The severe weather threat will continue through this weekend. Conditions will be favorable for severe weather to develop over much KAKEland Sunday. Check back here often for the latest weather information.
Friday, August 31, 2012
Confusing water bills may soon be a thing of the past. Wichita is spending millions of dollars to upgrade the city's water meters.
The new meters are electronic, more accurate and easier to read. They are expected to save residents and the city money.
Wichita Director of Public Works Alan King says this upgrade has been needed for a long time.
"They haven't been replaced has often has they should be. Some of them are old - some of them are very old," said Wichita Director of Public Works Alan King.
The meters are so old that many residents have complained to the city about the inaccuracy of their bills. With water rates going up, residents don't want to see their money going down the drain.
"The cost of water is going up and I think it's important for people to save some of those resources. That way, they can get an accurate estimation of how much they're using," said Wichita resident Mark Magelli.
The $32 million upgrade will replace the old meters with electronic ones that track water usage by the hour. City leaders say that feature will eliminate mistakes on water bills.
City workers will begin installing the first of the new meters next week. The project will take five years to complete as workers change out 20 percent of the city's meters each year.
Officials want to protect you from possible scammers who may claim to be city workers out to change your meter. Here's how to tell the difference:
If someone comes to your home wanting to change your water meter but doesn't meet the above criteria, you should call the police immediately.
