Fort Smith pauses 125K water meter study over cost, transparency questions

The Fort Smith Board of Directors postponed a $125,000 water meter system study due to concerns about costs and potential bias from Ameresco's proposed audit. Director Christina Catsavis expressed doubt regarding the need for the study, suggesting that city employees could perform meter readings instead. The failing current meters result in over $1 million in annual leak adjustments for the city, according to Utilities director Lance McAvoy. He noted that the new system would provide real-time leak notifications, addressing the financial losses incurred. Despite two prior study sessions, board members felt the need for further discussion and requested a summary with cost comparisons for new meters.

The board's decision reflects caution regarding the city's financial commitments amid ongoing concerns about previous meter system failures. Catsavis emphasized the importance of evaluating all costs associated with new systems, including maintenance and software subscriptions. The board plans to revisit the issue in August, aiming for a more informed decision on the costly study.