Public Works proposes new hydrant meter policy with $3,500 deposit, contractor-only eligibility

Alice Orman of Public Works presented a proposed hydrant meter rental policy intended to formalize eligibility, fees, deposit and insurance requirements for hydrant meters.

Orman said the city previously lacked a formal policy and that the fees charged to date did not cover replacement costs when meters were lost, stolen or damaged. She said meter calibration this year revealed two meters needed replacement and that the recommended deposit is about $3,500 to reflect the new meter cost. "We haven't really had a formal hydrant meter rental policy," Orman said, adding that the policy would require insurance and allow Public Works to review and approve proposed hydrant locations so meters are not attached to inappropriate hydrants.

Council clarifying questions confirmed the policy is intended for qualified contractors rather than homeowners filling private pools and that permanent water service is required for continued use at a business. The council placed the policy for action at next week's council meeting.