Installation of Digital Water Meters Nears Completion

GLEASON (January 21) — Water customers will soon have their water meters automatically read via radio signals on the 15th of each month, eliminating the need for city workers to manually read each meter.

Each meter will report the customer’s water usage to a company based in Benton, Kentucky, which will print and mail the monthly bills.

Mayor Charles Anderson announced that the installation of the new meters is 90 percent complete, with the work being done by local contractor, BAM, who submitted the lone bid for the installation. He informed the City Council, including several newly elected members, that the new meters will help reduce unmetered water usage and reduce water loss. This project was partially funded through the federal American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds, which were approved during the Biden administration as part of post-COVID relief efforts.

Council member were informed that some residents are inadvertently driving over the meters, causing damage to their internal mechanisms. The cost of repairs for damaged meters will be assessed to the one causing the damage.

The city is also working to improve its wastewater (sewer) system. Mayor Anderson stated that the rehabilitation project is being undertaken by Gulf Coast Underground.

A survey is being distributed to each of the 670 water customers, with the goal of collecting at least 340 completed surveys to qualify for additional grant funds.

The rental fee for the city’s Community Center has increased to $150 per day, up from the previous rate of a $50 refundable deposit and $50 for daily use. Mayor Anderson explained that costs for cleaning, utilities, insurance, and providing toiletries have increased. He also noted that some renters are less considerate than others in caring for the facility.

Police Chief Marcus Hopper reported that the GMC Canyon SUV patrol vehicle had significant problems and is being returned to the manufacturer for a refund. The proceeds from this will be sufficient to purchase at least one new patrol sedan. He also requested that the Council raise the city court fees by $25, due to increased costs for computer software. The current fee is $110. The Council will discuss this proposed increase in a future meeting.

The next Council meeting is February 24 at 7 p.m. at City Hall.