’s water/sewer charge for 38 Foster Court after Department of Public Works Director Arnold said the removed old meter is no longer in the city’s possession and therefore cannot be tested.

Director Arnold told the committee the city “turned in all our meters and we ended up getting a scrap metal, so we no longer have that meter,” and that without the physical device staff “can't prove whether it worked or not.” He recommended abating the full amount “just to not look like I can't… we can't prove that old meter.”

Committee discussion focused on whether to abate water, sewer, or both. Committee members noted a prior spike in usage that appeared to correct after a new meter was installed and asked for a breakdown; officials referenced an amount discussed in the meeting of about $1,100. Councilor (speaker 2) moved to abate the full amount as recommended by Director Arnold; the motion was seconded and carried on unanimous voice vote.

Under the city ordinance cited during the meeting the committee’s determination is final and does not carry a further appeal. Members also acknowledged a policy gap exposed by the case: several councilors said the city should retain meters when an abatement is requested so the device can be tested before disposal. Director Arnold said he would instruct staff to hold meters and follow up on process changes.

The committee closed the item and moved on to other departmental updates. The full abatement was recorded in the meeting minutes and will be reflected in departmental records.