Council adopts 9,000‑cubic‑foot minimum for unmetered well users in sewer billing

The Coventry Town Council on June 9 approved Resolution 2026‑59, setting a 9,000 cubic‑foot annual minimum for unmetered well users as the basis for sewer billing. Staff said the change is intended to align Coventry’s billing method with West Warwick and to avoid revenue shortfalls if unmetered wells discharge more water into the sewer system than the town currently assumes.

A town presenter explained the 9,000 figure as a household‑usage estimate derived from per‑person daily usage scaled to a two‑bedroom household, noting that a three‑bedroom household could use an estimated 11,636 cubic feet annually. The council discussed options for residents to install deduct meters if they believe they use less than the minimum; staff estimated meter installation costs at about $700–$800 and noted meters often pay for themselves over a few years if usage is low.

Councilman Hull asked whether the fee functioned as a penalty for well owners; staff said the policy gives well users the option to meter usage to avoid the minimum. Councilwoman Ayon moved approval; the motion carried by voice vote.

The town will provide informational materials on meter options and the waiver/installation process.

Speakers quoted here are staff presenting the fee structure and councilmembers during deliberation.