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Council hears water‑meter replacements and persistent force‑main problems; staff seeks clearer revenue projection
Summary
Finance and utility staff warned that water revenue projections need one more month of data; meter replacement costs and a problematic 14‑inch force main were highlighted, and staff proposed a vacuum truck for sewer maintenance and set aside capital for force‑main work.
City staff told the council they are still finalizing projected water and sewer revenues and need another month of bills to refine estimates and rate modeling. Staff also described extensive meter replacement needs and an aging force main that may require a major capital fix.
Staff said they have identified about 520 meters on a reread list and that replacing just the meter "head" is a lower‑cost option (quoted at about $2.40 per head) versus buying complete meters. "If you get just the head of the meter, it is $2.40 a piece," the presenter said, recommending head‑only replacements where appropriate to reduce capital outlay.
On the sewer side, utility staff urged council consideration of a vacuum (hydro) truck to clean gravity lines and lift stations that have not been comprehensively cleared since a major storm. Staff said the cost of contractor rental for vacuum services adds to operating expense and that some capital set‑asides exist but major work — notably replacing parts of the 14‑inch force main — could require contracted replacement.
Next steps: staff will refine the water‑sales projection once an additional month of billing is available and will bring clearer capital requests and justifications for any force‑main or vacuum‑truck purchases to the next budget meeting. No formal action was taken this session.
Attribution note: quotes and data points in this article are directly taken from the meeting transcript and attributed to the meeting presenter and council members.
