Council raises meter installation charges, updates fee schedule

On April 19 the Fountain Green City Council approved updates to the city fee schedule, including higher charges for new water meter installations to prevent the city from subsidizing equipment costs.

Staff reported that current billing for meter installations did not cover the city’s purchase price for meters and recommended raising charges to match vendor costs. The council amended the schedule and voted to increase the 3/4-inch meter installation fee to $450 and the 1-inch meter fee to $650.

The fee schedule package also included updates to subdivision application fees (simplified categories for 10 or fewer lots and 11-plus lots) and a note that engineering fees for subdivisions will be billed by the engineering firm and reimbursed to the city. Councilmembers discussed the need for a deposit or estimate so applicants understand engineering costs.

The council also approved payment of city bills as part of the consent actions.

Council members said the adjustments are intended to stop recurring losses on utility equipment installations and to provide a modest cushion to cover administration costs.