During the Wellington Selection Committee Meeting on May 22, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding the aging water meter system in the village. With over 20,000 meters in operation, more than 95% of these devices are over 15 years old, raising concerns about their accuracy and the financial implications for the community.

The committee highlighted that mechanical meters typically begin to degrade in accuracy after 15 years, which can lead to substantial revenue losses for the village. According to the American Water Works Association (AWWA) standards, meters should accurately record 95% of the water that passes through them. However, recent bench testing of approximately 400 meters revealed a concerning range of accuracy, with some meters recording as low as 80% compliance with the AWWA standard.

The findings suggest that the village is potentially losing around $600,000 annually due to under-registration of water usage. This financial impact underscores the urgency of addressing the aging infrastructure. The committee has been working on this issue for about 18 months, collaborating with consultants Hazen Sawyer and eSource to explore various metering technologies.

Ultimately, the decision was made to continue using mechanical meters, despite the challenges they present. This choice reflects a commitment to maintaining existing systems while acknowledging the need for future upgrades to ensure accurate water billing and revenue generation for the village.

As the committee moves forward, the implications of these discussions will be critical for Wellington's financial health and the effectiveness of its water management strategies. The community will need to stay informed about potential upgrades and the long-term plans to address the aging meter infrastructure.