Burnsville's Water Meter Project: What Residents Should Know

A two-year, $7.4 million project is currently underway in Burnsville to replace all of the water meters in city homes and businesses – approximately 16,700 in total. Since the early 2000s, all Burnsville residences and businesses have been equipped with automated water meters, according to city officials.

Rather than needing a “meter reader” to physically read meters – or asking residents to self-report their meter readings – the system automatically transmits data to a utility worker driving through city streets.

The new meters will allow for two-way communications between Burnsville’s utilities staff and the meter, sending data directly to the utility system. This technology will eliminate the need for a utility worker to drive through the streets to collect water usage data, according to a news release.

In addition to being more efficient for reading/billing, city officials say the new meters will have a 20-year life expectancy and provide real-time data on water usage/leaks.

The city is working with HD Supply Waterworks and Utiliuse to purchase and install new Sensus water meters. Residents and businesses will receive a postcard notification from the city or Utiliuse at least 30 days before installers will be in their neighborhood.

The postcard will include instructions on how to schedule a meter replacement appointment. Installers may also ask to schedule an appointment door-to-door or via a doorhanger left at the building. Because water meters are indoors, installers will need access to the home or business.

All installers will have completed training and background checks, according to city officials. Installers will also have city-issued IDs and will drive marked vehicles.

An adult will need to be present during the appointment, which will take approximately 30-45 minutes. During this time water services will be briefly interrupted.

Find more information here.

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