These devices, known as “fireflies”, that enable a water meter reader to record usage levels into a computer while driving nearby in a vehicle.JASPER, Tenn. — City administrators have taken the initial steps in a massive project to automate the town’s water meter reading duties.
The Jasper Board of Mayor and Aldermen unanimously approved last week the purchase of three handheld Badger water meter reading devices for $14,300 from United Utilities Inc. in Smyrna, Tenn.
Gary Cosby of CTI Engineers Inc. said the equipment will allow city workers to complete manual water meter readings while Jasper begins the slow and costly process of purchasing radio meters that will relay and transmit the information automatically to the water company.
Water meter reading takes a great deal of time and manpower away from other critical areas, officials said, and there are 3,900 meters in Jasper.
The board had the option of hiring a company to purchase, install and maintain everything the town needs for an estimated $2.5 million, Cosby said.