The Town of Newmarket is replacing 18,000 household water meters to provide better data and identify leaks.
The municipality announced the second phase of its mandatory water meter replacement program March 31. The project aims to provide better accuracy and allow for remote readings by the town.
“This new digital infrastructure will provide residents and the town better access to data that will allow for the future ability to track and monitor usage and identify leaks and losses before they become a larger issue,” the town said in a news release.
The town started unrolling the initiative in March 2021, when it upgraded 7,000 existing meters that were less than 10 years old. One year later, the town is going ahead with replacing older meters to meet its standards.
Council originally approved the initiative in 2016, targeting 25,000 homes and 1,000 businesses. The town said existing water meters are reaching the end of their life cycle and are using outdated technology to measure usage.
Residents will be receiving a letter from the town via mail and be required to book an appointment with the contractor, WAMCO. An adult will have to be present during the installation, which takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. Residents are not required to pay any fees for the installation.
However, the work will require installers to enter a person’s home. The town delayed replacements in 2021 due to the pandemic, instead only doing households where the work could be kept external. But with most public health mandates now lifted, the town is going ahead with the remaining 18,000 households. The town’s FAQ said the work is mandatory and does not indicate it can be refused due to the pandemic.
As far as health protocols, the town said WAMCO installers will be subject to a daily screening process before heading to work. They will also wear a face mask and stay at least two metres apart at all times.
The town said residents should book an appointment within seven days of receiving a letter. Once you have your letter, you can book an appointment online or by calling WAMCO directly at 1-833-926-2626.
If you have questions about the program, you can visit newmarket.ca/watermeters, email [email protected] or call 905-895-5193.
