BISHOP, Tx — In the next few weeks, Bishop neighbors may notice work crews in their front yards as the City of Bishop replaces old water meters with new, smart meters, following an idea proposed eight months ago.
“In smaller communities, infrastructure is aging. Water leaks occur in the summer and winter as the weather changes,” said Sal Ochoa, Bishop’s city clerk.
The old water meters were about 10 to 20 years old. Ochoa said the new meters will have ultrasonic technology that will provide more accurate readings. The old meters provided 96% accuracy, the new ones will provide 99 to 100% accuracy. And while the number may not seem like much of a difference, Ochoa said it could make a big difference.
“Currently, our staffing level in our public works department is about six teams. These new water meters will give us the ability to do remote readings so we can use those staff to do other things we need to do,” Ochoa said.
The new smart water meters detect leaks before they become a major problem. They register whether a leak comes from the city or from residents, determine when water consumption is highest and notify the building authority if someone tampers with the meter.
The project will cost the city over $800,000. Ochoa said they are financing it through a bank and will also look to increased revenue from the new meters to help pay for the project. Residents may also have to expect a slightly higher water bill.
Michael Elizondo, who has lived in Bishop his entire life, said he wouldn’t mind the slight increase in his water bill if all his neighbors benefited.
“I think it’s very beneficial for everyone on the block, especially this side of town, because this side of town doesn’t get a lot of attention. I think it’s going to be worth the money. I think the money will go toward something better,” Elizondo said.
Elizondo’s grandmother lives on the same street. They recently had their first water damage incident.
“The water shot into a ditch, but after about two hours it stopped,” Elizondo said.
The new smart meters should last about 20 years. Elizondo said he has no plans to leave Bishop so he can see the lifespan of the water meters.
“These meters have been in use for so long. They’re already rusted. The longer the lifespan, the better,” Elizondo said.
The project is expected to be completed in about six weeks. Workers will begin installing meters in the west of the city and then move east.
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