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State Revolving Funds (SRF) Loan_Water Meter Efficiency ReplacmentTHE CTTY OF DUB E Masterpiece on the Mississippi TO: The Honorable Mayor and City Council Members FROM: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager Dubuque Ab-Am~aCity .~/.~ 2007 SUBJECT: Forgivable Loan /State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Application Iowa Department of Natural Resources DATE: April 2, 2009 Water Department Manager Bob Green recommends City Council approval of the submission of an $8,866,967.80 Forgivable Loan/SRF Loan Application to the State of Iowa as part of the American's Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 for its Meter Change Out Program. This is being made available through the Stimulus Allotment to the State's Revolving Loan Fund for projects that were considered to be "Green" infrastructure improvements. Through this process we have identified a partnership opportunity with a local manufacturer, AY McDonald Manufacturing Company, who manufactures a device called an Unmeasured Flow Reducer." This device supports the accuracy of water meter usage by allowing it to pick up extremely low flows that otherwise would go undetected. I concur with the recommendation and respectfully request Mayor and City Council approval. n ~ R ~ /' ~ ~ ! ~ } / ( ~ Michael C. Van Milligen ~_ , TN) MCVM/jh Attachment cc: Barry Lindahl, City Attorney Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager Bob Green, Water Department Manager THE CITY OF DUbUgUe ~~ DUB E a~ 1 - Masterpiece on the Mississippi 2007 TO: Michael C. Van Milligen, City Manager FROM: Bob Green, Water Department Manager SUBJECT: Forgivable Loan /State Revolving Fund (SRF) Loan Application Iowa Department of Natural Resources DATE: April 1, 2009 INTRODUCTION: The purpose of this memorandum is to bring to your attention that the City Water Department has submitted a Forgivable Loan/SRF Loan Application to the State of Iowa as part of the American's Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 for its Meter Change Out Program. DISCUSSION: During this past year as part of the Water Department's Capitol Improvement Project Budget we have been evaluating the need to replace its water meters. Three studies have been completed as part of this process with the support of HDR Engineering. The results from these reports support the need to replace its water meters throughout the system. During this review it was brought to our attention of a device that supports the accuracy of a water meter usage by allowing it to pick up extremely low flows that otherwise would go undetected. This device is called an "Unmeasured Flow Reducer" (UFR) and is made here in Dubuque by the AY McDonald Manufacturing Company. FORGIVABLE LOAN ELIGIBILITY During Phase III of the meter study it was brought to our attention that a portion of the funding for this project could be eligible as a forgivable loan and the remaining portion be funded through a 3% loan. This is being made available through the Stimulus Allotment to the State's Revolving Loan Fund for projects that were considered to be "Green" infrastructure improvements. In review of projects that would be eligible, we found the City's Water Meter Change Out Program would qualify. The time table given to us in submitting this project for a portion of it to be funded as a forgivable loan and the remaining loan balance at a 3% interest rate was short, quick and had to be shovel ready. With these guidelines we submitted our application in requesting support through the Forgivable Loan and SRF Loan Program in support of the City's Water Meter Change Out Program. ACTION: Though this Forgivable Loan/Loan Application has been submitted, it is understood that formal approval and authorization through you and City Council action still needs to take place before we are to proceed with this project. I have attached for your review the following: • Grant Application • Exhibit A -Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation, November, 2007 • Exhibit B -Water Meter Testing and Review, November, 2008 • Exhibit C -Final Water Meter Review and Testing Phase Two, March, 2009 • Exhibit D - AY McDonald Information Sheet for Unrestricted Flow Reducer • Exhibit E - AY McDonald Product Comparison The estimated cost for this project is $8,866,967.80. Staff and I are available to meet with you to discuss and answer questions you may have. BG:ve Attachments cc: Cindy Steinhauser, Assistant City Manager Teri Goodman, Assistant City Manager Sheila Samuelson, Sustainable Community Coordinator Ken TeKippe, Finance Director Jenny Larson, Budget Director File APPLICATION FOR "GREEN" PROJECTS The Iowa SRF is now accepting applications for projects that can meet the eligibility criteria in the stimulus legislation. Please use this application to submit your "green" project. Please read through the guidelines carefully and answer all of the questions fully to the best of your ability. We may ask for additional information later. American Recovery and Reinvestment Act March 2009 The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (ARRA) allocated funds to the State of Iowa for distribution through the State Revolving Fund programs. A STATE portion of the funds are for "green" projects, such as water and energy efficiency, REVOLVINGFUN~ green infrastructure, and other environmentally innovative efforts. Terms described in this application are subject to change pending approval of Iowa's stimulus allocation plan by the Iowa Environmental Protection Commission. Deadline for applications is 1:00 p.m. March 27, 2009. Return applications by fax ore-mail to: Patti Cale-Finnegan Fax 515-725-0348 Patti.cale-finnegan@dnr.iowa.gov PROJECT GUIDELINES Eligible Applicants Cities, counties, sanitary districts, SRF-eligible public water supplies, and other public entities with taxing authority are eligible to apply. Eligible Projects General project categories are water efficiency, energy efficiency, green infrastructure, and environmentally innovative projects. Specific guidance on what is eligible in each category is provided in Attachment 1. Type of Assistance Available Assistance will be provided in the form of loans. Twenty percent of the loan amount will be forgivable. A 3% interest rate will apply to the remaining loan funds. Loan term will be up to 20 years. SRF origination and servicing fees will apply on the 3% loan portion. Exam le Pro'ect: Total ro'ect amount: $250,000 For ivable loan amount: $ 50,000 3% loan amount: $200,000 Forgivable Loan Amounts Available by Category Cate o Amount Water and ener efflcienc $3,429,000 Green infrastructure and other $4,304,000 Cap on Assistance The maximum amount of forgivable loan per project will be $1 million. There is no maximum 3% loan amount. Project Timelines All projects receiving stimulus funds must be under contract (notice to proceed issued) or under construction by February 17, 2010, with an executed SRF loan agreement. To be ready for a loan agreement, all requirements described in the next section must be met. Project Requirements 1. An SRF environmental review must be completed for ALL projects, with either a Categorical Exclusion or a Finding of No Significant Impact approved. SRF offers the assistance of environmental review specialists to help applicants complete this process. This process can take 60 to 180 days. 2. Many "green" projects will not require a construction permit from the Department of Natural Resources. If a construction permit is needed, however, it must be obtained before a loan can be executed. In addition, all other applicable local, state or federal permits must be obtained. 3. During the bidding process, state bidding laws must be followed. Federal requirements for construction contracting also apply. Those requirements are outlined in the SRF stimulus front- end specifications packet. New requirements for stimulus funds include Davis-Bacon prevailing union wages and Buy American provisions. 4. Once project costs are finalized, an SRF loan application must be submitted and approved. All applicable Iowa financing laws apply, including public hearing and bond resolution. Legal fees for a bond opinion will be incurred but can be financed as part of the project. Application Review Applications will be reviewed for eligibility for stimulus funds based on the following criteria: 1. The project clearly advances the objectives in one or more categories of the "green" reserve of the ARRA (see Attachment 1). 2. The project can be designed, reviewed, permitted (if needed), and under contract or under construction by February 2010. 3. The project demonstrates significant water or energy savings or other water quality benefits. Documentation of those benefits will be required to determine eligibility. 4. The project costs are reasonable for the type of project proposed. FUNDING ALLOCATION PROCESS All uses of SRF funds, including the stimulus dollars, must be described in an Intended Use Plan (IUP). After reviewing the applications for "green" projects, we will list all the eligible projects in the draft IUP. The draft IUP will be released for public review and comment in early April. A public hearing is scheduled on April 16, and comments will be accepted until April 23. The IUP must be approved by the Iowa Environmental Protection Commission and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. From the list of eligible projects (see funding amounts by category above), applications will be funded first come, first served as applicants complete the SRF review, contracting, and loan requirements. APPLICATION FORM 1. Contact Information A licant Cit of Dubu ue Contact Person Bob Green Title Water De artment Mana er Address 50 West 13 Street Cit Dubu ue Zi 52001 Tele hone 563-589-4291 E-mail b reen cit ofdubu ue.or 2. Project Category (check all that apply) ® Water efficiency ® Energy efficiency ® Green infrastructure ® Other environmentally innovative project 3. Project Description. Attach project plans, maps, and other supporting information fo show eligibility. WATER METER EFFICIENCY REPLACEMENT PROGRAM: The intent of this project is fo replace 22,559 water meters that have exceeded their useful life and/or have failed accuracy testing in 2007 and 2008 (See Exhibits B and C). New meters will greatly increase metering accuracy and efficiency by including a fixed base radio read as part of the program. Incorporating radio read into this comprehensive replacement program will eliminate the current system of manually reading over 22,000 meters each month. Manual reading is a highly inefficient system that can result in human error in usage calculation as well as have a negative impact on carbon emissions because of the required vehicle miles each month. The Wafer Meter Efificiency Replacement program will include the installation of an Unmetered Flow Reducer that allows measurement of low-flows that are currently undetectable, even by new meters. The upgrade to this efficient meter system will provide consumers increased awareness of their personal usage as well as provide accurate billing for the amount of water used. The program will provide greater consumer awareness and an incentive to be more efficient in the use of this valuable resource. Evidence of Need for Replacement The City's last meter replacement program began in Fiscal Year 1982 and concluded in 1987. The expected lifetime of these meters -which have aged 22 and 27 years - is 15 to 20 years. As meters age, they become worn, which over Time reduces or slows the overall registration of the meter. This meter inaccuracy affects water consumption measurement which in turn reduces collected revenue. A need for replacement of the City of Dubuque's water meters has been justified through review and two types of testing procedures (see Exhibits A, B and C). Current meters of all ages have shown significant inaccuracies in measuring wafer flow and detecting low flows. All meters currently require inefficient manual readings, requiring staff and use of a vehicle to visit over 22,000 meters monthly. Scope of Replacement Project The water meter change out project includes replacement of approximately 22,559 meters in the city system with newer, more accurate meters. The new meters will feature a fixed-base radio read, eliminating the need to manually read over 22,559 meters monthly. This service is currently contracted out to Aquila for $142,000 per year. !n addition, the change out is intended to include the installation of a device from the AY McDonald Corporation of Dubuque, Iowa, that will allow the wafer meter to measure flows below % gallon per minute -such as leaks and drips -that have been previously unmeasurable, even by new meters (see Exhibit E). Dubuque will be the first City in Iowa to install this device, called an Unmeasured Flow Reducer (UFR). The UFR has been sold worldwide for fiive years and pilot studies have shown an average increase of 5 to 10% of measured water for each UFR installed. A pilot study of 35 locations in Kingston, TN showed an average improvement in unaccounted for water of 9.2%. It is the City's hope that as consumers' monthly stafements reflect their actual water use, they will fake measures to prevent leaks and drips and conserve water as a natural resource. Please see the following attached exhibits: Exhibit A: Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation, November 2007 Exhibit B: Water Meter Testing and Review, November 2008 Exhibit C: Final Water Meter Review and Testing Phase Two, March 2009 Exhibit D: AY McDonald Information Sheet for Unrestricted Flow Reducer Exhibit E: AY McDonald product comparison 4. Project Results. E.g. for water efficiency projects, indicate percent of water loss reduced; for energy efficiency projects, percent savings or reductions in kWh, KW, or therms; for other projects, describe environmental and water quality benefits. PROJECT RESULTS: Overview: The Water Meter Efficiency Replacement program will serve not only as a model to correct multiple system inefficiencies that exist in cities across Iowa, but also provide an opportunity to grow green technology with an existing Iowa business. The first, critical benefit from the proposed WMERP and the installation of a UFR will more accurately charge water users for the water they consume. Actual water usage tracking will create informed consumers who are not currently aware of existing drips and leaks in their home that increase their costs. The impact of this knowledge increases voluntary consumer conservation measures that reduce the amount of energy and chemicals currently consumed to process water both upstream and downstream. The second benefit is the value to municipalities and water utilities. Through the installation of a UFR and aloes-flow detection system, utilities are more accurately able to charge consumers for their water usage. This potential increase in cost to the consumer will be offset by the savings to the operation of the system with the reduction or elimination of manual inspections. The third benefit is to the environment. As municipalities become active participants in reducing carbon emissions, management of fleet and reduction of vehicle miles is part of the "low-hanging" fruit that can be implemented. The reduction and elimination of thousand of vehicles trips each year to inspect 22,000+ meters monthly will positively impact local air quality and health. Financial Implications of Increased Meter Accuracy: Water Meter Review and Testing (Exhibit B) shows that among both new and old meters, 35.7% of small meters (5/8-inch to 1-inch) and 40.3% of large meters (1-1/2-inch to 8-inch) failed accuracy tests in 2007 and 2008. Although there are relatively few large meters in the system, they may measure up to 1000x the volume of water measured by a residential meter. The revenue analysis performed in Exhibit B estimates that 6.9% of annual consumption is not recorded by water meters, leading to a projected loss of water and sewer revenue of approximately $676,000 for fiscal year 2009. Fixed base radio reading will eliminate the need to manually read over 22,000 meters monthly, saving the citizens of Dubuque $142,000 annually. In addition to this, AY McDonald projects that with the ability to detect low flows such as drips and leaks -something that even new meters cannot do -annual water utility revenue will increase by7%, representing $53,712 per month, or $644,540.04 annually. Under this scenario the cost of UFR installation would be recouped in just two to three years. Vast inefficiencies in the current system are represented by the total estimated opportunities to increase revenues by over $1.3 million in fiscal year 2009, and save $142,000 in meter reading expenses. Water and Energy Savings: We believe it is valid to assume that consumers will change their water consumption behavior as their utility bills reflect their actual usage. However, the actual volume of water conserved by consumers is extremely difficult to estimate. The city intends to help consumers be proactive in addressing consumer concerns about measurable increases in utility bills by helping them adopt water efficiency measures. Each gallon of water use represents a quantifiable amount of electricity and chemicals consumed by Dubuque's Water Department. The power to produce one million gallons of water costs $154.23, while the chemicals and sludge removal to produce the same amount of treated water cost $150.48 and $41.41, respectively. Reduction in water use will result in reduced use of both energy and chemicals, resulting in significant savings. Fixed-base radio reads will contribute significant energy savings by eliminating the requirement to travel to each of 22,559 meters on a monthly basis. 5. Anticipated Construction Date, including estimated timeframe for environmental review and permitting (if needed): July 1, 2009 6. Project Costs* Category Total estimated pro'ect costs Costs to be covered from other funds Allowable stimulus funds Project administration 0 0 NOT ELIGIBLE Land and easements 0 0 NOT ELIGIBLE Desi n $356,000 0 $356,000 Construction/Installation $8,430,595 0 $8,430,595 E ui ment Cost included above 0 cost included above Le al fees $10,000 0 $10,000 Stimulus Subtotal $8,796,595 For ivable Loan Portion subtotal x .020 $1,759,319 3% Loan Portion subtotal x 0.80 $7,037,276 Loan Initiation Fee 3% loan ortion x .01 $70,372.76 TOTAL STIMULUS FUNDS REQUESTED $8, 866, 967.80 * NOTE: Because of costs for bonding for loans, projects under $50, 000 may not be cost- effective. City of Dubuque Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation FINAL DRAFT November 2007 Prepared by: 1C~~ HDR Engineering, Inc. JC City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Executive Summary ............................................................................................... ....... 2 2 A. Background ................................................................................................. ....... B. Study Approach .......................................................................................... ....... 2 C. Cost Considerations .................................................................................... ....... 3 D. Meter Replacement Program Elements ...................................................... ....... 5 E. Summary of Meter Plan .............................................................................. ....... 8 F. Acknowledgements ..................................................................................... .....10 I. Assessment of Dubuque Meter Reading Operations .................................. .....11 A. Introduction ................................................................................................. ..... 11 B. Current Process and System ...................................................................... ..... 11 C. Productivity and Cost .................................................................................. ..... 14 D. Employee Interviews /Concept Workshop ................................................. .....15 E. Benchmark Comparison ............................................................................. .....18 II. Evaluation of Meter Reading Technology Options ...................................... ..... 25 A. AMR Historical Overview ............................................................................ ..... 25 B. Manual Meter Reading ................................................................................ ..... 27 C. Touch Read ................................................................................................ ..... 28 D. Mobile Radio ............................................................................................... ..... 29 E. Fixed Radio ................................................................................................. ..... 30 F. Comparison of Meter Reading Technologies .............................................. ..... 31 G. Evaluation of Meter Reading Technology Suitability for Dubuque .............. ..... 35 H. Meter Manufacturers ................................................................................... ..... 38 I. Projected Industry Trends ........................................................................... ..... 43 III. Cost Analysis of Metering Options .................................................................... 45 A. Methodology ............................................................................................... ..... 45 B. Development of Cost Model ........................................................................ ..... 46 C. Present Value Cost Analysis ....................................................................... ..... 48 D. Cost per Meter Read Analysis .................................................................... ..... 50 E. Revenue Recovery and Payback ..................................................................... 52 F. Conclusions ............................................................................................... ...... 54 IV. Recommendations and Conclusion .................................................................. 55 A. Meter Reading Technologies: Evaluation of Other Considerations .................. 55 B. Collaboration Opportunities ....................................................................... ...... 56 C. Deployment Time Period and Strategies ................................................... ...... 58 D. Meter Maintenance and Management ....................................................... ...... 60 V. Meter Plan Summary ..................................................................................... ...... 63 A. Recommendations ..................................................................................... ......63 B. Meter Plan Implementation ........................................................................ ...... 65 VI. Appendices .................................................................................................... ......68 A. Ascent Group White Paper ........................................................................ ...... 69 B. Summary of Cost Model Results ............................................................... ...... 79 Page 1 City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Executive Summary A. Background HDR was engaged by the City of Dubuque (City) to conduct a meter reading feasibility study and develop recommendations for future action. The City currently contracts meter reading services to Aquila, with the current contract set to expire in July of 2009. Aquila has indicated a willingness to explore future collaboration, although it is difficult to predict future cost trends far into the future. In addition, the City's existing water meter population is nearing the end of their service lives and are likely becoming increasingly inaccurate, which results in loss of revenue. With a need to replace the existing water meters, the City wanted to ensure that its meter reading operations, and any investment in meter reading technology would provide the best overall solution consistent with the City's long-range strategic planning efforts. HDR was retained to provide the City with an independent, objective assessment of Dubuque's current meter reading operation to: - Measure meter reading performance - Present a comparison of meter reading alternatives - Recommend the most efficient, cost effective meter reading system and implementation strategy B. Study Approach The study was conducted in three phases: - Assessment of Dubuque's current meter reading operation - Analysis of alternatives, interviews of other regional utilities and development of a cost model with input from the City - Recommendations of preferred meter reading system and implementation Assessment of the City's existing meter reading operation was conducted through meetings, interviews and a workshop with City staff. Meetings were also conducted with Aquila, and Alliant Energy to discuss existing operations, and potential areas of future collaboration. Further evaluation included analysis of Dubuque's present meter reading, meter maintenance, billing, utility management and financial management activities. Following the assessment, several meter technologies were evaluated for further consideration. Based on the above mentioned upcoming expiration of the current contract with Aquila and the need to replace the City's existing meters, and discussions with City staff, it was decided that the best option for a replacement water meter system would be automated meter reading technology using fixed radio systems. A detailed cost model was developed as part of a comparison of several meter technologies that included the following four alternatives: Executive Summary Page 2 1 L~ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation - Touch read meters (with Aquila meter readers) - Touch read meters (with City meter readers) - Mobile drive-by radio meters - Fixed radio meters Ten large Iowa water utilities were interviewed to determine what technologies have been employed in recent years and their experiences. The experiences of utilities across the nation and national trends were also investigated. Potential areas of collaboration were investigated, including partnering with Aquila, Alliant Energy, and other City Departments. The final phase of this effort involved the development of a recommended plan of future action. This included a detailed cost analysis of the various meter reading alternatives, considering a range of implementation options (e.g., short versus long periods of new technology deployment, meter maintenance programs, deployment strategies, etc.). The results from the previous phases of this effort, along with input provided by City staff throughout the process, guided the development of recommendations presented in this Plan. C. Cost Considerations Before presenting the results of the analysis, a presentation of major assumptions and a brief description on how the model works are appropriate. It is assumed that the entire system will continue to be touch read at the beginning of the planning period; meter growth will be 1 % per year over the 20 year planning horizon; labor related costs (salary and benefits) will increase more rapidly than technology costs; and the City's cost of capital is (discount factor) is 4.8% and debt service rate is 3.25%. The debt service rate assumes that State Revolving Loan funds will be used. The interest rates are current as of October 2007, but are subject to fluctuations that influence the results of the cost model. The model works by first calculating the number of full-time equivalent employees (FTE's) required to provide meter reading/service activities based on each meter technology. Once the number of FTE's is determined, the model calculates cost by multiplying the number of FTE's by appropriate unit costs for various operating and capital expense categories. The costs for field service representatives, who are responsible for installation, repair and other field service activities, are included as well for each alternative. Dubuque currently employs 3.75 FTE field service representatives and it is assumed that the current field service staffing level would be maintained. The costs for required supervisor(s) are also calculated for each meter option. A large portion of the annual operating costs for all of the meter technology alternatives are staffing for meter readers and field service representatives. The primary benefit of automated meter reading (AMR) is realized through eliminating the cost of Aquila meter readers and potentially meter service FTE's and related meter Executive Summary Page 3 ~_ ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation reading equipment (vehicles and meter reading equipment). Field service visits and associated customer service costs can be reduced for some meter technologies as well. As AMR is deployed, fewer Aquila meter readers are required to read meters. Therefore, the more quickly AMR is deployed, the faster the City realizes cost savings. As the planning horizon is extended, the large capital cost of AMR equipment is offset by this reduction in meter reading costs. Table 1 presents the total net present value costs for each alternative broken down by capital and debt service, operating costs, and project management/procurement. Table 2 presents the same information in terms of real (non-adjusted) dollars. Tables 1 and 2 shows total costs are relatively similar for the alternatives. The operational cost for touch read meters are higher compared to fixed radio due to increased staffing costs, while fixed radio has higher capital costs. Table 3 presents the real dollar operating budget for five year intervals. As mentioned earlier, the majority of the annual operating budget is related to staffing expenses for meter readers, field service workers and associated vehicle costs, supervisor(s), and Dubuque currently employs 3.75 FTE service workers as well as supervisors that would not represent a new expense. Additional costs result from periodic vehicle and meter reading equipment purchases based on each meter alternative. Table 1. Total Net Present Values (20 Year Period) Alternative Capital and Debt Service Operating Project Management Total /Procurement Touch Read (Aquila Readers) $4,459,972 $7,297,939 $309,982 $12,067,893 Touch Read (City Readers) $4,634,377 $8,906,595 $309,982 $13,850,954 Mobile Radio $5,979,399 $5,964,076 $309,982 $12,253,457 Fixed Radio $6,369,962 $5,150,430 $309,982 $11,830,374 Table 2. Total Real Dollar Values (20 Year Periodl Alternative Capital and Debt Service Operating Project Management Total /Procurement Touch Read (Aquila Readers) $7,151,457 $12,198,257 $332,475 $19,682,189 Touch Read (City Readers) $7,433,261 $15,129,087 $332,475 $22,894,823 Mobile Radio $9,583,232 $9,937,863 $332,475 $19,853,570 Fixed Radio $10,207,175 $8,580,502 $332,475 $19,120,152 Executive Summary Page 4 L City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Table 3. Real Dollar O eratin Bud et Alternative Year 1 Year 5 Year 10 Year 15 Year 20 Total Touch Read $321 683 $502,445 $594,202 $702,953 $831,899 $12,198,257 (Aquila Readers) , Touch Read $345 563 $576,757 $688,196 $917,097 $1,094,871 $15,129,087 (City Readers) , Mobile Radio $348,373 $400,990 $478,186 $570,400 $680,589 $9,937,863 Fixed Radio $301,999 $346,354 $412,876 $492,310 $587,196 $8,580,502 In considering the various costs of each alternative the touch read (Aquila readers), and both of the AMR technologies are fairly competitive with one another. There are significant differences in terms of capital and operating costs however. The touch read meters will have higher operational costs due to increased staffing, which is more likely to increase in the future than capital costs, and offers fewer non-cost benefits than either of the radio read systems. Previous experience has shown that both of the AMR technologies, especially fixed radio have the potential to decrease time and money spent on customer service issues, which are difFcult to fully quantify. Based on cost issues and non-cost issues that are discussed later in the report, the fixed radio alternative appears to be the best option for Dubuque. D. Meter Replacement Program Elements There are many factors to consider when implementing a meter replacement program. The primary elements of a program for which decisions or actions are needed include: - Meter reading technology - Deployment time period for new meters and reading technologies - Deployment strategy - Meter maintenance and management Each of these elements is evaluated in this Plan. A summary of the findings is provided below. Meter Reading Technologies: Non-Cost Considerations In addition to the quantitative cost considerations of competing meter technologies, there are also qualitative non-financial issues to consider for customers and the City. A detailed cost analysis indicates three of the options (touch read-Aquila and both of the radio read options) have similar total costs. However, the meter options have important differences that should be further considered in choosing the best alternative. Therefore, the four meter reading approaches were evaluated as part of meetings with City employees that discussed a variety of non-cost factors such as the following: Executive Summary Page 5 ~_ ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation - Staffing Issues - Technology Selection - Compatibility - Information Wanted from the System/Data Management - Program Implementation and Deployment - Customer Service - Public Acceptance - Political and Regulatory Issues Details of the workshop can be found in Section 1 of the report. The results of the workshop indicated that the automatic meter reading (AMR) options are best suited for the City, both from a cost perspective, and with regard to other, non-cost considerations. The fixed radio meters have a slight cost advantage compared to mobile read radio meters, as well as added operational flexibility. Deployment Time Period The time period involved in implementing a new water meter reading/billing system can greatly influence the cost of the program. Typically, a utility the size of Dubuque could realize full implementation of a new technology (i.e., applied to all service meters) within 18 months to two years if this work is performed by a contractor. To conduct the effort in house with current staff may take on the order of ten years. A shorter deployment period has a higher financial outlay at the beginning, but will ultimately save money over the long run as operational, project management, and water meter system management costs are lowered more quickly. A two year deployment period over 3 City fiscal years was considered in the cost analysis. Deployment Strategies There are three options for deployment of the new meter system: - Geographical: Replace meters based on geographic location or meter reading routes. Could be accomplished without disrupting meter reading operations and is time efficient. It would take longer to replace specific meters that are the most inaccurate. - Surgical: Replace meters that are the most difficult to access for meter readers first. Improves meter reader efficiency, but takes longer to replace the entire system and only offers significant benefit for systems requiring meter readers. - Opportunistic: Focus on first replacing meters that are most inaccurate and would result in largest revenue gains. Would take longer to replace all meters. Executive Summary Page 6 L City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation To determine which strategy is best suited for the City, the specific challenges faced by the City must be examined. These include: - An older meter population at the end of its service life with increasingly inaccurate meters. - Coordinating replacement program with Aquila meter readers, regardless of meter technology selected. - Continuous meter turn-on and turn-off due to transient (college) population and a high number of customer service requests/issues. Based on these considerations, it is recommended to identify the most problematic water meters in the system and adopt an opportunistic deployment strategy for a relatively small number of the City's meters. This would allow the City to reap immediate benefits by replacing meters that are aged and reading inaccurately, adversely affecting the City's revenue stream. Following replacement of the most problematic meters, the City should replace the remaining meters using a geographic deployment strategy based on existing meter- reader routes. A geographic deployment will be easier to coordinate for installation and with Aquila. Meter Maintenance and Management Historically, the City has not implemented a formal maintenance program or schedule to guide replacement of water service meters. The current practice is to replace a water meter only after it has been identified and confirmed as one that is no longer registering accurately. By contrast, a formal meter maintenance program involves routine testing of older meters to maintain a database of information related to meter age, location, and level of accuracy. By compiling such data, informed decisions as to replacement schedules can be made. This data may also be linked to other City functions (e.g., Geographical Information Systems, maintenance work order system, etc.) as part of an enhanced asset management approach. Collaboration Opportunities In order to reduce costs there are several options to be explored. See section 4-B for more details. - Aquila has expressed interest in collaborating with the City on a future mobile radio read system. - Alliant Energy is moving forward with plans to install fixed radio systems, and has indicated interest in exploring areas for collaboration. Executive Summary Page 7 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Continued discussion with Alliant, Aquila and other City Departments is recommended. As part of further discussions, the City should consider three general collaboration options: - Sharing the cost of a new (joint) system - Leasing a portion of a new or existing system owned by another utility - Building a new system and leasing a portion of it to another utility E. Summary of Meter Plan The City's water service meter strategic plan is presented below. It is comprised of recommendations pertaining to primary meter replacement program elements, as well as a summary of key implementation steps. These recommendations will be discussed in detail later in the report. Recommendations The recommendations outlined here are organized by the meter replacement program elements discussed above. In most cases there are multiple options to be considered by the City. Bold text indicates the recommended or preferred options. Together with the suggested implementation steps, these selected options constitute the preferred strategic plan. Further details are provided later in the report. - Meter Reading Technology: Mobile or Fixed Radio. After preliminary consideration of many meter technologies and detailed consideration of several potential meter options, the automatic meter reading (AMR) alternative of a fixed radio network was identified as the best options for implementation by the City. It is recommended that specific meter brands and options be re-evaluated once bids are solicited and costs are updated. - Deployment Time Period: Short (Contractor Installed). A short time period is recommended for deployment of new meters and meter reading technology. With contractor installation, City-wide meter replacement could occur within two years. The deployment period would likely increase to approximately ten years if the City were to deploy new equipment with existing City staff. - Deployment Strategy: Opportunistic and Geographical. The recommended meter deployment approach is a combination of opportunistic and geographical strategies. Early opportunistic deployment will allow the City to first replace meters with known accuracy problems (aged meters) followed by geographical replacement which is most efficient when working with Aquila for the replacement meter system replacement. - Meter Maintenance/Management: o Before Meter Replacement: Contractor-Managed: The program should be a statistical sampling of meters 10 years and older to determine actual meter inaccuracies. The meter testing is estimated to cost roughly Executive Summary Page 8 1 L~ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation $50,000. The results can be used to update the cost model and re- evaluate meter options. o During Meter Replacement: City-Managed: It is recommended that the City establish a new meter testing protocol. A statistical sampling of one- half to one percent of all new meters would establish base-line data and confirm accuracy. This phase of meter management would be managed by the City, but the actual meter testing would conducted by the contractor as part of the meter replacement program. o After Meter Replacement: City-Managed: The most important aspect of a water meter plan is the long-term management of the meters to ensure reliability and accuracy. It is recommended that the City develop a routine testing program to track trends in accuracy and maintenance. It is likely that a meter testing program would require some additional number of staff depending on the meter technology selected, which will influence the number of required field staff to an extent. Implementation The following are key steps that will aid in implementation of the recommendations outlined above. Further details are provided later in the report. - Site Visits: Visit other utilities to observe their experiences with water meter replacement programs and systems. Several regional utilities have recently implemented new meter systems. - Develop Meter Maintenance/Management Program: The information that can be obtained regarding its existing metering system will enable the City to better justify revenue recovery, construct bid specifications, develop deployment strategies, and plan for future replacement cycles. - Develop Bid Specifications: The City should consider developing bid specifications for City-wide meter replacement, in parallel with developing the meter maintenance and management program. The purpose of this effort is to learn precisely what options vendors have available to the City and their associated costs. The City will also need to examine these project management requirements. Even with a turnkey project, there are numerous project management and support tasks that must be performed by the City or an agent retained to represent the City. These decisions will affect the overall cost of the project. - Re-evaluate Technology Options: Once vendor bids are received for City-wide water service meter replacement, the information should be evaluated using the tools such as the cost model and approaches outlined in this Plan document. An overriding feature of the meter plan is that it, and the City, must remain flexible and open to change during implementation Executive Summary Page 9 ~_ ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation F. Acknowledgements HDR wishes to acknowledge the contributions made by the City of Dubuque staff members fisted below and their valuable assistance to the consulting team. Their participation, guidance and oversight were much appreciated. HDR looks forward to providing any additional services for the City in implementing the above noted recommendations. Mike Brekke Jonathan Brown Bob Green Rose Hoerner Chris Kohlmann Jenny Larson Jean Nachtman Joe Pregler Ken TeKippe Rick Till Executive Summary Page 10 L City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation I. Assessment of Dubuque Meter Reading Operations A. Introduction The objective of this study was to provide the City of Dubuque with an assessment of current meter reading practices, and an analysis of various meter reading technologies. Besides the awareness that there is a need to replace many of the older existing water meters, and a desire to improve customer service operations, there were no immediate concerns or issues with the water meter system. The City wanted a guide to ensure that current, and more importantly, future meter reading processes provided the most cost effective and reliable results to its customers. The first phase of this study was an assessment of the current meter reading process; the results of which are presented in this Section. B. Current Process and System History The City of Dubuque began contracting with Aquila, the local gas utility, for water meter reading services beginning in 1989 with a five year contract, which has subsequently been renewed three times leading to the present. The current contract is scheduled to expire in July 2009. Aquila has indicated that it would be open to the possibility of a shorter term agreement in the future. The last major update to the meter system was in the 1970's, when there was a meter change out program throughout most of the system. In the years since the major change out there have not been any major changes to the system. Over the past ten years about 700 meters per year have been installed, about 500 of which are replacements and about 200 are new. As of 2007, there are a total of just over 22,000 meters, the majority of which are manually read, with some touch pad meters. With the realization that the meter population is reaching the end of their service lives and will require replacement in the near future, as well as service and cost considerations, the City is now looking into the potential of automatic meter reading (AMR) technology. Meter Reading Process There are currently over 22,000 meters that must be read monthly to prepare customer invoices. The City contracts with Aquila to read the meters at a current cost of about $11,000 per month, which equates to approximately 50 cents per meter read. The cost for meter reading with Aquila has increased roughly three percent per year on average, in line with the Consumer Price Index. Aquila and the City together collected over 266,600 meter readings last year. Meter readings are taken by two different groups: Meter Reading (Aquila) and Field Service (the City). Aquila is responsible for the regular monthly billing reads. Meter readers captured over 260,400 meter readings in support of customer invoicing last year. In addition to these regular readings, the City is responsible for customer service meter readings. These customer service readings are primarily for account closings (final reads), and billing Section I Page 11 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation disputes. It is estimated that the City responded to about 6,200 customer requested readings last year. In addition to customer requested readings, the field service group handles other duties such as meter installations, service disconnections, and customer leak detection. There are three full time and one three-quarter time field service representatives between the Water and Finance Departments. Meter Reading System There are two different reading methods currently used: manual, and touch read. Approximately 70% or about 15,500 meters are manual read and 30% or about 6,600 meters are touch read. The majority of the meters are manual read, which are recorded by keypunching the reading manually into ahand-held interrogator. The touch read meters are read by holding a hand held interrogator that can electronically receive the meter reading from the meter when held up to the touch pad connected to the meter register. Aquila's current system requires that the reading from the touch pad interrogator must be entered manually into another interrogator which is later uploaded to a computer. Having to use two interrogators eliminates speed and accuracy benefits of a touch read meter compared to a manually read meter. The manual read systems are further divided into meters that have remote read registers and those that do not. There are about 200 meters that do not have remote registers attached to the outside of the building. Obtaining readings for these meters is more difficult because it is not always possible to schedule a reading. Customers without a remote reading register are charged a 50-cent fee each month to offset the additional effort required to obtain a reading. Due to scheduling conflicts, many of these meters are not read on a monthly basis and if three months elapses between meter reads, then a work order is issued and a field service worker obtains the reading. Meters with remote registers attached to the outside of a building allows the meter reader to read the meter without having to schedule a visit inside the building and saves some time and effort compared to manual read meters without remote registers, where the register on the water meter must be read. The reading process for all types of reads is relatively straight-forward, and follows a series of relatively simple steps. First the account information is retrieved from the City's customer account listing. Next the account information is transferred in batch form to a PC running Sensus AutoRead Software (Sensus PC). This software takes the account information, and "reconfigures" it so that it can be uploaded to the Interrogators. It should be noted that all meter read types are loaded to the hand-held in this manner. The meter reader then takes the loaded interrogator and obtains the meter reading. Once finished reading, all the captured meter reading information is downloaded from the interrogator back into the Sensus PC. The meter reading information is then configured into a batch file to be transferred back to the City where it will be used to prepare regular customer invoices. Section I Page 12 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation The process just described is carried out on a daily basis, with meter reading data transferred to the City every several days on average. The number of accounts loaded into the interrogator typically represents one day's work for a meter reader. Customer requested meter reads are conducted differently. A work order is created by the Finance Department, which is forwarded to a field service representative. Afield service representative takes the work order and takes a meter reading. The meter reading is recorded on the work order, and the work order is returned to the Finance Department, which uses the reading to prepare a final bill, make a customer billing adjustment, or respond to a customer inquiry. Water Meter Inaccuracy The advanced age of many of the water meters has raised the issue of meter inaccuracy. A water meter is a mechanical device, and with age will slow down and under-report the actual amount of water flow. The net result is inaccurate metering and decreased water revenue. In the past, the American Waterworks Association (AWWA) recommended a replacement interval of 7-10 years for water meters, with some allowance depending on environmental factors. With recent advances in water meter technology and construction, the recommended replacement interval has been increased to 15-20 years for new meters The City does not currently have a routine testing or calibration program for water meters due to a lack of available staffing. As such, detailed data regarding the current performance and level of inaccuracy of the water meters was not available for review. However, a general estimate of City-wide meter inaccuracies has been developed for planning purposes. This estimate is predicated on a very general, "rule-of-thumb" trend for water meters that they decline in accuracy at a rate of approximately 0.5 percent per year (i.e., for every year after installation, meters tend to read low by an additional 0.5 percent). Actual inaccuracies vary widely amongst utilities, meter types, and meter ages. This is due to many factors such as chemistry of water, temperature, installation and maintenance techniques/procedures, etc. In the absence of a detailed system review and comparison with other utilities, the use of the "rule-of-thumb" trend serves as a sufficient surrogate in understanding potential meter inaccuracies. Table 4 provides a summary of the calculation of City-wide inaccuracies, based upon application of the general trend to the ages of City meters and system-wide water production. Based on a number of assumptions, the general level of meter inaccuracy throughout the City is estimated to be in the range of about 5 to 15 percent of total water production (i.e., meters are under-recording volumes on this order). Due to the advanced age of a large portion of the meter population it is reasonable to expect the inaccuracy to be on the middle to high end of the estimate. Customers are required to purchase meters 1-1/2 inches and higher and are not likely to replace a meter unless it completely fails. These larger meters typically use much more water than small residential meters and represent a potentially large source of lost revenue if they are inaccurate. It is important to note that this is a system-wide estimate, and that some individual meters may have inaccuracies significantly greater than this (often for a Section I Page 13 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation period of two or three meter reading cycles before potential errors are recognized in the billing software), while other meters may have negligible inaccuracies. Table 4. Estimate of Meter Inaccuracies Meter Age rs Percent Inaccurate~'~ Percentage of Meters in S stem Annual Volume of Consumption MG ~Z Volume of Consumption NOT Recorded MG ~'~ Oto5 0.6-1.9 19.1 557.7 3.5-10.5 5to10 1.9-5.6 15.4 449.7 8.4-25.3 10 to 15 3.1 -9.4 14.0 408.8 12.8-38.3 15 to 20 4.4 - 26.3 8.0 233.6 10.2 - 30.7 20 to 25 5.6-16.9 1.8 52.6 3.0-8.9 25 + 6.9 - 20.6 41.7 1,217.6 83.7 - 251.1 Total 100 2,920 121.6 - 364.7 Total (as % of total production) 4.2% - 12.5% 1. Presented as a range, the middle of which is comprised of the "rule-of-thumb" trend of 0.5% per year applied to the average age for each age category. The low and high ends of the ranges are calculated as 50% and 150% of this midpoint. 2. City records indicate that total system production in 2006 was approximately 8 million gallons per day or roughly 2,920 MG per year. 3. Presented as a range, calculated as Percent Inaccurate multiplied by Annual Volume of Consumption. To better determine the percent inaccuracy, a meter testing contractor could perform tests on a statistical sample of meters aged 10 years and older. This testing would provide data on actual meter inaccuracies of existing meters in the system. The testing would draw more confident conclusions on the overall revenue recovery as provided by the "rule-of-thumb" method. Actual results would better justify the estimated cost savings if a meter replacement program is implemented. C. Productivity and Cost The productivity of manual and touch-read meter readers and technicians varies depending upon population density, service territory topography, and meter register or touch pad location. Taking these variables into consideration, it would be expected that Aquila's meter readers would average between 300 and 500 meter readings per day. Based on discussion with Aquila, their meter readers record on average between 300 and 400 meter reads per day. By this measure, Aquila's meter reading performance is in-line with water utility averages. Field service productivity is more difficult to compare as there is less industry information available. The number of field service calls per day is also impacted by population density, topography, and touch-pad location. Added to these variables are complexity of the service call and location of the service work. For example some Section I Page 14 ~- ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation utilities require that a final meter reading be taken from the meter not just through the touch-pad. Also billing disputes may require visual inspection, and reading of the meter. Considering these variables it would be expected that Dubuque field service representatives should make 18 to 30 meter-related service calls each day. Review of records and discussion with the City indicates approximately 24 field service calls are made on average per day. Again the City is in-line with water utility productivity averages. A summary of meter reading and field service activity is presented in Table 5. The water utility averages presented are based upon HDR's experience, data from meter reading vendors, and operating statistics from other water utilities. Table 5. Industry Comparison to Dubuque Meter Reading Productivity Aquila/City of Dubu ue Water Utility Avera e Dail Meter Reader Productivit 300 - 400 300 to 550 Dail Per Field Service Call Productivit 24 18-30 D. Employee Interviews /Concept Workshop Input from the City is invaluable when developing a strategy for AMR recommendations that will suit the City. HDR interviewed nine key City personnel representing Utility Billing, Information Technology, the Water Department, Budget, and Finance. In addition, representatives from Aquila and Alliant Energy were interviewed as well. The interviews were conducted on August 8-9, 2007. Once individual interviews were completed, consolidated issues, concerns and requests were discussed in a group forum. Overall, the personnel interviewed all agreed that Automatic Meter Reading (AMR) could be a powerful and useful tool to improve productivity and provide a reduction in the time to address customer issues and field service visits, but that cost and other important issues need to be considered before making any potential changes. Many of the same issues were expressed from different City Departments. A total of eleven categories were identified from the interviews and prioritized by the City via a vote by all participants. Each staff member was given a total of ten votes to prioritize the categories. Staff could place all ten votes on one category, one vote on different categories, etc. A summary of the items of greatest concern is listed in Table 6. Section I Page 15 ~• City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Table 6. Summary of Employee Meter Reading Priorities Item Votes Cost Justification 21 Staffing 17 Technology Selection 11 Compatibility 9 Information from System/Data Management g Program Implementation/Deployment 5 Customer Service 3 Public Acceptance 2 Political/Regulatory 1 Risk and Liability 1 Collaboration 1 The issues from Table 6 are briefly summarized below. These concerns were used in part to develop the recommendations, financial model and implementation schedule discussed in more detail later in the report. - Cost Justification: A large portion of the water meters are advanced in age and will need to be replaced in the near future to prevent steadily decreasing revenue due to the age of the meters. While the potential for future rate increases should be investigated, there is also the potential to hold rates at current levels from revenue recovered from replacing inaccurate meters. Depending on the type of system selected, there is the potential for staff reallocation to focus on other duties or staff reductions. Cost justification is a detailed issue and will be discussed in further detail in Section 4. - Staffing: Staffing issues will concern all sections with the implementation of the meter program. Staffing levels are currently at a minimum and meter systems that would reduce time requirements are an important consideration. There is currently a lot of time spent on customer service issues that could be reduced with a new meter system. The limited staffing levels also may require outsourcing for some aspects of a potential meter reading installation program. - Technology Selection: Dubuque will need to replace their current meters in the near future with either a similar system to what is currently used or a more advanced AMR system. It is important to select a system that is proven, and will be supported throughout the life of the meter. AMR systems offer additional features and benefits such as increased data and auto shut-off technology. Section I Page 16 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation - Compatibility: When the meter change-out program is begun, it is important to replace all of the meters in a timely manner to reduce the demands of supporting a mix of old and new meters. Proprietary equipment should be avoided to decrease costs and increase flexibility in the future to choose another compatible equipment supplier if necessary. - Information Wanted from the System/Data Management: The City currently does not collect detailed information, mostly due to a lack of staff to collect and manage data. An AMR system can provide information on consumption, leak detection, reverse flows, past trends and planning for future growth and water use to be complied more easily than is currently possible. The City should consider what type of information would be most useful if an AMR system is selected. - Program Implementation and Deployment: Planning is important in order to coordinate the replacement of the old meters with new. If an AMR technology is selected, then further coordination is needed to ensure that meter reading and billing are not disrupted while phasing in the new meters. If an AMR system is selected, total time until the all meters are installed would be expected to be 1 to 2 years. Procurement would be up to six months followed by about 12 to 18 months for installation. The size of the meter-change out project would be too large for City staff on top of their current responsibilities. Equipment installation and project management would most likely be outsourced. - Customer Service: City staff is often overwhelmed with the volume of utility system inquiries. Adoption of a City-wide 311 call center would reduce demands on many City departments, while providing a single point of initial contact for the citizens of Dubuque with the City. Another potential improvement for customer service would be providing customer accessible data, such as consumption and billing information on the Internet. - Public Acceptance: The cost a new system must be carefully considered in light of its benefits to gain the acceptance of the City and public. Adoption of AMR technology would eliminate the monthly meter reader, which is consistent with the majority of utility customer's preferences in favor of automated technology. - Political and Regulatory Issues: A public relations program would be important to inform the public of potential changes to water meter reading and billing, and the need to enter their homes to change out old meters. - Risk and Liability: There are several risks to consider for the meter system options. If Aquila is retained for meter reading, the City should have a Section I Page 17 ~'' ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation contingency plan in place in case Aquila or its parent company decides to exit the meter reading business. The City should also consider the additional safety and liability issues if it were decided to use City employees for meter reading. - Collaboration: In order to reduce costs there are several options to be explored. The City Fire and Police departments are considering constructing a WIFI network that could potentially be shared for water meter reading. Alliant Energy is also considering AMR technology for electricity meters and has indicated a willingness to investigate collaboration. Collaboration could include sharing the costs of a radio network or leasing the use of a network either to or from the City. Aquila has also expressed that they are willing to work with the City in the future if possible as well as during the deployment/installation period if AMR technology is selected. E. Benchmark Comparison To provide an idea of what type of meter program other water utilities are using and their experiences, national and local utilities were evaluated. Benchmarking is a useful management guidance tool, but needs to be approached with caution. There are many areas of variability between water utilities. Meter location, geography, topography, weather, costs and standards of living are just some of the variables that can affect the validity of benchmarking comparisons. National Benchmark Comparison For a national benchmark comparison, HDR referenced results of a recent survey conducted by the Ascent Group in 2004. The survey was based on the responses of 47 utilities ranging in size from 3,750 meters to 4.5 million. The survey was a mix of water/wastewater, gas, and electric utilities. In part, the Ascent.Group in this benchmarking study was attempting to: - Evaluate meter reading tactics and strategies - Identify meter reading best practices - Present the range of meter reading performance - Reveal how utilities are using technology to reduce costs and improve performance The full white paper presenting the Ascent Group's results is included as Appendix A, only the pertinent results are summarized here. Best Performing Companies were rated on their relative results in delivering low cost meter reading, high productivity and high service (low errors/skips). Utilities that were considered Best Performing were also interviewed, and metering practices analyzed to identify factors that contributed to their Section I Page 18 ~~ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation performance. Following are some of the relevant findings the "Best Performing Companies." - AMR was used selectively to address difficult to access accounts with consideration to system-wide implementation in the future. - It is important to continuously reorder meter readers routes to achieve optimum productivity, especially during AMR system deployment. - Clear and concise performance measures are essential to maximize meter readers productivity. - Formal and informal incentive/reward programs will encourage improved performance. - A combination of classroom and on-the job training allows meter readers to achieve standard levels of performance more quickly (60 days as opposed to 80 on average). The study participants noted that AMR implementation remains their "top plan for the future", while taking intermediate steps to improve operations. Approximately 30% of the utilities were actively pursuing a partial deployment of AMR, whereas 20% were planning a company wide ARM program. Of the respondents, 40% of the participants were piloting or investigating AMR with the remainder pursuing route optimization strategies. National Survey Informal telephone surveys were conducted with several large water utilities nationally to gather a comparison with different meter reading technologies and metering programs. The purpose of this information is to provide the City with an understanding of the choices other utilities have made with their metering programs. A summary is provided in Table 7. Section I Page 19 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Table 7. Summary of National Utility Meter Reading Survey Utility Number of Meters Current Meter Manufacturer Notes/Comments Technology Aiken, SC 20,000 Mobile Radio Badger Completed Akron, OH 84,000 Mobile Itron Completed Albany, NY 25,000 Mobile Badger Completed Ann Arbor, MI 27,000 Fixed Hexagram Completed Aqua, Pennsylvania 80,000 Mobile Itron In progress Atlanta, GA 150,000 Mobile Neptune In progress Boston, MA (Boston Water & Sewer 90,000 Fixed Hexagram Completed Commission Chester, PA (Chester MUA) 41,000 Mobile Sensus Completed Chicago 162,000 Mobile Badger 80,000 retrofits; balance new plastic meters Cincinnati, OH (Greater Cincinnati 240,000 Mobile Neptune In progress Waterworks Conway, SC (Grand Strand Water & 56,000 Mobile Itron Completed Sewer Authorit Corpus Christi, TX 90,000 Fixed Hexagram In progress - 150,000 water and gas meters Denver 204,000 Mobile Itron Completed Section I Page 20 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Table 7. Summary of National Utility Meter Reading Survey (Continued) Utility Number of Meters Current Meter Technology Manufacturer Notes/Comments Detroit 275,000 Fixed Itron In progress Ft Wayne, IN 75,000 Mobile Itron Completed Houston, TX 100,000 Mobile Itron Completed Kansas City, MO 160,000 Fixed Hexagram In progress Montgomery, AL 80,000 Mobile Neptune Completed Portland, ME (Portland Water District 54,000 Mobile Itron In progress Providence, RI (Providence Water Su I Board 50,000 Mobile Itron Completed United Water NJ 180,000 Mobile Neptune In progress United Water NY 60,000 Mobile Neptune In progress Washington DC (DCWASA) 125,000 Fixed Hexagram Completed Wilmington, DE 36,000 Mobile Itron Completed Some of the utilities listed in Table 7 are still in the process of installation and in various stages of completion. This is presented to provide a list of recent meter programs and is not a complete list in the US AMR market. Section I Page 21 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Regional Comparison Informal telephone surveys were conducted with several large water utilities in Iowa to gather a comparison of opinions and experiences with different meter reading technologies and metering programs. The purpose of this information is to provide the City with an understanding of the choices other local utilities have made and the challenges and successes they have experienced with their metering programs. Table 8 summarizes key items for comparison. 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U ~'o U~ U U U~ - i-G M N m Q1 m a tv N City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation The general trend of the large water utilities in Iowa is towards AMR meter technology. Five of the utilities contacted are in the process of completing a meter upgrade/replacement program. Of these five, two are installing mobile radio, one fixed radio, one touch read, and one telephone based meters. The deployment time period for these meter programs averaged about 5 years, with some noting that a shorted deployment period is preferred to an extended period, which makes system management and coordination more difficult. Two utilities said that they plan to install a mobile or fixed radio system within the next 3-5 years. Utilities that have installed AMR meters all noted satisfaction with the new meters compared to their older systems. It was decided not to collect current cost per meter read information, as the results would be too widely dispersed to make one-on-one comparisons due to the lack of standardized formulas and organization among utilities. Instead, cost comparisons of alternative meter reading methods available to the City of Dubuque are presented in Section 4. Section I Page 24 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation II. Evaluation of Meter Reading Technology Options This section provides an evaluation of meter reading technology options, including a description of available technologies, analysis of their suitability to Dubuque, discussion of meter manufacturers, and projected industry trends. A. AMR Historical Overview One of the first significant advancements towards automatic meter reading was the development of the remote meter reading system. This enabled the meter reading on the water meter register to be recorded via a drive cable or wire to a mechanical totalizer device. This device could be installed in a more accessible location than the water meter itself. For inside set meters, this meant location on the outside of a building. For pits and vault set locations, this meant a location outside of the pit or vault or underneath the lid. This resolved the.significantlncrease in access issues caused by fewer residential customers being home during normal utility meter reading hours. It also eliminated the problems associated with confined space entry. The visual outside reading device had several reliability issues that resulted in the inside meter register reading being different than the outside device. Many of these problems stemmed from the lack of maintenance/replacement of the outside device. Water intrusion was also a common problem particularly in pit situations. As a result of these problems there were minimal applications of this technology. To address the mechanical visual outside reading device problems, a direct outside reading system (touch read) was developed. The development of the encoder register, which allowed the register to be electronically interrogated, laid the platform for AMR. A reading device was plugged into a set of pins or touch pad containing an induction coil that would capture the reading directly from the meter register. These devices also had some problems with bent pins or non-numeric characters when the register was interrogated. However, their reliability and lack of maintenance requirements made them a popular replacement of the mechanical outside reading device. Advances in register sealing systems also enabled these devices to be more reliably deployed in pit and vault situations, improving reading productivity and addressing confined space issues. After the outside reading device, the next most significant advance in automated meter reading came with the development of the "electronic" meter reading book. Manual read and early touch read systems required writing the meter reading in route books or on mark sense cards. This manual entering of readings created opportunities for reading errors. The "electronic" meter reading book enabled reading information to be loaded onto these handheld devices and the reading information to be captured with little or no human intervention. Manual entry into the handhelds resulted in some errors, but significantly less than route books or mark sense cards. For touch read systems, handheld devices have progressed to point where readings are captured without any meter reading data entry by the meter reader. These devices significantly improved the read to bill processing time and reduced reading errors. Section II Page 25 ~_ ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Though the capture of meter reading data was automated, the touch type technology is not considered "automatic meter reading". The first commercially viable leap to automatic meter reading came with the development of the phone-based meter reading system. Phone read systems are operated as either dial in-bound or dial outbound systems. The dial in-bound system was based upon the meter's interface device initiating a call on apre-programmed basis to the water utility. If the line was in use at the time of the call, it would attempt to call later. Phone company cooperation was not needed for this method of reading, and the utility was not charged by the phone company for the call. The outbound system approach required the utility to initiate the call to the meter, which was done on apre-programmed automated basis as well. This approach required phone company cooperation resulting in an additional charge for phone number administration and call usage for each account. Phone read technology gained early success for large commercial and industrial accounts that needed monthly meter reading, and in utilities that were looking to significantly reduce meter reading costs. This technology suffered from perceived privacy issues, and the lack of third party cooperation from the phone company. Phone read systems deployment was all but eliminated as radio systems and cell phone networks were introduced into the market. In fact many early adopters of the phone read system have converted to or in the process of converting to radio frequency AMR systems. The next generation AMR system was Radio Frequency (RF). RF systems are currently offered as mobile or fixed network. The mobile system enables the meter reader to capture the meter reading by driving by or walking by the account. Walk-by systems do not provide significant productivity gains over touch read as meter readers must be in close proximity to the meter interface unit to "capture" a reading. Drive-by units due to its increased transmitter power and driving speed offer significant productivity gains on the order of at least ten times or more compared to touch read. The fixed network system provides an additional layer of automation in that meter readings are brought back directly to the utility on a fixed collection network that is deployed for this specific purpose. Similar to phone read systems, some fixed network systems make use of existing networks such as electric power lines, cell phone, and cable. Radio Frequency systems were initially adopted in the gas and electric utility industry because gas and electricity rates were 3 to 5 times greater than water rates that prompted movement to more frequent meter reading and billing. The same drivers that confronted gas and electric utilities have created the need to move to a higher level of reading automation in the water industry. As a result, the water industry is now experiencing a higher growth rate in AMR than other industries. While RF system meter reading has been available to water utilities for nearly 15 years, it is only recently that it has become the technology of choice for water utilities. Most water utility early adopters of AMR systems were accounts with inside set meters. However, in the late 1990's and continuing today, AMR has been adopted by accounts Section II Page 26 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation with sizable, if not exclusive pit/vault set applications. Mobile RF solutions have been deployed in Houston, TX, Richmond, VA, Charlotte, NC, Montgomery, AL, and Memphis, TN to name a few. Cincinnati, OH is nearing completion of a mobile RF system implementation. The District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority is wrapping up the largest fixed network deployment in the water industry. A fixed network solution is currently underway for Corpus Christie, TX for both water and gas meters. Bid specifications have recently been released for Kansas City, MO for its 160,000 inside/outside water accounts. Specifications and request for proposals are pending for Henrico County, VA, Northern Kentucky Water and Atlanta, GA. B. Manual Meter Reading Manual meter reading requires the meter reader to visually obtain a meter reading directly from the register located on the meter or from a visual reading device. This means the meter reader must physically gain access to the meter register or reading device. These readings are typically entered into a handheld electronic device that later downloads reading data to the billing system. Relative to the other meter reading systems on the market, manual read systems have the lowest capital cost. The water meter and registers are staples in the industry and their manufacture is highly automated resulting in inexpensive costs. Operation and maintenance costs of this meter reading system are also relatively low. Meter bodies have a good history of reliability and when failure does occur, it is generally more cost effective to replace a residential meter than it is to repair it. The meter register has also increased in reliability with the advancement of sealing techniques. Moisture under the dial face, which obscures the meter reading, rarely occurs with new meters. Operating and maintenance costs increase with the use of a generator register and visual read remotes. The low initial capital cost and ongoing operation and maintenance costs of manual read systems are greatly offset by the labor cost needed to collect readings. Productivity rates are constrained by geography, density, access, weather, and most notably by the physical ability of the meter reader. Depending upon the system used for processing the meter reading, reading errors may lead to additional customer service and field costs. Manual systems typically have the lowest productivity rates, and highest reading error rates. For industrial and commercial accounts, reading productivity, depending on the factors noted above are typically in the range of 50 to 100 reads per day, and in some cases require two meter readers in confined space situations'. For residential accounts, inside set meters with visual remotes result in productivity rates in the range of 350 to 400 reads per day, whereas meters in pit or vault settings result in productivity rates in the 300 to 500 range. Increases in meter reading frequency typically require an increase in labor. Reliability issues for the manual reading system revolve around the ability of the meter reader to gain access to the meter or reading device, and to accurately record the usage, assuming the reading device is in sync with the meter register. 1 Based on previous meter replacement projects HDR has worked on with utilities throughout the country. Section II Page 27 ~_ ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation C. Touch Read Touch read systems enable the meter reader to gather readings through an outside meter reading device (touch pad) connected to the meter register. Unlike the mechanical, manual read system, the touch read system allows for direct interrogation of the meter register. As with the manual system, the meter reader must visit every account site to obtain the meter reading from the touch read device. Readings are collected when contact is made between the handheld reading device and the outside reading device (or pad). Additional capital costs associated with this reading system are the encoder register and the outside reading device. The encoder register provides the current meter reading at time of interrogation and electronically stores the meter reading. This reading system also provides for tamper detection should the wire between the meter's register and the outside reading device be disconnected or cut. Many of the same labor costs apply to the touch read system as the manual read system. The touch read system, in a pit or vault setting, will increase reading productivity compared to manual read, but the increase is limited. Typically a touch read system in a pit application might increase productivity in the 10% to 20% range. This range might decrease if a high percentage of the pits/vaults are constantly submerged in water and have to be pumped prior to reading. Further productivity may be gained from route optimization and meter reader incentive systems. However, the productivity ceiling is limited, and as the number of meter readings increases, more readers will be required, increasing labor costs. Operating costs for the touch read system will increase over the manual read system, depending upon the failure rate of the encoder register. While the encoder register has a decent reliability record, there have been reported incidences of manufacturing failures that have resulted in non-numeric readings. The non-numeric reading causes an estimated bill to be sent or perhaps requires a re-read. Some utilities have established procedures where a field service call is not made until two consecutive non- numeric reads have taken place. Similar to the manual read system, anything that results in an estimated bill results in additional customer service. Touch read systems have generally proven to be a reliable alternative to the manual outside reading device. They have been effective at addressing confined space issues, and the outside reading pad is virtually maintenance free with no moving parts. The encoder register also provides a stepping stone to more automated forms of meter reading discussed below. However, there are instances where this technology does not perform reliably, and results in significant re-read and customer service related costs. Section II Page 28 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation D. Mobile Radio The mobile radio system enables the meter reader to collect meter readings while walking or driving by a meter equipped with a radio frequency (RF) reading device. This requires the addition of the RF reading device (also termed a meter interface unit or MIU) to the encoder meter register. The RF device is powered by a battery, and can either be an absolute encoder or digital encoder. Mobile radio represents one form of automatic meter reading (AMR), in which the meter reader is not required to physically interact with the meter to obtain a reading. As additional electronic components are added to the metering system, operating costs will rise. Electronics have a failure rate, typically in the area of less than 1 % per year. However, the major operations cost driver for an AMR system is the battery life of the RF device. The longer the battery life and life of the RF device, the more cost effective it becomes. Additional benefits accrue in situations where the meter life is the same as the RF device life, so that both the meter and MIU can be replaced at the same time. RF device products are now being offered with an estimated battery life of 10 to 20 years. Warranty coverage becomes an important component of owning and operating an AMR system, so it is important to clearly define warranty terms ahead of implementation. Additional costs will be involved for coverage beyond the standard warranty. RF devices operate in two different transmitting modes. Some systems transmit continuously, and the reading device intercepts the reading signal. These systems have a lower production cost because only signal-sending electronics are needed. The battery life for such products is approximately 10 years, though some companies offer longer battery-life guarantees. The other transmitting mode requires the RF device to be "awakened" to transmit the meter reading data. The battery life for these systems is in the 18 to 20 year range. These systems are generally more expensive because they contain sending and receiving electronics, but the additional service life may offset the additional capital cost. Operation costs might also include software licensing and upgrade fees, maintenance of reading equipment, and FCC licensing fees. Reading systems are offered in both licensed and unlicensed frequencies. Unlicensed frequencies operate in the 900 MHz range, and compete for space with other RF-operated consumer products which may cause some problems in "capturing" meter readings. Licensed systems provide the utility with its own unique operating frequency that eliminates the interference issues associated with an unlicensed frequency, thus making the system more reliable. There is an annual fee for these licensed products. Most manufacturers will assist with the licensing process. The meter reading productivity for a mobile RF system is significantly greater than for manual or touch read systems. The actual productivity achieved by a utility is based Section II Page 29 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation upon factors such as meter population density, location of the RF device, weather, temporary obstructions, and average driving speed. Typically, drive-by reading productivity has been in the range of 5,000 to 10,000 reads per day, but current systems are demonstrating significantly higher reading performance. Some utilities read during late evening hours or off-peak traffic hours to improve reading productivity even more. Given the initial capital cost of a mobile collector unit, it is better suited for high volume, repetitive work. The RF handheld reading devices (used for walking routes) have a typical reading productivity of 800 to 1,500 reads per day. Typically these devices become part of an AMR strategy used in re-reads and final readings. It is typically more cost effective to use the mobile, drive-by collector for routine meter reading functions and reserve the re- reads and final readings for the handheld collectors. AMR reading reliability is in the 98% range or better. Many specifications have this requirement built into the purchase agreement. The initial reading reliability rate may be less during the early stages of implementation, normally for non-product related issues (e.g., meter readers getting used to the equipment and reading routes). There may be some RF device location issues that might affect the range of the device. This problem occurs with higher frequencies in large meter/vault locations rather than in residential and small commercial accounts. Temporary obstruction issues such as cars parked on or near the RF device, or the device being under water will also affect transmission range and the reading rate. Such items need to be addressed and accounted for prior to pursuing equipment related issues with the vendor. Following manufacturer's installation instructions is an important consideration for reading reliability, especially in a pit set environment. For cast iron lids, maximum reading range is obtained by installing the RF device through the lid. If plastic or polymer concrete lids are used, the RF device may be installed below the lid without significantly affecting reading range. Reading range claims for RF products need to be tempered with how it will actually affect the meter reading process. There may be some degradation in the reading distance over time. However, unless the signal strength is so great that it enables the utility to consistently reduce its total drive time or mileage, the extra range may not be operationally beneficial. E. Fixed Radio Fixed radio systems offer a fully automatic meter reading capability. Meter readings are "captured" through a system of collectors located throughout the utility's service area that transmit readings back to a central utility location. The RF devices can be programmed to send the readings to the utility on at least a daily basis. Additional capital costs for this reading system include an array of collectors and repeaters positioned throughout the service territory. The number of collection units required is mainly dependent upon the topography of the area. Typically collectors are placed upon public buildings, power poles, or water towers. A specialized system server for collecting the reading data and software for its operation is needed as well, adding to the initial cost of this option. Section II Page 30 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Additional operating costs may include FCC licensing fees, cellular fees for the transmission of readings from the data collectors to the utility, hardware and software licensing fees and memory and software upgrades. The reading productivity of the fixed network system is significantly greater than that of the other options. As long as there is sufficient memory and software capacity in the collection and utility based components, the utility can collect as much usage data as it desires, without sending a meter reader or other personnel into the field. Regarding reliability, fixed network systems have the same RF device reliability ratings and issues as mobile systems. During initial project start up, some adjustments may need to be made, including relocation of the RF device to get more reliable, consistent readings. Due to temporary obstructions, meter readings at a property can be missed for several days. Meter reading policies should be established as to when to make an investigative field service call to address these missed readings. Non-numeric reads are a slight possibility with fixed network systems. Communication with the fixed network RF device can be one-way or two-way. One-way systems receive data from the RF device. Two-way systems can communicate with the device, for example to initiate a demand reading or to reprogram the reading frequency. F. Comparison of Meter Reading Technologies The four meter reading options presented earlier are compared with each other below. First, a general comparison of costs and advantages/disadvantages is provided, followed by a discussion of operational impacts, and compatibility issues among major manufacturers. General Comparison Four meter reading alternatives are compared in the matrix presented below in Table 9. Section II Page 31 ~- `N r / L y Q Z ~ LL a' V d O C 0 f/! •~ O U R d ~ _ ~+ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ W ~ C ~ ~ ~ ~ sa .Q m ~r O ~ ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~"~ V m > L ~, >, v ~ ~° ~' C •~ ,,0., O U U (a y O ~ ~~ ~ N N ~ _ ~_ QN ~ ~ N U ~ ` O ~ f`0~ N O ~ ~ N ~ ~ i ~ 01 O N ~ O_ ~ N ~ ~ O U ~ ,O fn U ~ C O U y N a7 a' f0 (~ ~ ~ a O ~ cad? ~ - ~ a t6 Qmy ~, ~ ~ ~ c U N ~ . ccc~~~o Qo ~ a~i°~ o ~ c c-ao • c°~~J~c~i~~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Qo • ~ LL ~ O O ~ ° '> w ~ U y ~~ ~ N C V~ N~ c ~a~c m C 'C O ~ >, O +' ~ C O~ O~ C O L ~ U O y N N O o~~ +0.. ~'j O U~~ C c~~~cac~•v ~~ , ~ ~ fn °'S° ~ v ntOA ~ E v u~i ~ ` ~ >, O ~~ L C ~~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ Wi p 'C E N O ~ p O O p~ (6 ~ 0 ~ ~ uj U _ 0 'O ~ M~ N U f0 ~ N ~ . 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C ~ a C N L' 'j ~- m ` E m ~ ~ m ~ ~ c 'm ~ ~° ~ ° m aUi O v O •~ ~ U S ~~ C V N ~ m ~ ~ ~ ~ ~~ ~ c m ~, 3 {6 N C N N ~ p` N N N U C `• Q~ _ C C c V V Q O y~ C~~> C C 3~ ~~ 0 3 y o ti> j c m~~ a `v C O N ~ U N °i m a ~ c R :°- c > O ~ a vii a Q o r C O N d t0 C L Q C_ d d d w O C W R Q O V d d d .~ ev F- irr M M N rn m a c V m City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Operational Impacts Investment in meter reading technology will impact utility operations for the next 10 to 20 years. This extended service period makes it difficult to predict changes in meter reading technology within that time frame. Flexibility and growth are two important criteria when considering meter reading technologies, and generate the following questions. - Does the system provide flexibility for future requirements and if not, what will it cost to provide operating flexibility? - Can the system keep pace with growth issues, such as the number of accounts, expansion of territory, and other resources needed to support that growth? Table 10 summarizes several operational parameters that are commonly affected by the meter reading system. Some of these parameters have defined, hard costs associated with them that are addressed in the cost model (see Section 4), while other parameters have less well defined soft costs that will require further research to quantify costs. Table 10. Operational Comparison of Meter Reading Alternatives Operational Parameter Manual Read Touch Pad Mobile Radio Fixed Radio Meter reading 300 to 500 reads/ 350 to 600 reads/ 5,000 to 10,000 Unlimited reads per day effort person/day person/day reads/ person/day and Meter readers focus effort higher on installs and maintenance Proactive high- Whatever can be Whatever can be Same as touch pad, Single to multiple daily bill tracking and done from monthly done from monthly unless additional reads possible with this notification readings. Too few readings. Too few reading done for high- function. data points to data points to develop bill tracking purposes. develop meaningful meaningful trend RF device with trend information. information. profiling capability provides daily usage and leak detection. Tamper and theft Based on visual Sets tamper flag if Sets tamper flag if Identifies tamper same of service inspection of meter. wire is cut or wire is cut or day and sends to collector disconnected from disconnected from unit. Utility able to identify register. Pick up at register. Pick up at next business day. time of reading or time of reading or re ort. re ort. Customize Account must stay Account must stay Account must stay Complete flexibility in reading/billing within designated within designated within designated establishing billing cycle dates billing cycle. billing cycle. billing cycle. to meet account needs. Rules and priorities need to be established. Only for accounts Only for accounts Only for accounts Can be extended to Bill consolidation within same reading within same reading within same reading accounts regardless of c cle. c cle. c cle. c cle. Section II Page 34 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Table 10. Operational Comparison of Meter Reading Alternatives (cont.) Operational Manual Read Touch Pad Mobile Radio Fixed Radio Parameter Provide Some capability, Some capability, Some capability, Daily information consumption depending on depending on system. depending on system, available. Web access profiles for high system. including on site possible. bill investigations information. and conservation Ability to monitor Whatever can be Whatever can be Same as touch pad, Single to multiple daily for leaks in done from monthly done from monthly or unless additional reads possible with this customer's or bimonthly bimonthly readings. reading done for high- function. premises readings. Too few Too few data points to bill tracking purposes. data points to develop meaningful Encoder with logging develop meaningful trend information. capability provides trend information. daily usage and leak detection. Some systems set flag for continuous usage. Actuated Valve" N/A N/A Currently unavailable Allows for remote turn-on for mobile radio, but and shut-off of water. may be offered in Saves time for customer future service and field service Monitor daily No. Must police No. Must police No, unless special Able to monitor usage (for compliance compliance manually. reading is conducted. compliance remotely. compliance with manually. conservation or watering restrictions Support Limited Limited More than touch read, Provides daily, detailed unaccounted-for but less than fixed. data. water studies Support Limited Limited More than touch read, Provides daily, detailed inflow/infiltration but less than fixed. data. studies, hydraulic modelin Support cost of Limited Limited More than touch read, Provides daily, detailed service rate but less than fixed. data. modeling Improve resource Limited Limited More than touch read, Provides daily, detailed tannin but less than fixed. data. "Currently only available from AMCO for fixed radio systems, although additional manufactures expected to offer this technology in the future G. Evaluation of Meter Reading Technology Suitability for Dubuque The City of Dubuque has specific conditions relating to the existing water meter reading program and the physical nature of the City that will play a part in determining which meter reading technology may be best suited for the City. Currently, existing water meters are comprised of roughly 70% manual read and 30% touch read. This requires all of the meters to be physically visited by the readers to get a read. With the lack of density, varied topography, certain access issues, and reliability issues with some Section II Page 35 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation remote read meters, the City's present meter reading productivity by Aquila could be sufficiently improved. The selection of a new technology for the City's water metering program must consider each of these issues to ensure that the end result is a productive and cost effective system. Below, each technology is viewed in light of the City's needs and characteristics. Manual Read The majority of the meters in the existing system use this technology. It is a trusted technology with a low capital cost and low replacement cost. But as mentioned in previous sections, human error is a more significant factor than with the other options and meter reading productivity is low compared to the alternatives. Touch Read The City has purchased mostly touch read meters since about 1995 which have performed as expected. The touch read technology typically increases reading productivity, but even in the best cases, productivity is only increased 10-20%. Meter readers are still required to make visits to each customer to query the meter, therefore the lack of density, topography and access issues are still an issue as they are with manual read meters. Touch read meters are now available with the capability to be upgraded to AMR technology. So, even if the City does not wish to purchase amobile/fixed radio read system at this time, upgrading to this technology at a later date is feasible if particular types of touch read meters are installed. Mobile Radio Some of the existing touch read meters within the City have the ability to be upgraded to radio read meters. Implementing this technology would allow the meter readers to remain in their vehicle while gathering water meter reads, thus limiting the amount of time traveling from one customer to another. After the initial retrofit of the existing meters and determining the most efficient driving routes to gather the most data, this technology may allow the capture of up to 10,000 reads per day with minimal chance for error. Topographical challenges and the lack of density will no longer be as significant an issue, as the data will be sent directly to the computer in the reader's vehicle. A licensing fee may be required for a radio frequency if the City chooses to operate a secure mobile radio read system. However, it is not expected that the City of Dubuque would have an excessive amount of competition for unlicensed frequencies in the 900 MHz range. The cost of typical radio read units will depend on the number of transmitters used. For example, if two meters are located close to each other (dual meters) they can use a common transmitter to save costs. Another option for the City is to retrofit some of the existing meters to convert them from manual read or touch read into radio read meters Section II Page 36 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation by connecting a radio read transmitter to the existing meter register. However, prior to adoption of this option, the comparative cost of making such retrofits versus full replacement should be determined. Fixed Radio This type of technology offers many advantages to the City. First, meter readings can be taken from the fixed radio network so that readers do not have to actually go out into the field for routine reads. Also, the overall accuracy of the readings is very high and the meters can be interrogated to gather information at any time. This would increase meter reading and billing efficiency. However, the technology also poses challenges in that there will need to be collector and repeater towers due to the varied topography in the Dubuque area. To actually determine how effective a fixed radio system would be, a manufacturer would typically perform a propagation study for the City and determine the specific locations where collectors and repeaters would be necessary. Licensing the radio signal for this technology would be required, and this may include additional fees for cellular transmission between towers, hardware and software fees, possible monitoring fees and potential fees for easements for the collector and repeaters. The cost per unit is the same as the mobile radio read system, but the cost for a collector tower can be about $50,000. If towers are not necessary and antennas can be mounted at strategic locations, like existing City water towers, then the cost may be reduced to about $10,000. Therefore, the total cost will depend on if towers or antennas are required. Ranking All of the factors mentioned in the above discussion were used to determine which technology would be best suited for the City, given its current program and physical limitations. The recommended ranking for meter technologies is: 7. Fixed Radio Read. This technology would provide the highest level of productivity and efficiency. The data would be sent as required through the collectors and repeaters, with no need for readers to go into the field to collect routine meter data. Each meter can be interrogated to assist with customer service issues and to gather specific meter readings. However, there is a significant capital cost for this type of system. 2. Mobile Radio Read. Being able to read meters from a vehicle and not having to visit each customer location will increase meter reading efficiency. Costs are somewhat less than for a fixed system, but will require meter readers and associated vehicles. This technology has had a proven track record for reliability over the last 10-15 years 3. Touch Read. The City has some of this type of equipment and the meter readers from Aquila are experienced in using this type of technology. If the City is required to read the meters, considerable cost for meter readers, vehicles and equipment will be incurred. Section II Page 37 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation 4. Manual Read. This technology results in the most amount of time per service because each meter box must be opened to be read. Most utilities are trending away from this approach. H. Meter Manufacturers This section presents a summary of the most common meter brands employed in the Midwest and a comparison of their products. The purpose of this information is to describe options available to the City. No rankings or recommendations regarding vendors are provided. Meter Evaluation Parameters To evaluate the different brands of water meters that are available to the City, a set of parameters was developed to compare and contrast the vendors. These parameters were chosen because they are considered to be important features of the meter and reading technology that will affect the productivity of the meter reader and the life-cycle cost of the meter. Radio Signal Transmission DSSS (Direct Sequence Spread Spectrum) - A technique where the transmitted energy is spread over a wide bandwidth. A conventional narrowband (NB) radio typically occupies 12.5 kHz of bandwidth, while a DSSS radio could occupy a 2 MHz bandwidth (160 times wider). Spreading the energy over a wide bandwidth reduces the energy density and thus interference to other NB users. FH (Frequency Hopping) -Another form of spread spectrum. An FH radio is a narrowband radio that changes its frequency periodically. The FCC requires that the radio hop in at least 50 different channels before it repeats the same sequence. An FH receiver cannot suppress interference like a DSSS receiver, since it is a narrowband radio. FH applications avoid, rather than suppress, interference. Signal Transmission Power When transmitting a radio signal, there are limitations set by the FCC as to the strength of the signal that is allowed. Meters with a higher transmission power will allow the signal to travel farther and have less chance of interference, providing greater reliability and consistency. DSSS signal transmission is permitted by the FCC to transmit at power levels up to 1.0 watt. FH signal transmission can be up to 1.0 watt if it is transmitting on at least 50 channels, but only 0.7 watt if operating on less than 50 channels. Section II Page 38 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Communications There are two types of communication when dealing with radio read water meters: 1. One-way communication means that the water meter transmits information at a fixed time interval regardless of whether anyone is receiving the information. For example, cone-way transmitter will transmit the meter information via radio signal every 14 seconds for 24 hours per day, 7 days per week, and 52 weeks per year. Given that the signal will only be read about once every two months during the reading cycle, considerable battery life will be wasted making the other signal transmissions. To conserve battery life, the meter supplier limits the amount of information that is transmitted. 2. Two-way communication means that the meter reader sends a signal to the meter; the meter acknowledges that it is being interrogated, and then the meter transmits a radio signal. The only time the battery is being used to transmit a radio signal is when a meter reader has asked for the information. Therefore, the life of the battery is extended and the meter can transmit much more information without draining the battery. Two-way communication also includes alert signals which notify the user that a successful transmission has been completed. With this confirmation, mis-reads are avoided. Other features include password protection, diagnostic capabilities and the ability to adjust features remotely without visiting each site. Batteries In virtually all cases, batteries for AMR systems now come with a 20-year warranty, which includes a 10-year full replacement warranty, and a 10-year pro-rated warranty. In many cases, at the end of the battery life, the utility will choose to upgrade the meter technology rather than replace the battery. Some manufacturers build their meters such that the battery is separable from the meter register and the transmitter. This type of meter allows the battery to be replaced in the field without having to remove the register or the transmitter. In contrast, some manufacturers build their meters so that the battery is integral with the meter register and/or transmitter. This type of meter required replacement of the register and/or transmitter in order to replace the battery. There is a significant cost savings in having a field replaceable battery in that the meter readers are able to do this in the field with minimal tools and effort, and the cost reflects only that of the replacement battery and not the entire register. For example, Sensus has a field replaceable battery that costs about $25, whereas Master Meter has the battery integral with the register and costs about $135 to replace the entire register. There are many different meter brands that have been proven successful by utilities in the Midwest. Utilities select brands of water meters for different reasons, and many have switched brands because of issues related to capital cost, customer service, availability of technology, or poor O&M history. For the most popular or widely used meter manufacturers in this area, below is a summary of the equipment available from Section II Page 39 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation each. Table 11 provides a summary of each of these meter brands and a comparison of features. Table 11. Meter Brands Commonly Used in the Midwest Vendor Available Radio Signal Signal Transmission Communications Battery Field Replaceable Technology Transmission Power Life Batte ? Touch Fixed Sensus Network Radio DSSS Up to 1 watt Two-way 20 year Warranty Yes Mobile Radio Touch Fixed Badger Network Narrow Band Less than 1 One-way 20 year No (Orion) Radio watt Warranty Mobile Radio Touch Fixed Neptune Network Radio FH' Up to 1 watt One-way 20 year Warranty Yes Mobile Radio Touch Fixed Master Meter Network Radio DSSSZ Up to 1 watt Two-way 20 year Warranty No Mobile Radio Touch Fixed AMCO Network Radio DSSSZ Up to 1 watt One-way 20 year Warranty Yes Mobile Radio Touch Fixed Hersey Network Narrow Band Up to 1 watt One-way 20 year No Radio Warranty Mobile Radio Frequency Hopping Direct Sequence Spreading Spectrum Section II Page 40 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Sensus The majority of meters currently used by the City are manufactured by Sensus. Sensus produces two main types of residential water meters for use with their Touch Read and AMR technologies. The antenna for the radio read meters must be mounted to the underside of the meter box. This can cause some problems when dealing with steel lids in traffic areas, and with tampering/vandalism. An added feature of the Sensus system is the two-way transmission capability, which means that the Sensus meter transmitter unit transmits only when interrogated by a meter reader. This results in extended battery life as the transmitter can remain in a sleep mode until it receives a "wake up" signal. Another feature of the Sensus brand of reading equipment is that it is completely compatible with Neptune meters. Neptune Neptune's water meters are presently based on the T-10 meter. The T-10 is a proven reliable meter with the capability to be converted to AMR technology. The Neptune meters have aone-way communication with a transmission every 14 seconds. To conserve battery life, the amount of information transmitted is usually limited. Other features of the Neptune meters include the fact that the E-Coder registers are fully integrated without any exposed wires, and they have leak and reverse flow detection. Badger The main residential meter produced by Badger is the Record-All meter. All of the Record-All meters are compatible with a Badger AMR system, with the addition of a transmitter or an encoder register. Master Meter The Master Meter radio read system is fully compatible with most existing products and offers advantages, including a wireless connection for the transmitter, a data logging feature that will hold up to 4,000 individual reads and leak tamper and backflow protection. The Master Meter AMR product is completely self-contained with the RF radio, antenna and water register sealed together under the glass of the register. AMCO The Elster AMCO new evolution fixed network AMR is an intelligent two-way system solution for water utilities. The new evolution has just made is debut at the AVWVA national conference in Toronto. It has a unique feature that uses an actuated valve to allow shut-offs and turn-ons to be controlled remotely. This feature could provide savings in time and money spent on field service visits. Section II Page 41 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Hersey Hersey can provide a complete package including enclosed meters, radio transmitters, receivers, handheld or laptop computers, and software. The open architecture design of the system means that the AMR components are highly compatible with other AMR equipment. Compatibility of AMR Systems An important consideration in making an AMR investment is the level of open architecture that the City is interested in achieving. The "plug and play" options for AMR are limited depending upon the open architecture of the RF devices. For example, the meter and meter register are normally produced by the same manufacturer, though several makes of meters may be deployed throughout a system. However, the meter reading system (i.e., RF device, collection devices and software) is normally produced by a different manufacturer, creating "zones" of proprietary product. Another consideration in making an AMR investment is the ability of the meter reading technology to interface with other utility systems or software applications. While this may have been an issue in the past, these concerns have been mitigated as reading and meter manufacturers are working to standardize software protocol. The benefits of open architecture include the ability to use more than one meter vendor's product with existing utility systems and applications. The downside of open architecture is that it may allow for a variety of products to be installed throughout a system over time, if allowable brands are not limited. This can lead to lack of standardization for replacement parts and increases in inventory costs. The following tables present a compatibility comparison between the various major meter brands and AMR systems that are currently on the market. Table 12 summarizes mobile radio systems and Table 13 summarizes fixed network systems. A relatively new manufacturer is Datamatic, which offers mobile and fixed radio systems with a unique "mesh" radio network that sends the meter signal to other meters that relays the signal to the central office. The meters can communicate problems and re-route signals if needed. Expensive radio collectors are eliminated from this system. Section II Page 42 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Table 12. Compatibility among Major AMR and Meter Manufacturers for Mobile Radio Systems .AMR Meter Brand Brand Sensus Ne tune Bad er AMCO Sensus -Radio Read Yes Yes No' No Neptune - R900 Yes Yes No No Badger - ORION Yes2 Yes2 Yes Yes -digital & Scancoder AMCO -TRACE No3 No3 Yes - RTR No-ADE Yes -digital encoder ITRON - ERT Yes Yes Yes Yes 1. Sensus is developing technology to read Badger registers. 2. Badger recently introduced a universal ORION RF device that is capable of reading selected Sensus/Neptune and AMCO encoders. Different device needed to read Badger's digital encoder. 3. AMCO in process of imbedding Sensus protocol into its encoders. Table 13. Compatibility among Major AMR and Meter Manufacturers for Fixed Network Systems AMR Meter Brand Brand Sensus Ne tune Bad er ' AMCO Sensus -Nexus Yes Yes No No Neptune - R900 Micro Yes Yes No No Badger -Galaxy No -not for initial release No -not for initial release Yes No -not for initial release Hexagram -Star' Yes Yes Yes Yes Itron -Fixed 2.52 Yes Yes Yes Yes 2. Hexagram is marketed directly, through AMCO, and other meter vendors. Different RF device is needed for absolute and digital encoders. Itron Fixed Network 2.5 uses one RF device for either absolute or digital encoders. I. Projected Industry Trends Near-term AMR manufacturers (i.e., those that have solely manufactured AMR devices, like Itron, Hexagram and Datamatic) have been providing devices that are compatible with various metering products for many years. Meter manufacturers that have manufactured, or marketed their own line of proprietary meter reading products have also been branching out to make their RF devices more compatible with other vendors' meters. Meter manufacturers have also been developing their own lines of mobile and fixed network products in order to add value to their metering product line. Meter manufacturers are building more capabilities into their encoder registers to address the movement towards fixed network systems. Additional capabilities have also been built into some drive-by mobile systems to provide more than a single day's reading when interrogated. As a result, utilities are currently offered more equipment choices, and more competitive prices, than ever before. Section II Page 43 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Another promising development is "high powered" fixed network systems. These systems result in significantly less collection device infrastructure, such as the new Datamatic mesh network. Depending upon the size and topographical conditions of the utility, these fixed network systems may be priced at, or close to, mobile drive-by systems. Although a certain level of "plug and play" capability may exist with some equipment manufacturers, in the near term the market should still expect a continued level of proprietary products from AMR and meter vendors. Utilities should be cautioned as certain system hardware and software may not have a high degree of interoperability. Five to ten years Even with the advent of "high powered" fixed network systems, which is still proprietary, there is continued movement to making use of existing public networks. Public networks include phone lines, cable, power lines, cellular phone, and the Internet (wireless fidelity (WIFI)). Efforts are underway on how to tap these existing networks to offer the utility a more cost-effective AMR alternative. Cost-effective gateways into these networks are being developed, such as short hop radio, which will enable the water meter to send its signal to the electric meter for use by power line carrier systems. Some utilities are also finding efficiencies by partnering with local electric or gas companies to share in meter reading and data management. There is also some research and development occurring with regard to satellite reading systems. This technology may see significant advances in the ten year time frame. Section II Page 44 ~_ ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation III. Cost Analysis of Metering Options This section provides a cost analysis of implementing the meter reading technology options presented in the previous section. The analysis methodology is described, followed by the cost evaluation results, a discussion of payback periods, and summary conclusions that are carried forward into the overall meter program evaluation presented in Section 5. A. Methodology There are many factors to consider in selecting a meter reading approach and developing a meter replacement program. Section 3 provided an examination of the various available meter reading technologies and assessed the suitability of each to the City, based primarily on operations and maintenance related criteria. This analysis builds upon that effort by looking in more detail at the relative costs of the meter reading technologies, when implemented over various time periods and in conjunction with different billing cycles. The sections below define the scenarios that were analyzed and describe the cost model developed specifically for the City to evaluate the scenarios. Alternatives Considered Due to the large number and complexity of variables involved, there are a large number of possible meter reading alternatives that could be considered. With input from the City, HDR analyzed the cost impacts of four meter reading alternatives with a two year deployment plan. All of the alternatives account for the cost of new water meters. The four scenarios were as follows: 1. Touch read with Aquila meter readers. Meters would be replaced with touch read meters and the City would continue to contract meter reading services to Aquila. The cost of contracting to Aquila was estimated based on historical rate increases although it is difficult to predict costs over the 20 year planning period. 2. Touch read with City meter readers. The meters would be replaced with touch read meters and City employees would be responsible for meter reading. 3. Mobile Radio. All meters would be replaced with mobile radio meters which would be operated by City staff. 4. Fixed Radio. All meters would be replaced with fixed radio meters which would be operated by City staff. Section III Page 45 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation B. Development of Cost Model The above scenarios were analyzed in a spreadsheet cost model that calculates the net present value (NPR c2~ of implementation costs over a 20-year planning horizon. A detailed summary of the cost model results is presented in Appendix B. Per-read costs are also generated for each meter reading technology, allowing for normalized comparison among alternatives. The cost analysis considered meter purchase and installation costs based on information provided by the City on the number and size of meters. The cost analysis assumes all meters will be purchased by the City, although in many cases, large industrial and commercial meters are often purchased by the customers. The model results are especially sensitive to meter equipment pricing, particularly the cost of the meter interface unit. The price of the meter interface had a large impact on the results. Reducing the price of the meter interface unit changed the net present value ranking of alternatives. The rate of deployment and meter reading productivity also impacted the ranking of results. For this reason, the City is encouraged to investigate the cost of meter reading equipment more thoroughly through a competitive bidding process. The cost model utilizes information provided by the City, as well as industry information and data that were gathered from other utility projects that HDR has worked on. The City provided detailed information related to the water meter reading program, the number of water meters within the system, the salary and benefit information for the water meter readers and the billing staff, and information relating to the amount of customer service calls required by the meter readers. Some of the major parameters considered by the model include: • Meter Reading and Customer Service Characteristics o Estimated number of meters and reads per day o Estimated number of customer service calls per day o Meter reading and field visit productivity o Present staffing levels • Operating Costs o Salary/Benefits o Education o Material and supplies o Contract services o Fuel o Insurance z In this case, net present value is the future cost of meter reading operations and capital investment presented in current dollars. It takes into account the time value of money where in order to have $1.06 available to pay for operations and capital one year from today, the City would need to invest $1.00 at 6% annual interest. Section III Page 46 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation o Meter reading equipment maintenance • Capital Expenses o Vehicles o Meters and reading equipment o Equipment replacement schedules and costs In the calculation of costs, all yearly capital and operating costs over a 20-year planning horizon are taken into account and converted to present day dollars. The yearly costs include an inflation factor for operating and capital costs, which are currently based on industry standards and local information where available. As with all information presented in a cost model, the equipment costs are estimated and may change significantly during an open bidding process. Other notable assumptions used in the development of the model include the following: • A two year deployment period was used for all of the scenarios. The meter population growth factor for the City of Dubuque is 1 % per year. • The growth factor for Aquila meter reading services is 3% per year, based on past average annual increases. • The growth factor for meter reader salaries is 3.5% per year. • The growth factor for other employee benefits ranges from 3.5% - 5.0% per year. • The cost for equipment maintenance increases at a rate of 2.5% per year. • The cost for meter reading vehicles is expected to increase at 3.5% per year. • The cost for meter reading equipment is expected to increase at 2.5% per year. • The discount interest rate and the loan interest rate (for State Revolving Funds) are 4.8% and 3.25%, respectively as of October, 2007. • Meter reading equipment, such as interrogators, etc, is expected to have a usable service life of 5 years. • The components of the mobile drive-by radio and fixed radio systems have useable service lives ranging from 10 to 20 years. All of the alternatives include annual costs for field service representatives and their associated vehicle and equipment expenditures. These field service representatives are currently employed for maintenance and installation issues and all of the alternatives considered would require a varying number of employees regardless of the meter technology selected. The cost for these field service representatives is not a completely new cost to the City, although it could fluctuate based on the meter technology selected. Over time the costs associated with field service workers increases as more employees are required due to increased meter population and/or increased staffing costs. Section III Page 47 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation C. Present Value Cost Analysis Present value costs were calculated for each alternative and differentiated in terms of operating, capital, and project management/procurement to illustrate their relative contribution to the overall present value cost (Figure 1). The project management and procurement cost represents the costs for developing specifications, soliciting bids and project management. This cost is preliminarily assumed to be $15 per meter. The City does not have sufficient staff to oversee a meter replacement program and would require an outside party to handle the day to day management of the project, such as scheduling site visits, inspections, oversight and other required tasks. Figure 1 shows that operational costs are a greater percentage of the overall cost for the systems that do not utilize AMR technology, due to the more labor-intensive operating needs of touch read systems. The AMR systems have greater capital costs (for the radio transmitters and computer equipment), but a significantly lower operational cost as a percentage of the overall present value cost. The fixed radio and mobile drive- by options have similar total present values, with slightly higher operating costs for mobile systems due to increased staffing and vehicle needs. Capital costs for fixed radio systems have decreased significantly in recent years, making the decision between fixed and mobile radio systems more competitive. The touch read with Aquila reader option has the lowest overall present value due to relatively low operating costs combined with low capital costs. However, this cost estimate assumes a stable growth is the cost for contracting meter reading services to Aquila, as well as the availability of Aquila to read meters for the next 20 years. Figure 2 shows the real dollar values for each of the options. The real dollar amounts for the two touch read options increased more than the radio options due to higher operation (staffing) costs which steadily increase over the service life. The majority of the cost for the fixed radio option is the capital cost over the deployment period, with lower operating costs that results in the lowest real dollar costs. Section III Page 48 ~- ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Figure ~. Present value costs Section III Page 49 ~~ " City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation 20-Year Planning Horizon Operating Costs $5.00 $4.00 ~ $3.00 m ~ ~~, f.ar in a v $2.00 $1.00 $- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Years ~-Touch Read -Aquila -~-Touch Read -City -*-Drive-By Radio -Fixed Radio Figure 3. Operating Cost per Read Section III Page 51 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation 20-Year Planning Horizon Operating, Debt Service + Capital Cost $8.00 $7.00 $6.00 ~ $5.00 m a a $4.00 .. H O V $3.00 $2.00 $1.00 $- 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 Year f Touch Read -Aquila f Touch Read - City ~ Drive-by Radio ~ Fixed Radio Figure 4. Operating and Capital Cost per Read E. Revenue Recovery and Payback Another method of analyzing the financial impacts of the various metering technologies is to evaluate the revenue recovery associated with replacement of old, under-recording meters with new, more accurate equipment. This allows for a payback period calculation. To conduct a simplified payback period analysis, the estimated annual revenue recovery is divided into the total present value of implementation costs. For this analysis, the estimated annual revenue recovery is calculated by considering a general estimate of the present level of meter inaccuracies (i.e., low readings) in conjunction with the current revenue based on the water meters. In Section 2, City-wide meter inaccuracies were calculated as ranging from 5 to 15 percent, based on application of "rule-of-thumb" trends to meter age. Therefore, in the absence of other test data, a range of meter inaccuracies has been considered for this payback period analysis: 5 to 15 percent. Total water and wastewater revenue based on water meter readings for fiscal year 2007 totaled $8,569,561. Assuming that this amount was low compared to the total potential revenue by between 5 and 15 percent, then lost revenue during this year was on the order of $428,000 to $1,285,000. These levels of revenue were divided into the present value costs for each technology option considered in each scenario (as described Section III Page 52 J~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation earlier in this Section) to arrive at the number of years to achieve payback of implementation of a metering program involving replacement of all meters. Table 14 presents the payback period considering total capital, operating costs, and project management costs. To separate the influence of the operating costs on the payback period, Table 15 considers only the capital costs. When considering total costs, the touch read-Aquila and fixed radio options have the same payback period, 9-28 years. Traditionally, capital costs are used for this type of analysis and the payback for the capital only costs is much lower and ranges from 3 to 10 years for the touch read Aquila option and 5-15 years for the fixed radio. This revenue recovery analysis is based on estimates of meter inaccuracies. If the City were to implement a meter testing program and determine an actual range of meter inaccuracies based on test results, more weight could be placed upon the revenue recovery analysis. Until such information is available, this analysis should be considered preliminary, and viewed as useful in terms of comparing relative levels of payback period times amongst the various alternatives, as opposed to accurate determinations of payback periods. Furthermore, it should be noted that this analysis assumes water rates are not adjusted to account for the fact that consumption values increase. It is possible that rates may in fact be lowered (or simply not increase as anticipated) to maintain a true cost-of-service financial model for the utility. If such adjustments occur, the payback period analysis would need to be revisited. Table 14. Revenue Recovery / Payback Years to Pa back at Given Inaccurac Alternative NPV Total Cost 5% 10% 15% Touch Read - A uila $12,067,893 28 14 9 Touch Read - Cit $13,850,953 32 16 11 Mobile Drive-B Radio $12,253,466 29 14 10 Fixed Radio $11,830,374 28 14 9 Table 15. Revenue Recovery / Payback Years to Pa back a t Given Inaccu rac Alternative NPV Capital Cost 5/0 10% 15/0 Touch Read - A uila $4,459,972 10 5 3 Touch Read - Cit $4,634,377 11 5 4 Mobile Drive-B Radio $5,979,399 14 7 5 Fixed Radio $6,369,962 15 7 5 Section III Page 53 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation F. Conclusions Key summary observations can be made from the cost analysis results presented above. Detailed conclusions and recommendations will be provided in Sections 5 and 6. Briefly, these include: - A short deployment period is recommended for new meter reading technologies, which results in a lower PV cost to the City over a 20-year planning horizon. This is primarily due to a rapid decrease in the operating cost per read for AMR (mobile and fixed radio read) systems. - Touch read-Aquila and fixed radio systems have nearly the same total present value cost, and are lower than the other options. It should be noted that it is more difficult to forecast future costs for the Aquila option than for a fixed radio system. - The fixed and mobile radio systems tended to have lower operating costs and higher capital costs compared to touch read systems. Operating costs are primarily influenced by employee related costs, which are more likely to increase over the service life of the meter system than capital costs. - The estimated payback or revenue recovery period for implementation of a City- wide meter replacement program is fairly similar for all of the options, with touch read-Aquila and fixed radio being slightly lower. Section III Page 54 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation IV. Recommendations and Conclusion There are many factors to consider when implementing a meter replacement program as discussed in this Plan. To this point, this Plan document has focused on meter reading technologies and their relative costs. This information is now evaluated in conjunction with other key factors to guide the City in making program-related decisions. The primary elements of a meter replacement program for which decisions or actions are needed include: - Meter reading technology - Collaboration opportunities - Deployment time period for new meters and reading technologies - Deployment time period and strategies - Meter maintenance and management Each of these elements is evaluated below, with findings carried forward into the Plan recommendations presented in Section 6. A. Meter Reading Technologies: Evaluation of Other Considerations There are two categories of considerations when evaluating metering technologies. The first is the cost of the technology and the second is the non-financial impact of the technology on customers and City operations. Four meter reading technologies have been discussed throughout this Plan: manual read, touch read, mobile radio read, and fixed radio read. General comparisons between the options were made in Section 3, and a detailed cost analysis was presented in Section 4. Other non-cost factors are viewed by City staff as being at least as important as the financial impacts of implementing this type of a program. Therefore, an exercise involving City staff from multiple departments was conducted at the water service meter strategies workshop to capture the other factors important to the City and understand how they might influence which meter reading technology is best suited for the City. Details of the issues discussed at the workshop can be found in Section 1-D. Some of the non-cost considerations identified as most important to the City are: - Staffing - Technology Selection - Compatibility - Information Wanted from the System/Data Management - Program Implementation and Deployment - Customer Service Section IV Page 55 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation - Public Acceptance - Political and Regulatory Issues When considering the cost and non-cost considerations, the AMR technology options would be best suited for the City of Dubuque. While the touch read-Aquila option is competitive in terms of overall present value costs with the AMR options, it does not offer many of the potential customer service benefits deemed important by City staff. In addition, non-AMR technology has the highest operational costs, which are more likely to increase in the future compared to capital costs. B. Collaboration Opportunities In order to reduce costs there are several options to be explored. Even with the advent of "high powered" fixed network systems, which are still largely proprietary, there is continued movement to making use. of existing networks such as phone lines, cable, power lines, cellular phone and the Internet (wireless fidelity (WIFI)). Efforts are underway on how to tap into these existing networks to offer the utility a more cost- effective AMR alternative. The City conducted a feasibility study in August of 2005 to construct aCity-managed utility to provide wireless network/internet (WIFI) connectivity to residential and commercial customers as well as for City Departments' use. At this time it does not appear to be of much benefit for the ARM project to collaborate with the wireless network/internet project. The capital cost to construct the City-managed wireless network/internet was estimated to be 8.1 million dollars over the first five years. Operating costs in the fifth year for the network were estimated to be approximately 1.2 million. Figures 5 and 6 illustrate the major components of a City WIFI network and fixed radio water meter system. The significant difference between the two systems is that the City WIFI network uses expensive, high bandwidth fiber optic cable to send the collected wireless signals to the central office. The fixed radio water meter network requires lower bandwidth and a much lower number of tower installations as well. Section IV Page 56 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Wireless ~a+ Customer ~ s ~N+ Gentral Wireless Wireless Wireless -~ Wireless Officel Fiber Optic wi~ao:: s. jai Cable gateway Signal Node Gustomer Billing H`ireJes s s;gy,a~ Wireless Customer Figure 5. City Wireless Network Schematic Water Meter Radio Central Radio RFIPhane Gollector! Radio l .Signal Raafo sl, nab Office! Si ater Meter gna Signal Re eater Billing P Collector R~~o Sr nal Water Meter Figure 6. Fixed Radio Water Meter Network Schematic There is a limited area of potential equipment sharing between the two systems. Water meter radio signal collectors and WIFI nodes would still be required, as would the fiber optic network to transmit the data to the central ofFce. Fiber optic cable would be required to meet the capacity demands of the internet/computer users on the WIFI network. The potential to save capital costs in this type of integrated system is minor as is shown in Table 16, which presents the estimated costs per tower for each type of system. Costs for the WIFI system are based on the 2005 feasibility study. Section IV Page 57 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Table 16. Estimated Cost per Tower Cost per Tower Estimated Number Total Tower Cost Re aired WIFI Node $ 4,100 600 $ 2,460,000 WIFI Gatewa $ 2,000 100 $ 200,000 Fixed Radio Collector/Re eater $ 10,000* 14* $ 140,000 "Based on estimated equipment, site and installation costs and network requirements and subject to revision following final design In terms of operational costs, an employee could be shared for maintenance of the two systems, although total savings would be relatively small compared to the overall costs. There could also be potential in sharing an employee for information technology duties depending on the final requirements of the system constructed. Some utilities are also finding efficiencies by partnering with local electric or gas companies to share in meter reading and data management. Alliant Energy, the local electric provider is also considering AMR technology for electricity meters and has indicated a willingness to investigate collaboration. Aquila, the local gas provider has also expressed that they are willing to work with the City during the deployment/installation period if AMR technology is selected. Aquila has also expressed interest in potential collaboration on a mobile drive-by radio water meter system. Alliant Energy has just selected Sensus Metering Systems to implement their advanced metering infrastructure across its entire service territory, in the states of Wisconsin, Iowa, and Minnesota. Pilots are beginning in Wisconsin over the next two years, but depending on the results, the timing maybe far too far out to affect the Dubuque service area by the time a water meter replacement program is started. Possible collaboration options include sharing the cost of a common meter infrastructure or leasing use of the system either to or from Alliant. Continued discussion with both Alliant and Aquila would be recommended. As part of further discussions, the City should consider three general collaboration options: - Sharing the cost of a new system - Leasing a portion of a system owned by another utility - Building a new system and leasing a portion of it to another utility C. Deployment Time Period and Strategies The time period involved in implementing a new water meter reading/billing approach can greatly influence the cost of the program. Typically, a utility the size of Dubuque could realize full implementation of a new technology (i.e., applied to all service meters) within two years if this work is performed by a contractor. To conduct the effort in house with current staff may take on the order of ten years. A two year deployment time Section IV Page 58 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation period was considered in the cost analysis. As mentioned previously, a long deployment period spreads the capital costs over a longer time period, but a shorter deployment period will ultimately save money over the long run as operational and management costs are lowered more quickly. Deployment Strategies Water meter deployment strategies available to the City can generally be defined as follows and are summarized in Table 17: - Geographical -This involves replacing meters based on the geographical location and meter reading route. The meters would be replaced without regard to their age or type, but this is often the most efficient approach. - Surgical -This involves replacing meters based on locations that pose problems to the meter readers because of access difficulty. This may include meters that are located along busy streets, or meters that are on difficult slopes. This strategy would help to increase the efficiency of the meter reading process as less time would be used to read meters in these difficult locations. - Opportunistic -This involves replacing specific water meters based on age and/or known accuracy problems. This method would result in quicker elimination of problematic meters and realization of lost revenue. Table 17. Discussion of Deployment Strategies Strategy Advantages to the City Disadvantages to the City Geographical Could be accomplished without Would take longer to replace the disrupting meter reading operations. specific meters that are the most Would be very efficient in the time it inaccurate. takes to replace the meters. Surgical Reduced risk to meter readers in difficult Would take longer to replace all locations. meters due to travel time. Increase efficiency of meter readers. Opportunistic Replaces specific meters that are giving Would take longer to replace all the City most problems. meters due to travel time. Increase efFciency of meter readers. Overall metering system accuracy would be improved quickly. To determine which strategy is best suited for the City, the specific challenges faced by the City must be revisited. These include: - Continuous meter turn-on and turn-off due to transient (college) population - Inaccuracy of the older water meters, regardless of technology Section IV Page 59 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation - Inaccurate readings of meters causing customer complaints, work orders, and billing adjustments Based on these problems, it seems that it would be prudent to identify the most problematic water meters in the system, and then adopt the Opportunistic deployment strategy for the initial replacement of the City's meters. This would allow the City to reap immediate benefits by replacing meters that are aged and reading inaccurately, adversely affecting the City's revenue stream. After the problematic meters are initially replaced, then the City should switch to a Geographical deployment strategy, which would involve replacement based on meter- reading routes. This will help to speed up the replacement and allow the meter readers/Aquila to organize the meter reading routes by technology during the transition. D. Meter Maintenance and Management Historically, the City has not implemented a formal meter replacement program. The current practice is to replace a water meter only after it has been identified (often by customers) and confirmed as one that is no longer registering accurately. Minimal meter testing and maintenance has occurred since this last meter replacement program. By contrast, a formal meter maintenance program involves routine testing of older meters to maintain a database of information related to meter age, location, and level of accuracy. By compiling such data, informed decisions as to replacement schedules can be made. In the past, water meters were typically replaced about every 10-15 years. With advances in technology, new water meters are typically remaining in systems for 15-20 years before inaccuracies require their replacement. This is consistent with the battery warranties of most AMR manufacturers. However, AWWA Manual M6 cites water quality as having the potential to have a detrimental effect on the performance (i.e. accuracy) of a meter. Examples of water quality issues are build-up of chemicals from the water or abrasive materials carried by water. Zones within a municipality's distribution system supplied by different sources could create zones with different water quality and, therefore, zones with different potentials for water quality induced meter accuracy issues that can lead to shortened meter life spans. Although Dubuque has high quality water, a determination of whether or not such conditions exist in the City of Dubuque can not be made with confidence, due to the lack of meter accuracy data. Meter Testing -Before Meter Replacement Program The City's meter maintenance and management program should begin with the statistical sample of large and small meters to be tested over 10 years of age. This testing would provide the hard data on actual meter inaccuracies in order to better determine the revenue recovery. The results of the meter testing can be incorporated into an updated cost model to help better justify the estimated cost savings of implementing a meter replacement program. Due to staffing limitations this program should be contracted out and based on testing a 100 to 150 meter sampling, the Section IV Page 60 ~- ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation program would be approximately $50,000 depending on the number of large meters tested. New Meter Testing Protocol -During Meter Replacement Program It is recommended that the City establish a new meter testing protocol. During the procurement process, specify as a requirement that the manufacturer provide certified meter test results. Certified test results may be easily transferred to a database thus establishing the complete history of a meter. The database can be referenced for inspection or maintenance work, or to address customer concerns. A statistical sample testing of new meter shipments to verify accuracy and to maintain confidence in manufacturer test results is an efficient cost alternative to testing every new meter. For the City of Dubuque approximately one-half to one percent of all new meters randomly should be tested, based on 22,000 new meters, 110-220 meter would require testing over the two year installation. Future Meter Testing Protocol -After Meter Replacement Program Whether drive-by or fixed network is selected, the future random sampling of meters should continue. As proven from the City's past meter test sampling program, meters can perform accurately for many years, and are generally not economical to repair. The best practices approach to residential meter management is monitor the performance of the meters through a combination of statistical sampling and watching for individual consumption anomalies that could indicate underperforming or stuck meters. The principal is that all the meters in a given size/age/make class should be homogenous, and expected to behave and age similarly. Conversely, one manufacturer's meters could perform and age slightly differently than another's. Meters decline in accuracy slowly with age. They are guaranteed to be accurate for the first five years, so there is no reason to test them during this time period, except for those that are seriously under-registering which may be stuck. Starting at age five years, small meters should be monitored for accuracy through statistical sampling, using the following protocol. Each year, a statistically significant random sample of meters from each size/age/make class should be scheduled for removal and test. The sample size will be 50-100 for each class, depending on the class size and level of confidence required. These meters should be tested under controlled conditions (that is, they shouldn't be excessively jostled or banged around during transport, the ends should be capped upon removal from service to prevent the meter from drying out, and the meter should be tested right away (within a few days of removal). The meters should be tested at three flow rates depending on size (for example 1/4 gallons per minute, 2 gallons per minute, and 15 gallons per minute), low flow first, following AWWA procedures. Section IV Page 61 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation The small meters removed during random sampling should be replaced by meters from new stock or from inventory. These meters should be assigned the appropriate size/age/make class. In accord with statistical theory, if the class of meters is homogenous, and if the random sample from that class is determined to be accurate, then the City can be confident the entire size/age/make class is accurate. If the sample results fail the accuracy criteria, then the entire class can be presumed to fail the accuracy criteria, and every meter in the class should be scheduled for replacement. In fact, if the sample is showing signs of nearing the accuracy limits, the City can plan for a future change-out of that class. Following this procedure, when should asize/age/make class be replaced? The time to replace a small meter is when the revenue lost from the decline in accuracy by leaving the meter in for another year exceeds the costs (both of the meter and the labor to replace it) deferred by postponing the change out another year. This optimal point in time is dependent on the price of water (and wastewater), the rate at which the accuracy of the meter declines, the cost of a new meter and the cost of the labor to replace the old meter. Section IV Page 62 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation V. Meter Plan Summary The City of Dubuque's existing water meters are represented by a wide variety of brands and ages, with a high percent of meters likely not producing data at desired accuracy levels. The timing is appropriate for the City to initiate asystem-wide water meter replacement program to further the objectives of obtaining revenue recovery with more accurate water use information, minimize meter reading costs, along with maintaining a standardized inventory of equipment. A water service meter plan is presented below. The intent of the plan is to guide development and implementation of the water meter replacement program. It is comprised of recommendations pertaining to primary meter replacement program elements, as well as a summary of key implementation steps. A. Recommendations The recommendations outlined here are organized by the meter replacement program elements discussed in detail in Section 5. In most cases there are multiple options to be considered by the City. Bold text indicates the recommended or preferred options. Together with the suggested implementation steps, these selected options constitute the preferred strategic plan. Alternative strategic approaches may be developed by selection of other options for each program element. Meter Reading Technology Options: Touch Read Mobile Radio Fixed Radio The automatic meter reading (AMR) fixed radio network meters were identified in the technology evaluation as the most preferable option for implementation by the City (see Section 2). However, this should be considered a preliminary recommendation, for the following reasons. First, the cost evaluation is based on estimates of costs related to each technology. Firm costs are required, and are only available through solicitation of bids. Therefore, it s recommended that the meter reading technologies be re-examined once this additional information is obtained. The cost model can be re-run using actual costs from the bids received. Recommendations for the other program elements are predicated, in part, on implementation of the options preliminarily recommended above. Section V Page 63 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Deployment Time Period Options: Short (Contractor Installed) Long (City Installed) A short time period is recommended for deployment of new meters and meter reading technology. With contractor installation, City-wide meter replacement could occur within two years. The deployment period would likely increase to approximately ten years if the City were to deploy new equipment with existing City staff. The shorter time frame allows for quicker realization of a more accurate and fair allocation of costs among customers due to replacement of aging, inaccurate meters. Also, the short deployment takes advantage of the selected AMR technology without having a blended use of reading methods over a long deployment period, which can increase the demands on oversight of the meter system. Deployment Strategy Options: Geographical Surgical Opportunistic The recommended meter deployment approach is a combination of opportunistic and geographical strategies. Early opportunistic deployment will allow the City to first replace meters with known accuracy problems (aged meters). This provides the City with the greatest benefit to its revenue stream and will improve meter reading efficiency (due to reduced customer service efforts). Once the problematic meters are replaced, geographical deployment (i.e., by area and meter route) should be used to replace the remainder of the system's meters. This represents the most efficient manner when working with Aquila in which to complete the new meter and meter reading technology deployment. Meter Maintenance and Management Program Meter Testing -Before Meter Replacement Program Options: City-Managed Contractor-Managed The City's meter maintenance and management program should begin with the statistical sample of meters 10 years and older to be tested. This testing would provide the hard data on actual meter inaccuracies in order to better determine the revenue recovery. These results would help better justify the estimated cost savings due to implementing a meter replacement program. Due to staffing limitations this program should be contracted out. Section V Page 64 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation New Meter Testing Protocol -During Meter Replacement Program Options: City-Managed Contractor-Managed It is recommended that the City establish a new meter testing protocol. A statistical sample testing of new meter shipments to verify accuracy and to maintain confidence in manufacturer test results is an efficient cost alternative to testing every new meter. For the City of Dubuque approximately one-half to one percent of all new meters randomly should be tested, based on 22,000 new meters, 110-220 meter would require testing over the two year installation. Future Meter Testing Protocol -After Meter Replacement Program Options: City-Managed Contractor-Managed Perhaps the single most important element of a water service meter plan is the long- term management of the metering system to ensure its continued reliability and efficiency. It is recommended that the City develop such a program including routine meter testing, to track trends in declining meter accuracy and provide the basis for routine meter maintenance and/or replacement schedules. It is also recommended that the City's meter information be linked to other City databases and functions (e.g., Geographical Information Systems) as part of an enhanced asset management approach. But for a utility the size of Dubuque, in-house staff can manage this ongoing program efficiently. Even a modest amount of attention paid to a metering program on a regular basis can provide significant information for use in its management. B. Meter Plan Implementation The following are key steps that will aid in implementation of the recommendations outlined above. Site Visits This involves visiting other utilities to observe first-hand the water service meter replacement programs being implemented elsewhere. Other regional utilities have also recently employed new meter reading technologies, as described in Section 2-E. It is recommended that the City consider visiting some of these utilities to expand their knowledge of existing systems prior to moving forward. Develop Meter Maintenance and Management Program A meter testing program can and should be developed before aCity-wide meter replacement program. The information that can be obtained regarding its existing Section V Page 65 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation metering system will enable the City to better justify revenue recovery, construct bid specifications, develop deployment strategies, and plan for future replacement cycles. Develop Bid Specifications The City should consider developing bid specifications for City-wide meter replacement, in parallel with developing the meter maintenance and management program. The purpose of this effort is to learn precisely what options vendors have available to the City and their associated costs. There are some key considerations when developing bid specifications. For the City, it is recommended that the bid remain open to a variety of meter reading technology options. While the AMR alternatives of mobile and fixed radio network have been identified as the preferred approaches, it is to the City's advantage to leave the bid open so that vendors will competitively bid AMR technologies against non-AMR technologies. This also provides for the potential of a hybrid system (e.g., with a portion of the City served by fixed network, with the remainder served by mobile radio). This is likely not the most desired solution for the City, as it results in a blend of technologies at a time when the City is interested in system-wide standardization. However, it warrants consideration if, for example, implementation of a fixed network is cost-prohibitive City- wide but advantageous for a select portion of the City. Along with remaining open to technology, the bid specifications should also be structured to accept open-architecture proposals, allowing for the meter manufacturer to be different than the meter reading technology vendor. Sometimes this can result in a cost-effective option. The Bid might be structured as turnkey proposal, in order to put all the responsibility on the prime contractor. If separated into components, such as AMR equipment, meters and deployment services, management responsibilities become much more difficult. The City will also need to examine these project management requirements. Even with a turnkey project, there are numerous project management and support tasks that must be performed by the City or an agent retained to represent the City. These decisions will affect the overall cost of the project. Re-Evaluate Technology Options Once vendor bids are received for City-wide water service meter replacement, the information should be evaluated using the tools and approaches outlined in this Plan document. Specifically, the cost model presented in Section 4 can be updated with specific cost information provided by bidders to evaluate long-term cost differentials between options on a present value basis. From here, the City will be much better positioned to make a sound decision upon which meter reading technology is most suitable for implementation. An overriding feature of the meter plan is that it, and the City, must remain flexible and open to change during implementation. The plan may need to be revisited as the program evolves and meters and meter reading technology advances. In addition, implementation of this plan will likely result in significant cultural shifts within the various City departments that are influenced by metering (i.e., meter reading, maintenance, Section V Page 66 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation customer service, and billing), particularly if a new meter reading technology is employed. Such changes will impact many City functions and processes. While these impacts have the potential to impart significant benefits, the City must be prepared to anticipate the necessary growing pains to achieve them. Section V Page 67 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation VI.Appendices Appendices Page 68 ~- City of Dubuque Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation A. Ascent Group White Paper FINAL DRAFT Appendices Page 69 ~_ ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Harty Yi~f I~+le#~r R~~t;~~~~ P~rl~orm~rtce C~m~~lre~' ti+V'irot fors f# 7gke '~~ A "$ert Parforrneir'7 To better understand ti7e scare of utility meter reading, [h~ Ascent Group corsductcd a berschmarking pro}ecc to evaluate Meter Rcadir~ performance a~ad p+'artites. Thy mean abjertive of the scud~r was tcs evaluate the tactics crud strategies used Today to matt custcsmer rnecers and cc~ idcrstit~r best practical os c~partunit+~ f+ar impr°t~ve~merst. 'S~ec+~da~ry ob~ectlves inciur}ed u~d~sca~ding_ u Tha rarsge o~f performance by utility and iay industry se$merat: c Wow utilities. are usi'~tg techrrologp ~ redu~ee eosts and irnpr~+e parfonmarace: ~~ Ffow utilities measure indviduaiF tcan°r. and center-1e~+e1 ~r'tteance and er~cc~~era~e high prt~duCtir+iCy and pcr#or~ttance; c= Tt~e roue of meter rckadng training grad its i~°npact on p€rfc~rrrssnte. c C~tfse~ efFectiwe pr~es.s imprc~verrrst ar cast-reds~cti~n techna~,es; Participants were asked tc~ share any sysce~m or process imprx5w~emenis leading to a gain in per'formane~e. V'Ve also asked utilities to include cc-nsideratians, sssecessas, and parrs rxuc-uiirsg fa~rvrard_ Ft~rty-severs ~+tilities participated I~ the research, Stay par~ticiparrcs range in sine from 3,70 rxv~cters tb bfi read to as many as f.5 rs~iipctn. Three-tourti,s a! parcicipant3. read less tiBssars the participant average ~` 7~2,04~ rne+t.ar'~ per rrsctxCh. The majority of study partici~a,nts were from the United States. hc~wesrer wg dici hava tt~+s~ utiiities i'rQm Carsada. Nearly sixty per~cectt csf participants' meter readers arcs bargaindng-unit represented. _.......___-, I __. ___..._. ___ _ _...__~. ~+d~starlr t~s Represented ~ Particl arts l t'~rg~tt-~t#orlel use ..... w..~r,wa~ Fra [rStWi ~2t?Q~ The ascent Grtw~-, lrxr. Brtv49n7~° fMran~c~ ii _ _-_ - --- -- - __ J Appendices Page 70 ~- ` -~-.~ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Average years of meter reading t~xperrence ranged from 1 to 20 years, with an average far tha group cif 7.5 rears. Yealrs Read Expet-iente 6kr9l,a&8 3 kr ti yoara i~a"ya~rs . ~' S~ ;14R4io' 15'!5 2L~K 2596 pia x f~si#IClpanta Repart:tng Ilverdpe Yews of Service IJaturxl Gas Ut~ities reported ch,e hig#resit percentage of AF1R rreeters in tear panel, €ollow~f by Elec#ric Utilities. Nose of our Wat~or~VYast,ewat~r utilities reported an7 meter reading autaanation_ Fifteen u#lxies reported ANIR ir~stalfaticans, ranging from I percent of total meters to be read to 45 percent As a gr;~. pane! participants reported an 8.3 percent At+lf~ 'rnstallatian (t,otal AMR meters divided by coral masers}. ~_ F~'+t'~~~~1~37t1~5 With AM1~ N1et~rS ~~ IF { `~'~} `k Ma Amt tl% 1 ~9E, 24ib 3€t% +1l7~ ? ~6 9~ Ps~lpsnts. Arreoeig our participant group, AMR. maturity ors instalkedy ranges from ~ to 17 rears- As a gro~sp, t~faturzl Gas .and ~ombirtation utilities have the rnc3st maurre AMR systems. averaging atrtruc 7 years, The E~ctryc Utilities average an Afi1ft inseallatic+n of 4 y~aars. X2004 ~hc Ascem Grcwp, Pr~~ Appendices Page 71 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation NIgA ~~ ILow Eera~s ~ Sk~T w a :~ atl m l~etar Reading Benchmark Performance 0 *' Bats i Parlormats F K I J L B St1.84 ~ 34,42 ~' S4.tKt Cast per llletar i'teatl ~.my Gaat We applrtsd die Ascent Group's proprietary benchmark performance frarrsework to identdy hi$h perforrt~ng Meter Reading arganizacians. Carnpany pertomranee eras evaluated an three levels-=-P'roduc-vvity, Cost, and Service. Companies delivering high produtt9viry, Sow case, acrd high service were identified as "bzst perfarmcrs" in this aiudy. Once we identiF€d the "best performers" far each industry-srgmcne ~etectpic, nacurai gas, comhirratia~i ut~ity, and yvatar~+N+astevvvatcrl--above average Companies that dc[iXCr kaw cost meter ruing, high pr~uctiviry, and high service (mow errors. icrw skixrs}. we caleutated a "best pcrfartncr" average tar Chest: high periQrming companies. try industry segment. We also cak;uiated an industry-segrr~rrt average fear each at the benchmark metracs. tv demonstrate Ctrs perk+rmance of the "rest" of the panel, those carnpanies who were not "best perFamtiers", fC,r Ctrr[lpari30n. We daen inocrviewed companies and analyzed meter reading practices tv identafy the charaetcristics eantribudng to "besr practice" performance. ~2t~ Tha Ascent Group„ Jru. Appendices Page 72 ~~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and Svstem Evaluation 5ttrdy ~irtdittgs Brst f'erfrrrn~rrg Comp~sies l.~t ~4utomoted Metsr Reading ~,AlVlpj Strvtetr+c~'Y to l~,ddness Access~Problem Meters. The majority of AMR implementaticsns r~epreserat~d by utilities ht this su~vey indicated an AMR i~nfilemenxatecrn rats of! less theta ~Q percent, In terms of toxal meters, our group reported an AMR irr,ple~r,entation of B3 pprcerac. Clearly, the rrtajoricy of AfrER implcrnentaxions have been xo address high-coat-read meters, C3nky 3 utilities r`eptxrced AMR. implementatip«,,s of mare than 5tl' percent of coral meters_ While a few wart in ttte ~,*oeess of irr~plerrienur~ a comparry-vriafe AhRR program, most indicated taking a strategic approach at ctrst r~duttion chra~gh AMR_ 2. hest F'e~rJor~xsing t~rnparr,~s Rerouxe Ctxrtrflutxu~+. ~`he "best pe-r~Formers" id~+xi~ied An this study (above average parfrrmanee -- low tQSt, high ducxivity, huh se~nvicej reported continuxms ar frequent rerouting and route opximizata~n tcs maximize prpdu,Ctivity end reduce tt~sts. Cca~atipanies with ANiR irrrnencaxio~s also sxressed the impoa^tance of routs eonsalidation and optirnizatio+t throughtaut the transitia~ to autom~at+an_ 8e~sc Ptrfmrmn~ Cporn~s fm~lament Clear arnd ~anc~e Mecrsa~res ~l~eter Reader Per(armar+te -The "'best perfarmtrrs" Identitled in this study wer+s deliberate in ref r r»easuretr~nt of ernploy+ae, group. and deparCmental perfc~rmanc~---cast, sen+ice, and praduetivity. Best perfvrrners reported providing ernplay~s vri~ a clear idea of pob expettace~ans ar-d perda~rmar:ce. Ne~riy half +~f air partir~ants rid net hawe a rneasurernent program in plate for tndivlduat rs~eter reader perforrrrance, ~. nest ?er farr-airrg Caratpanies Fiacourage Nrgh +~ through /netntlvrs nrtd Rewards - The "bftsx perfarrners"identified in this study encvu~raged excelEenGe thra~tgh ~cendve prtsgrarrs arndTor info*mal or farvttial reward programs, Programs varied from bonus pay, s frecia! necec+gnitio~n. ,lift certificaxe~. "bks" redeemable z,t the torrapany stare, steak dinners, and ether non-cash awards. ~, l+l~v Meer Readers Reach Storufard on Avercgae !n &D DQ}~s. Uxgities reported that new rrtctcr readers reach standard levels of pe+~fomnar~ce in about Bt? days. Qur "best perfvrrnirag" utilities repcmeti teething standard at aboux bt1 days. i"'9exer reading is an ~txy-level jab for +~ny u"ulitaes-a vra~ into the cc+mpan7. +Costs rise and ~ervicaa tin suffer with higher xurno+rer and lengthier time to stanr~ard_ 6 Best per(crmirrg C4r-aes Tended acs ~e ffiighe~r thcsn Avert~ge Turrrvver. The coanies identified as best perforancrs in this- study repcrt~cl an average annual xurnpver ranging frsrrn ! [ tc3 5~i percent while the rest of the panel averaged from 7 to ! 5 percent. 7. E)v~ Gassrotrm tend Om~e-jub Fra7nirrg Recces Time to St~srac#ord. "Best perf+~rrnir,g"' caaTrpanies in this study reporx,cd an average of f to ~ days of classrc>arn tra'rr~ing and #? to [ 3 days of t3jT. Best per/armers° rtieter r+taders reach standard 2tk days sooner Chain average. These same coyrnparoics resorted xhe fsvvest e.*rors and skipped rnet~rs, die higt+est pr'aductiviey, in combination with the lowest unx cost, Cdr analysis shows a t~2~34 Trie Ascent ~, lac. Appendices Page 73 ~_ `' City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation direct correlation tretween Inc*eased training, especiaCy QjT, and reduced errors, up to a point Carnpanies reporting shorter ttean average trar~ng programs ttAded t+~ have higfier error races, Skip ratl3, and increa5~ed urt3t c03t 8. Most UGikies art Nat 7esagg New Meter i~aders as Part of the fVew faire Tr(~idniRg f"racess. C)nly 40 percent of utilities report ties use of texting during the new hl rt training process. Testing is an efFecnvc technique to assess training carnpreherrxian ar~d ca determine readiness, Testing also relntarces training tontent through apfai~ation_ Tung can bum intarporatcd through manual tests or computer-based testar~. '~. Correpute+*-based' franir-g Plays ~,n ~~iv~e Ro#e In stew h9etee ite~od'~tr Trt~irar+g. More than ar<e- ttaird of respondents reported cfie use of computer-based training in the new hire meter reading training process. More Haan 8t?9b of respandcracs chat aEfer refresher training ~carparate campuccr•based trainirt~. Co~pu~er-based trairang offers aself-paced train'urg program to help meter readers learn at their awn pace, thereby facilitating better comprehension a,nd retell. 1 d_ few utiiitrei Offer Refresher Trc~in&~. 4n?y 15 percent of partidparacx reported delivering refresher cralning to mettar readers. Refresher trekaing is an effecctave way tea keep employees up-to-date on tQChn~a9 and customer seru~ce xkills ax well ax address seasa+-a) chaliengcs, dlffKUlt customers, bad dogs, aa~d other work challenges. # #, Pepper Spray rs t#at Mast Per~wlor Doi Cauatra" Tedrnigo-ae. Pepper spay was the most used dog control technq~ee. Nearly 35 percent of utilities arc using pepp'ar spray. ©dher dog eontroi techniques Ineludt focused training. dog sticks, umbrellas,. grad dog biscuits. Tine efFetti>re use of dog carttrol techniques can help reduce the Percentage of re-reads and laver operating casts. R€3camrn~ndations I . (7ptimize Rautea Co+atrnuaay, E3pecralfir Throughout the Transuion cb AMR. As long ai there are routes to be read, whether manually or not, there will #ke room #or optimization lhilitias can gain i 0 co 20 percent e(frtmnncy an a company-wide rerouting. Rerouting is aritiral kt areas of high growth. e#ter an auiuisition or merger. and durir~ the transition cos AMR. Many AMR c~echnologiex rega~irc route r+tading, .either wlth a walk-by err drive- by technok~gy_ In many instances. ac#,iewing the gains of A1°1 R on a mixed route requires rerouting. Sal[warc is available to hey with the route aptimlzation, laowcver lt's n®t esser~tia1. ~ UtiGzq AMR for Nigh.Rear~~rsst, iJnso{o Meters, arnd High Turnorer Prerrsises. Strategic deployment of AMR techtaosagy is an eP#ecclve way to reduce cost, improve safety, and incrt:ase cuscomcr saNs#accian. Bcsc performing companies aTc u~l~zing i0.MR ca cackle ~e problem-meters and high-read-cost meters first Companies have also automated meter reading for large businesses and commcreiai customers, in preparation of deregulation_'JYhde a company-wade irnplementatsn may not be feasible, a strategic defsioyrnt:nc to address proalem meters can be very effectr+re. ~Ztx}4 The Ascen;. Group, tint. Appendices Page 74 ~- ` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation 3. Nieaxure a,nd Crrtwnalneccte ~e Pet~arrra R~SrlCriy. Empla}~ets wanx us pertarrn xa expectation - maid ware ~aey clearly understand what is expected, the rneasalrts xFrac vv~l bs used. haw they are co~ected and calculated, and how they irr~act dtieir psrftrman~ce, Perf4rrnante measures will charcege iea the transfixion ca AC'9Ft-ro~eta expectatia~ns afiangt, smpla~rees may be performing other duties in aatdditian xc rraaiing mixers, emphasis wiEl lae sh~fxing to other priorities--males sure y~r e~cpeetatians and maeasures change aa:corditl~r. 4. Use Rewords anti Incerru+~ To pnenetrgQe ~Fligh Performa~nca Ir~csnxives and rewards da increase performance and morale. Rake sort yaa arc encouraging the right brrh~avior arad encova~ging hagh perforrrtarece in xhe right areas. Ir~cenxives and rewards can be came stale wkh time be sure to rotate emphasis an various mEasurtt co keep interest In the program. Also make sure tht rewards are fair and worth the e}ctra effort ~ ask ksyees for suggestioars on types of rewardsH Involvement is key xo aray successfui process- 5_ 7raliA otFd ~q~ip Neater Readers Lo E(~'ectivefy arrri Sa(ey Reaxf Meters. Invesa; fire ys~ur fr~x- line®--prxrvpde rta~n with the xools, egtppmer~. and trainkrg ~ get the job darst righx xiae first aamc. i`"lake acre diet' ere equipped and trained to handler all sixuatavns. Help therm understand the ~stcmer perspecxive and how their ~ fire into the aver;-II picture of custarraer sevice and satisfattion. ~ Irnorprrratt daasroarn and AJi' into y~rr trnir,in~ parograrn to rein force tc~chnfq,ues. Take advoa~ge cr~'testing and computayr•br~seal wnstn~tirar'+ ta) increase xearning carrr~a~tt~trtsiort. Rrfnesh training Aerirnlicu~Y to ' ~~ -~ ~P perxe and upstadote oast cusxarner service qnd ttaf'anic4l sa~As. 7'roirpirag is recognztd as a key facer ~arr suece~ in ruing error males, detecting tarrrpen~g ens! fort meters, iunprorirrg safety. grad irrFprnvng custarrn"r service. Chat:'aa~te~fs~iCS of ~ ~B+est P~f'f~D1"mer" I_ t9se AMR Sirotegita>Pj~ - to ar3dress Iryacca~sseble rrueurs, unsafe meter locations, high turnover premises, arxi ocher hagh-read casx rr~eters. ~. ~ntinaeONy C?ptimize liautes - to maxiatsl~te productivity and rtahace costa. 3. fmpdemerzt [leer anti Gtrracise Measures of Meter Deader Perfvrrrnarrce -gave errtployee~s a dear idea of jab expectacian5 and pcrformance- 4. €rncovroge High Perfovmarace thmvgh Incentives err,? Rewara~afs - encourage the right behar+ior thraa'ugh incentive programs andlor informal or formal reward programs. 5. Train and Equip A9ctcr Reorders -provide employees wits, the tads, safecy~ equipment, dotfrhrg, and training to do the jol~ right the first time. ~2i?~I 'the Ascrnt Gnaup, trsc. Appendices Page 75 ~~ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Role of Miter Readiing iin Today's U~itlity I'~'lcser reading is stld aria of the mnre Eabor~~sensive ut~rty ~Ctivi[ies. While she apse of automated meter reading technologies (AMR) is increasing, rnau vtiEaties are reading the majority of their rneters man~dy_ C}ur panel reported an overall AMR impiemtntation rate n! 8.3 percent - only $.3 perc~rt of our panel's meters have been automated, Tt~e remaining 91,7 meters are read manually, usually nn a rroonxhly basis. With alE she changes in the ~.tiliry ir~c#uscry and the econanry+, mast utitides h2ve been forced to reciutp operating roses. ,4t she same time, companies are being asiker3 by regulators, custamer-s, members, and sharchsalders to increase customer service crud satisfaction. Essentially ~ "da mare +vith less"-a daunting cf-al~rrge for any organization, The Meter Reading organization. o; effectively the cash regvster of the utility, Utilities mist measure and bi0 energy ar water use rnanthty (in most cases)_ Meter reading is the usage coltecoan process that makes bagir-$ poss~le, f~rrars in meter reading result in billing e*rurs or unbided accounts that ~timately resdlt in lowering customer satistactican. I n addit;zatj, skip~d meter read~gs result in estimated bids or no•bills, which also usually impact customer satisfaction negatively. For+tmny eampanies, the meter reader is an entry-EpveE job, a ~anne~d stepping-stone into she company, And as xuch, meter reading departmsnts can incur high surrrt,Ytr, thereby increasing the costs incurred so hire and train eifecdve and efficient Hoaxer readers, and uhimately, increasing ~e cast to read a meter, flat a~ly is it critical to effecxively and e#f"~iently read meters every month, the meter reader aisa plays an important ecrrnmUnixy relations colts -- the "gatekeefier" who looks fur leaks, p~ro6lems, hazards, safety issues, and effer;tively becomes a neighbar#~oad watch. For rraany customers, the meter reader is the only carnpany empb~ree ever seen.. Clearly this mover reading organization ks evolving wfch the irrtroductian of autvmatian. 7i7e diversity of metering and AMR equripJner~, complexity of accounts ar~d biding, the challenges of servite territory, and neecks +~ differ~t customer classes tfictate different salucions fnr different tames, Regardless of the AMR implementation rater, tho transition from manual to automation is challenging from a terhrsolagy and people perspective. Routes must be cotrsoEidated and optimizt:d, employee roles and responstbilFtaes e:hangc with changing priesricies, perforanance measurement metrics must. shift to auamrrwdate the mix of aurtamaticsn and manual effort, processes and systerrrs change.. , it's a challeng~rrg time for any organization, Eves after autamatiur., metering devices must be visited periodically tc~ ensure the device is vrurking pnopcrly and w protect asses, ~i7Cl04 Tire ~+sGen2 Group. InG Appendices Page 76 ~-` City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation in this transitaor~ to autcrnation aril the graesi i~o'.' reduced tap@raxing expenses, m©st ut~ives are focusing do shrrr apprraacltts to meter reading improvetnerst: ~ REdutJng casts of mart~ual reads thrau~ft contract neg+stiaxions. rerouting, more sophisticated hand-hold e~quipmetx and meters, productivity imprvvernent. and lx>+veritt8 ov,~rhtad; marry have mated out these vpcioru: Mme have reduced casts ua a poarte that. makes ix difficult to justify Af^1R for residerrtiai accc>d,~ts. c. Contract meter reading to reduce overhead Cackle seasana# pcaks~ and as a strategy w uansitbmn xo automated meter r+sading. c Aur~amated meter readfng some loge-scale implementation as well as aererai strategies to plnpcrirrt "high read Lost" meters. unsafe rsteter Ivcatia^rs, and high- turrcoxer promotes- Same companies ha+re automated "key actounxs" and commereaal accounts to accommodate real-t3rrlie prking andror propara for the Competitive market Tfre promise of autorna>~on For our study par#cipants. AMR knplementaxion remains dye eop plan far the Fr~uro, whrthor ii s a partial car complete im~+fementatian, err just Investigating the technology's p~pterrtial, Top 5 Pl~n~ #vr the future P~ra~ a~rR Gcmp~any-wide AAI.f~ prior ~~ ~~ trn~estrgatefAnalyae 1-rA~t ~.I ~~~~~ R.~rts UpRlmizatiDn ~, 9~ toga 1994 "--_.... ~~ ..._ `16 Rs~rtfrg Prar?a br the f~nure (~3Z'(?t}4 Tfae Asrerrt Group. tnc. Appendices Page 77 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Tak~~Awag~s WhOt can yc~u rake away from all ~ tttas! t~tilitits art still reading meters manually and are likely to be reeding thtm manually for some time. kr the mean time, coanpanie€ are challenged to read meters efficiently and tffectively. As a cost reduttion and service irnprorement tiati+re; many ucllaes are strategically d~loying AMR. espe~gy fir high-read~cost situations. This cr+end will kice~,+ continue until fife cost of AMR bt~rnes mart attractive icx the rtsidenoal meter. Best perfc~rmir~ Companies are strategicagy in~lertaerrting AMR. continually optimaing routes, $nci effectively train~g and encourag~g high perlarmar~c,e. Employees are tra~etf, encaairagr, and equ~ped with the tools, safety equipment„ and clothing to do the job right the asst time. Err~rlayee performance In best ptrform~ng companies is measured and repr:rted Clearly and toncistly--~rr~pleryees have a clear idea of job E:scpect~itiolys and performance. In order tc improve, meter reading perf~martce rnusc be measured and tracked. This &~dudts individual eneasurei cif pcrfcrrmarae+e as well as grawp or dppartmenta! measures. Emptayee€ must understand she importance at their role in custorncr saci34actlon-~chrough accurate rcadrngs and Imps, good company re~tions, and efficiently read routes. This importance s4~auld be camm~icated clearly and reinfarted through perk~rmante metrics and revvarCs and lncencivts. Make sur+~ your meter reading praeesses, bath ~e pule snd technology-driven processes are effective and efticlenc Review work racks. roues standards, and systems periodically to idantify opportunities far irT~rov~e-nent. 6es~chmarking performance rf an eReetive technique to understand your meter reada~ deparvsaer~t's level of performance and oppatrttmiities. Be sure u~ Compare cost and service for a balanced view of performance (like the metrics in tfiis scudyy: Yc~u Carr ~i~rCdaase tttia r'estrlls frarra this berrchrnarking stud~r. R+teter Reading Pro~tes and Best Practices, at our wedgy si!'e wwnM_aece,ntaracttr.c~ra7. Resrilts erg ~~~al't~~ht~ in r~ ~ri~ecd arrct bacrr7d /vrrraat, an CD-Ram, and ant€ne (dawralc~adabJe pdfs}. Contact Chrrstrye Koztc~sky st the Rscent Groin far na;,rs drtfannatian 4 ir8-4fi9-.~~Sl?, (~Zt7D4 The r;seent Group, drat. Appendices Page 78 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation B. Summary of Cost Model Results Appendices Page 79 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Summary of ResuRs Updated: November 5, 2007 Page 1 of 4 2009 ZiL]_0 11 2012 2413 Operating Budget (Does Not Include Customer Service) Touch Read Aquila 532f,683 5454,412 $469,883 5485,888 $502,445 Touch Read 5345,563 5518,817 $537,448 5556,753 $576,757 Mobile Drive-by 5348,373 5360,836 $373,749 5387,126 $40D,990 Fixed Radio 53D1,999 5311,743 $322,874 5334,406 $346,354 Project Management and Procurment Services Touch Read Aquila 5166,238 5166,238 $0 $0 $0 Touch Read 5166,238 5166,238 $0 $0 $0 Mobile Drive-by 5166,238 5166,238 $0 $D $0 Fixed Radio 5156,238 5166,238 $0 $0 $0 Capital Outlay to be Borrowed. Touch Read Aquila $1,881,838 $2,424,137 $0 $0 $0 Touch Read $1,980,238 $2,460,517 $0 $0 $0 Mobile Drive-by $2,fi66,19d $3,124,600 $D $0 $D Fixed Radio $2,89D,259 $3,290,000 $0 $0 $D Capital Cost out of Pocket Touch Read Aquila SO $0 549,392 551,120 552,905 Touch Read 50 $0 549,392 551,120 552,905 Mobile Drive-by 50 $0 563,512 $65,722 568,005 Fixed Radio SO $D 566,572 $68,886 $71,277 Debt Service Payments Touch Read Aquila 5296,160 5296,160 $296,160 5296,160 $296,16D Touch Read 5305,430 5305,430 $305,430 5305,430 $305,430 Mobile Drive-by 5398,284 5398,284 $398,284 5398,284 $398,284 Fixed Radio 5425,D71 5425,071 $425,071 5425,071 $425,071 Long-Term Budget ~Proj. Management + Debt Service * Out of Pocket Capftal + OperotingJ Touch Read Aquila 5784,081 5916,809 $815,435 5833,168 $851,510 Touch Read 5817,231 5990,485 5892,270 5913,303 $935,D93 Mobile Drive-by 5912,895 5925,358 $835,545 5851,134 $867,279 Fixed Radio 5893,308 5903,052 5814,517 5828,364 $842,702 Results and Inputs NPV j~jPV NPV NPV NPV Debt Service Out of Pocket Capital Total Caoitai Proi. Mana. Operatina Touch Read Aquila $3,754,210 5705,762 54,459,972 5309,982 57,297,939 Touch Read $3,87'1,719 5762,657 54,634,377 5309,982 $8,906,595 Mobile Drive-by $5,048,765 5930,634 55,979,399 5309,982 $5,964,076 Fixed Radio 55,388,325 5981,638 56,369,962 5309,982 $5,150,430 Real Dollar Real Dollar Real Dollar Real Dollar Real Dollar Debt Service Out of Pocket Capital Coital Proj. MancL Operating Touch Read Aquila 55,923,203 $1,228,254 57,151,457 5332,475 512,198,257 Touch Read $6,108,603 $1,324,658 57,433,261 5332,475 515,129,087 Mobile Drive-by $7,965,687 $1,617,545 59,583,232 5332,475 $9,937,883 Fixed Radio $8,501,426 $1,7D5.749 510,207,175 5332,475 $8,580,502 Cost per Read Meter Readings Meter Readers 5119,691 5268,644 $271,332 5274,044 $276,780 Field Service $iD,892 $24,447 524,691 524,938 525.187 Operating CosdRead (Meter Readers + Field Service + Customer Service) Touch Read Aqu/A 52.46 51.55 $1.59 51.63 51.66 Touch Read 52.65 51.77 $1.82 51.86 51.91 Mobile Drive-6y 52.67 51.23 $1.26 S'L29 51.33 Fixed Radio 52.31 51.06 $1.D9 51.12 S1.15 Op.+Cap. CosURead Touch Read Aquii 56.00 53.13 $2.75 52.79 S2.82 Touch Read 56.26 53.38 $3.01 53.05 53.10 Mobile Drive-by 56.99 53.16 $2.82 52.85 52.87 Fixed Radio 56.84 53.08 $2.75 52.77 52.79 Appendices Page 80 ~_ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Summary of Resuks Updated: November 5, 2007 Page 2 of 4 2_iL 2015 2016 2017_ 2.D18 Operating Budget (Does Not I nclude Customer Service) Touch Read Aquila 5519,572 5537,290 5555,62D $574,583 $594,202 Touch Read 5597,487 5618,967 5641,226 $664,292 $688,196 Mobl/e Drive•by 5415,352 5430,234 5445,654 $461,631 $478,166 Fixed Radio 5358,733 5371,557 5384,845 $398,612 $412,876 Project Management and Procurment Services Touch Read Aquila $0 30 50 $D $0 Touch Read SO $0 $0 $0 $0 Mobile Drive-by 30 50 SD $0 $0 Fixed Radio $D 50 54 $D $0 Capital Outlay to be Borrowed Touch Read Aquila $0 50 54 $0 $0 Touch Read 50 50 $4 30 $D Mobile Drive-by $0 50 $0 $0 $0 fixed Radio $0 $0 $0 30 30 Capital Cost out of Pocket Touch Read Aquila 556,317 557,797 $58,843 561,108 $63,220 Touch Read 565,821 563,828 $58,843 561,108 563,220 Mobile Drive-by 585,462 $73,082 $75,604 578,507 581,203 Fixed Radice 592,706 $76,595 579,235 582,277 385,10D Debt Service Payments Touch Read Aquila 5296,160 5296,160 5296,160 5296,160 5296,160 Touch Read 5305,430 5305,430 5305,430 5305,430 $3D5,430 Mobile Drive-by 5398,.284 5398,284 5398,284 $398,284 5398,284 Fixed Radia 5425,071 5425,071 5425,071 $425,071 $425,071 Long-Term Budget tProj. Management + Debt Service + Out of Pocket Captal + Operating) Touch Read Aquila 5872,049 5891,248 5910,624 5931,852 $953,581 Touch Read S968.737 5988,225 $1,D05,499 S1,D3D,831 $1,056;846 MabileDrive-by 5899,099 3901,6D1 5919,542 $938,423 5957,674 Fixed Radio 5876,51D 5873,224 5889,151 39D5,960 $923,047 Results and Inouts j+jPV Yrs to Imol. Reads/Dav Total Toach Read Aquila 512,067,893.33 2 350 Touch Read $13,850,953.18 2 350 Mobile Drive-by $12,253,456.79 2 7,500 Fixed Radio $11.830,374.39 2 Real Dollar Total Touch Read Aquila 319,fi82,188 Touch Read 322,894,824 Mobile Drove-by 319,853,570 Fixed Radio 319,120,153 Cost per Read Meter Readings Meter Readers 279,552 282,348 285,t68 288,D24 290,904 Field Service _25,439 25,694 25,95D 26,210 26,472 Operating CostlRead (Meter Readers + Field Service + Customer Service] Touch Read Aquii 5170 31.74 31.79 51.83 51.87 Touch Read 51.96 32.01 32.06 32.11 52.17 Mabife Drive-6y 51.36 31.40 51.43 $1.47 51.51 Fixed Radio St.18 31.21 $1.24 31.27 51.30 Op.+Cap. Cosf/Read Touch Read AquH 52.86 $2.89 32.93 52.97 53.00 Touch Read 53.18 33.21 53.23 53.28 53.33 Mobile Drive-6y 52.95 52.93 52.96 $2.99 53.02 Fixed Radio 52.87 52.83 $2.86 52.88 52.91 Appendices Page 81 ~- City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Summary of Results Updated: November 5, 2007 Page 3 of 4 2019 ~Q ~ ~ 2D23 Operating Budget (Does Not include Custo mer Serviee) Touch Read Aquila $614,498 $635,496 $657,221 5679,698 $702,953 Touch Read $796,053 $824,714 $854,416 $885,197 $917,097 Mobile Drrve•by $495,341 $513,116 $531,535 5550,522 $570,400 Fixed Radio $427,655 $442,968 $458,835 $475,275 $492,310 Project Management and Procurment Services Touch Read Aqu11a $0 $0 $0 $(1 $0 Touch Read $0 $0 $0 50 $0 Mobile Ddve•by $0 $0 $0 50 $0 Fixed Radio $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Capital Outlay to be Borrowed Touch Read Aquila $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Touch Read $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Mobile Drive•by $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 Fixed Radio $0 $0 $0 50 $p Capital Cost out of Pocket Touch Read Aquila $66,936 $68,947 $70,23D $72,897 $75,391 Touch Read $120,519 $75,770 $70,230 $72,897 575,391 Mobile Drive-by $100,756 $87,185 $90,161 $93,575 596,756 Fixed Radio $109,136 $41,364 $94,480 $98,055 $101,384 Debt Service Payments Touch ReadAquita $296,160 $296,160 $296,160 $296,160 $296,160 Touch Read $305,430 $305,430 $305A30 53D5,430 $305,430 Mobile Drive-by $398,284 $398,284 $398,284 5398,284 $398,284 Fixed Radio $425,071 $425,071 $425,071 5425,071 $425,071 Long-Term Budget (Prof. Management + Debt Service + Out of Pocket Capital + Operating) Touch ReadAquifa $977,595 $1,000,604 $1,023,611 $1,048,755 $1,074,5D5 Touch Read $1,222,002 $1,205,914 $1,230,077 $1,263,524 $1,297,919 Mobile Drive-by $994,381 $998,586 $1,019,981 $1,042,481 $1,065,440 Fixed Radio 5961,862 $959,404 $978,386 S998,401 $1,D18,766 Results and Inputs VisitslDav $1Pad. MIU SFartup-Infra. Read Eq. life Touch Read Aquila 35 $15.00 5 Touch Read 35 $15.00 5 MobifeDrive-by 325 575.00 $42,000 10 Fixed Radio $88.00 $205,000 20 Cost per Read Meter Readings Meter Readers 293,808 296,748 299,712 302,712 305,736 Field Service 26,737 27,004 27,274 27,547 27,822 Operatlng CosURead (Meter Readers + Field Service + Customer Service) Touch Read Aqui $1.92 51.96 $2.01 $2.06 $2.11 Touch Read $2.48 52.55 $2.61 $2.68 $2.75 Mobile Drive-by $1.55 $1.58 $1.63 $1.67 $1.71 Fixed Radio $1.33 $1.37 $1.40 $1.44 $1.48 Op.+Cap. CosURead Touch Read Aqui $3.05 53.09 $3.13 $3.18 53.22 Touch Read $3.81 $3.72 $3.78 $3.83 $3.89 Mobile Drive-by $3.10 53.08 $3.12 $3.16 $3.19 fixed Radio $3.00 52.96 $2.99 $3.02 $3.05 Appendices Page 82 ~~ City of Dubuque FINAL DRAFT Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation Summary of Results Updated: November 5, 2D07 Page 4 of 4 2024 2025 2026 2027 2428 Total Operating Budget (Does Not Include Customer Service) Touch Read Aquila $727,014 $751,910 $777,668 $8x4,321 $831,899 $12,198,257 Touch Read $9r5D,157 $984,419 51,019,928 $1,056,729 $1,094,871 $15,129,D87 Mobite Drive-by $590,896 $612,134 $634,144 $656,952 5680,589 $9;937,863 Fixed Radio $509,962 $528,252 $547,245 $566,844 5587,196 $6,580,502 Project Management artd Procurment Services Touch Read Aquila $D $0 $0 $0 $0 $332,475 Touch Read $D $0 50 $0 $x $332,475 Mobite Drive-by $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $332,475 Fixed Radio $D $0 50 $0 $0 $332,475 Capital Outlay to be Barrovred Touch Read Aquila $D $0 $0 $D $0 $4,305,975 Touch Read $0 $f1 50 $D $0 $4,440,755 Mobite Drive-by $0 $0 50 $0 $0 $5,790,794 Fixed Radio $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $6,180,259 Capital Cast out of Pocket Touch Read Aquila $79,977 $82,094 583,946 $87,D91 $90,043 $1,228,254 Touch Read $92,722 $89,813 583,946 $87,091 $90,043 $1,324,658 MobiteOrive-by $119,370 $103,797 $107,683 $111,702 5115,461 $1,617,545 Fixed Radio $129,096 5108,757 $112,826 $117,034 512D,969 $1,705,749 Debt Service Payments Touch Read Aquila $296,160 $296,160 $296,160 $296,160 5296,160 $5,923,203 Touch Read $3D5,430 $305,430 $305,430 $3x•'•5,430 5305,430 $6,td8,603 Mobite Drive-by $398,284 5398,284 $398,284 $398,284 $398,284 $7,965;687 Fixed Radio $425,071 5425,071 $425,D71 $425,071 5425,071 $8,501,426 Long-Term Budget (Proj. Management + Debt Service + Out of Pocket Capital + Operating) Touch Read Aquila 51,103,151 $1,130,163 51,15?,774 $1,187,572 $1,218,101 $19,682,186 Touch Read 51,348,309 $1,379,662 51,4x9,304 59,449,250 $1,490,343 522,894,824 Mobile Drive-by $1,108,550 $1,114,216 51,14D,112 $1,166,939 $1,194,335 $19,853,570 Fixed Radio $1,064,129 $1,062,08x $1,x85,103 $1,108,950 $1,133„235 $19,120,153 Cost per Read Meter Readings Meter Readers 308,796 311,880 315,f10D 318,156 321,336 FietdService 28,100 28,381 28,665 28,952 29,242 Operating Cost/Read (Meter Readers + Fleld Service + Customer Service} 7ouchReadAquif $2.16 $2.21 $2.26 $2.32 $2.37 Touch Read $2.82 $2.89 $2.97 $3.04 $3.12 Mobite Drive-by $1.75 $1.80 $1.85 $1.89 $1.94 Fixed Radio $1.51 $1.55 $1.59 $1.63 $1.67 Op.+Cap. Cost/Read Touch Read Aquii $3.27 $3.32 $3.37 $3.42 $3.47 Touch Read $4.00 $4.05 $4.1 D $4.18 $4.25 Mobile Drive•by $3.29 $3.27 $3.32 $3.36 $3.41 Fixed Radio $3.16 $3.12 $3.16 $3.19 $3.23 Appendices Page 83 ~- ` EXHIBIT B THE~CPI'YTQF ~-# L./ V ~ L Mnsterpieee nn fire Mississippi Water Meter Review and Testing November 2008 Prepared by: HDR Engineering, Inc. x THE CITY pf ~,.r DTJ~ E Masterpiece an the Mississippi I ONE COMPANY ~~ Many Solutionss"' Technical Memorandum To: Ken TeKippe, City of Dubuque From: HDR Engineering Project: Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Date: November 13, 2008 Job No: HDR 89119 RE: Technical Memorandum -Water Meter Review and Testing Table of Contents 1.0 Executive Summary .................................................................................................................. 2 2.0 Meter Testing Program ............................................................................................................. 3 2.1 Meter Testing Goals and Objectives ................................................................................ 3 2.2 Description of Water Meter Technologies Tested ........................................................... 4 2.3 Methodology ....................................................................................................................4 3.0 Meter Test Results .................................................................................................................... 6 3.1 Small Meter Test Results ................................................................................................. 6 3.2 Large Meter Test Results ................................................................................................. 7 4.0 Revenue Analysis ...................................................................................................................... 9 5.0 Recommendations ................................................................................................................... 11 6.0 Appendices .............................................................................................................................. 14 6.1 Small Meter Test Results ............................................................................................... 14 6.2 Large Meter Test Results ............................................................................................... 20 HDR Engineering, Inc. ~ Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ ~ Page 1 of 26 1.0 Executive Summary During July through October of 2007, HDR performed a Water Meter System Evaluation for the City of Dubuque. Recommendations for future improvements and upgrades to the water meter system were developed. A recommendation from the study was to perform testing and evaluation of the existing water meters due to the large portion of the City's meter population nearing or past the expected life span of approximately 15 to 20 years. As meters age, they become worn, which over time reduces or slows the overall registration of the meter. This meter inaccuracy affects water consumption measurement which in turn reduces collected revenue. In order to determine the magnitude of potential meter inaccuracies within the City's meter population, HDR was selected in cooperation with M.E. Simpson to conduct a Water Meter Review and Testing program. The program tested a sampling of Dubuque's meters to identify typical meter inaccuracies resulting from their age and application. The following discussion summarizes the results and recommendations of the Review and Testing program. A significant number of small and large meters failed testing: 35.7% of the small meters (5/8-inch to 1-inch) and 40.3% ofthe large meters (1-1/2-inch to 8-inch) failed, indicating that meter replacement is needed. A considerable number of relatively new large compound type meters failed, indicating that a meter testing and maintenance program would be beneficial once new meters are installed. It is not cost effective to repair small meters, although testing a sample of the small meter population is useful to determine meter accuracy, lost revenue, and the need for future meter replacement. Large meters measure a much higher consumption volume with higher associated revenue than a small meter. For example, a single turbine meter may measure 500 to 1,000 times more water than a residential meter. Although the number of large meters in the system is small, a regular preventative maintenance and repair program would provide significant benefits through extend meter life, proper accuracy and associated maximized water revenue. The additional testing would require additional staff or outsourcing to a contractor. This study's revenue analysis, which is based on meter size, consumption information and testing results, estimates that 17,482,500 cubic feet of water or 6.9% of annual consumption is not recorded by the water meters. The volume of water not recorded results in a projected loss of water and sewer revenue of approximately $676,000 for fiscal year 2009. This figure will increase as meter inaccuracies continue to worsen and water rates increase over time. The high number of meters out of specification and the associated annual lost revenue support implementing a meter change-out program. The 2007 Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation recommended installing a fixed radio network meter system as the lowest cost alternative. A fixed radio network allows remote reading of water meters, eliminating the need for labor intensive manual meter reading. From the 2007 Water Meter System Evaluation cost model, the 20 year present value cost of a fixed radio network water meter system will be approximately $6,400,000 and includes the cost of new water meters, radio equipment, computers and other hardware. Based on current lost revenue and the estimated 2007 cost for a new fixed network meter system, the payback period would be approximately nine years. Table 1-1 shows the preliminary payback period for the fixed radio network meter replacement program. The lost revenue figure will be compounded over time as existing meter accuracy decreases and water rates increase. HDR Engineering, InG. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I Page 2 of 26 Table 1-1 Revenue Recovery for Fiscal Year 2009 Rates .Fixed Radio Network Meter System, Years to Pa back at Given Ilnacclurac 20 Year NPV Ca ital Cost 5% 6.9% ` 10% $6,400,000 13 9 7 The fixed radio system requires fewer employees for meter reading and results in lower operating and total costs than the existing system contracting with Aquila to read the meters. The fixed radio system alternative assumes City staff will be responsible for the radio network, billing and will continue to perform routine meter maintenance and replacement as is currently done. The Aquila alternative assumes Aquila will read the meters and City staff will be responsible for meter maintenance and billing. There is not expected to be a significant change in City staff levels from the current system to the fixed radio network system. However, the cost of contracting with Aquila will be saved. Currently, the annual cost for Aquila is about $140,000 and is expected to increase approximately 3% per year. In addition to direct cost savings, there are many non-direct financial benefits of moving to a fixed radio network meter system compared to the existing meter system. Fixed radio network meters improve customer service and staff efficiency by allowing real-time meter reading. Water meter remote registers on the side of buildings will be removed and problems with meter accessibility and the need to enter a home or business for meter reading will be eliminated. The large amount of data that can be easily and remotely collected with a fixed radio network system will allow City staff to efficiently develop water system hydraulic models, track water consumption trends and plan for future water system requirements. Parts for repairs for some of the older existing water meters are becoming more difficult due to the lack of availability. The high number of meters out of specification, annual lost revenue, and other benefits support implementing a meter change-out program. Based on a meter asset life of twenty years and a payback period of nine years, there is a positive payback period and it is recommended that meter replacement be considered. 2.0 Meter Testing Program 2.1 Meter Testing Goals and Objectives The water meter review and testing program was designed to locate inconsistencies in the metering of water and to identify meter accuracy problems resulting from age of meters, and application. The review helps the development of acost-effective replacement schedule for water meters and provides recommendations for the correction of the identified problems. Select information for various meter accounts was copied from the City's database for review and evaluation. These data were used to put together a cross section of meters based on their age, size, and type. Based on patterns of consumption and meter record information, an application evaluation was performed. This evaluation compared the historical meter use to American Water Works HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 3 of 26 Association (AWWA) standard specifications relating to proper meter size and application as well as age and wear. 2.2 Description of Water Meter Technologies Tested The following sections briefly describe three common types of water meters. 2.2.1 Positive Displacement Meters Positive displacement meters are typically used in residential and commercial applications with low flow rates and sizes of less than 2-inches. Displacement meters work by using water to "push" or displace a piston or nutating disk connected to a measuring system. Displacement meters are commonly used in applications with flow rates of less than 50 gallons per minute. High flow rates in displacement meters can create high head losses that make their use impractical for large meters. 2.2.2 Compound Meters Compound meters are used for applications that require measurement of a wide range of flow rates. A compound meter consists of two separate meters and a check valve that controls flow to each meter. The low flow meter is usually a positive displacement meter and the high flow meter is often a turbine meter. As flow rates increase, a check valve opens to divert a portion or all of the water to the high flow meter. The readings from each meter are added to determine the total water consumption. Compound meters can experience inaccuracy during "change-over" when the check valve is partially open and flow is diverted to both meters. It is important to test compound meters over a wide range of flow rates. Compound meters tend to require more maintenance than other meter types. Inaccuracy at high flow rates caused by either a faulty check valve or faulty high flow meter can result in potentially high losses in revenue. 2.2.3 Turbine Meters Turbine meters work by using water to rotate a turbine connected to a measuring device. Turbine meters are designed for high flow applications and low head losses. Turbine meters are not very accurate at low or highly variable flow rates and are commonly available in sizes 2-inches and greater. The number of turbine meters used in most cities is typically small compared to other meter types; however a single turbine meter may measure 500 to 1,000 times more water volume than a residential meter per month, making them an important consideration. 2.3 Methodology Small meters up to 1-inch were tested in the City maintenance shop following AWWA standards. The large meter testing program went beyond the stated AWWA meter testing specifications. There are differences between meter testing conducted in the field versus testing meters in a controlled laboratory environment or established meter testing shop using volumetric tanks. Field conditions should be taken into consideration when testing meters in the field. Also the AWWA M-6 meter testing manual has no set "standards" for field testing, only to try to emulate as close as possible the suggested meter testing flow or to follow each meter manufacturer's suggested flow rates. HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 4 of 26 Therefore, the Project Team found it imperative to adhere to a strict method of field testing while taking into consideration the AWWA meter performance standards. This methodology was designed to allow for a systematic diagnosis of the meter's performance based on several flow rates across that specific meter's size and type beyond the AWWA's three tests (minimum, intermediate, and maximum). Meters were tested across a range of flows in order to determine patterns of mechanical wear at various flow rates. The flow rates used are a combination of AWWA recommended flow rates (per M-6 manual of the AWWA) and meter manufacturer flow rates. All compound meters were tested at six flows rates, concentrating on the change over rate which is the most critical flow rate in a compound water meter. (AWWA states three tests, the change over rate being one of them. *Reference AWWA M6 Manual, 4th edition -Chapter 5) 1-1/2-inch and larger meters were tested by comparative methods using a certified test meter to test the water customer's meter within its normal operating range or by volumetric methods per AWWA M-6 Manual. Our comparative test meters were Sensus (formerly Rockwell) models that record total volume and current velocity for each of the 4 to 6 tests conducted. The test meters had "Electronic Registers" that were automatically reset to zero after each test. These comparative test meter units are themselves "Tested and Certified Accurate" at least once each year. Certificates of Accuracy were available on the service trucks if questions existed about how the meters were to be tested. There was a minimum of a two person field crew working on the meter testing program at all times, both in the field and during the shop testing of the smaller meters. All meters with a test port were tested in place. Meter installations where there were no test ports were documented. Each meter was analyzed as to the meter setting (i.e. installed piping connection configuration and service application) to determine if the meter could be tested in place without removal, and without undue inconvenience to the water customer. The Project Team observed each setting for an inlet valve, an outlet valve to be able to isolate the meter from use during testing, and a test port of correct size as well as position to attain enough flow velocity to test the meter across the range of flow rates for that specific meter. If a by-pass line was available, it was flushed prior to testing to insure no water service interruption for a critical customer such as a hospital. During each test, proper meter application and sizing were confirmed by visual inspection of the general area and observed meter readings to ensure the correct meter was in place and the setting is correct for the application (the meter setting is important because improper configurations can adversely affect meter accuracy). Some of the 1-1/2-inch and 2-inch displacement meters were able to be tested in place by using available test ports of existing backflow preventors. Here it was critical to achieve at least 10% or more of the lower operating range of that particular meter to be able to qualify as a valid meter test (per AWWA M-6 manual). Some of the 1-1/2-inch and 2-inch meters were tested at a sink using a calibrated small meter. Again, the flow tests used were at or over the lower 10% of the operating range of the meter. Shutdowns were limited when possible to minimize inconvenience for water customers. Meters were selected randomly for testing by year of installation and size. A total of 196 meters were selected for testing, ranging in size from 5/8-inch to 8-inches. However, two large meters were not able to be tested, resulting in a total of 194 meters being tested as follows: • 5/8-inch meters: 40 tested • 3/4-inch meters: 20 tested • 1-inch meters: 10 tested • 1-1/2-inch meters: 46 tested HDR Engineering, InC. ~ Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ ~ Page 5 of 26 • 2-inch meters: 27 tested • 3-inch meters: 2 turbine meters and 27 compound meters were tested • 4-inch meters: 3 turbine meters and 13 compound meters were tested. Two 4-inch compound meters were found not to be testable due to site conditions (see individual reports) • 6-inch meters: 5 compound meters were tested • 8-inch meter: 1 (8"x2") fire meter (turbine) was tested The Project Team maintained an interactive role with the City Staff. The field staff met with assigned City Staff daily, and as needed. The Project Team worked with the City and water customers for all test scheduling and two (2) person teams were used to perform the work. Frequent communication was maintained with City Staff so problem meters and/or issues with water customers could be addressed in a timely manner. The Project Team conducted short interviews with staff about the "particulars" of the selected meter locations such as changes in the occupancy of the buildings, age of the meters, meter reading systems, etc. This provided a greater understanding of how meters were functioning, allowing priorities to be assigned to particular segments of the work. City personnel were not required to assist field technicians except where there were issues with gaining entry due to security or other concerns. In some cases, City personnel helped the field crews and their help was genuinely appreciated. 3.0 Meter Test Results 3.1 Small Meter Test Results A total of 70 small meters were selected for testing ranging from 5/8-inch to 1-inch. 10 1-inch meters, 20 3/4-inch meters, and 40 5/8-inch meters were tested. Appendix 6.1 shows details of the test results for the small meters. The test results were subjected to two weighted averages, one was the 15%-70%-15% as set by AWWA and the other weighted average was set at 5%-90%-5%. The percentages refer to the weighting given to the test results at low flow, intermediate flow and high flows. The highest weighting is given to intermediate flows since small meters usually do not operate at low or high flows for extended lengths of time under normal usage. AWWA recommends 15%-70%-15% as a weighted average to help figure usage patterns for residential meters. Additionally, another weighted average was included with the results. This average was set at 5%- 90%-5%for the low, intermediate, and high flow ranges. The 5%-90%-5% has been found to be more representative for some customers. There was little variation between the 15%-70%-15% and 5%-90%-5% weighted averages. 33% of the small meters failed at the 15%-70%-5% weighted average and 36% failed at the 5%-90%-5% weighted average. The overall accuracy of the small meters at the 15%-70%-15% average was 92.27% and 92.38% at 5%-90%-5%. Without detailed monitoring of the actual usage of each meter, it is impossible to know the actual weighted average of the meter. Given the similar results for both weighted averages, the AWWA recommended 15%-70%-15% weighted average will be used for the purposes of this report. HDR Engineefing, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and TesSng I I Page 6 of 26 Figure 3-1 shows the small meter test results. Figure 3-1 Small Meter Test Results 6~D° ~ , a 5~° 6 ~ , v L d ~ ~ 4©° , L ~ +~ 30"~ i~ ilRl f~A ) 2Q% L a ~ 10°~ 0°~ Meter Size 5!8-IN 314-IN 1-IN Total Meters 28,478 594 504 Meters Tested 40 20 1Q Failed Testing 20 3 2 The small meter test results indicate there is loss of revenue occurring. By the AWWA standards, this is considered "Non-Revenue Water". Since water meters are the "cash registers" for the utility, the City of Dubuque is losing money with these meters. The level of lost revenue varies by meter is generally higher for older meters. Almost 50% of the 5/8-inch meters tested failed, representing a large portion of the City's meter population. Most of the small meters tested were installed before 1988, although the exact age could not be determined. Based on City records, a significant number of the small meters were installed prior to 1974. As would be expected given the age of the meters, the failure rate for the residential meters is high. With increasing age, meter failures and inaccuracy will increase further. 3.2 Large Meter Test Results Appendix 6.2 presents detailed summaries of the large meter testing results. Results of the Commercial/Industrial testing indicate there is loss of revenue occurring due to meters not performing to accepted standards. By the AWWWA standards, this is considered "Non-Revenue Water". Since water meters are the "cash registers" for the water system, the City of Dubuque is losing money with these meters as well. Figure 3-2 shows the large meter test results. A significant number of the large meters failed testing. Large meters make up a smaller portion of the meter population than the small meters, but convey much higher flow rates per meter and are potentially sources of significant revenue loss. A 4-inch meter will typically produce revenues of HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 7 of 26 greater than $10,000 per year. Failure of a single large meter is equivalent in lost revenue to many small meter failures. There was a higher than expected rate of failure among some of the newer meters, especially compound meters. Compound meters tend to require higher levels of maintenance than other meter types. Consideration should be given to implementing a regular meter maintenance program for larger meters, especially compound type meters 3-IN and above. Table 3-1 shows the large meter tested accuracy by age. Figure 3-2 I_arae meter I est Kesults soo~o = so~.o ~, ~oo, p i ~ °' 30 o ++ N 2~°, ~ ~ i QF 10 °ro ~ °{ o Meter Size 1-1/?-IN 2-IN 3-IN 4-IN 6-IN 8-IN Total Meters 192 238 63 35 10 3 Meters Tested 4G 27 29 16 5 1 Failed Testing 16 13 11 9 1 0 Table 3-1 Larae Meter Tested Accuracy by Aae Meter 1.5-IN 2-IN 3-IN 4-IN 6-IN 8-IN Age, Years Number Tested/Accurac Number Tested/Accurac Number Tested/Accurac Number Tested/Accurac Number Tested/Accurac Number Tested/Accurac 0-5 2 98.5% 2 99.5% 6 90.8% 2 73.9% 2 100.6% 1 99.4% 5-10 9 95.8% 3 90.4% 18 93.9% 10 91.6% 1 99.7% N/A N/A 10-15 3 99.6% 11 96.5% 1 99% 4 98.6% 1 99.4% N/A N/A 15-20 10 91.3% 2 80.3% 2 99% N!A N!A 1 86.8% NIA N/A 20+ 22 94 9 92.1% 2 98% N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 3.2.2 Displacement Meters Tested Selected 1-1/2-inch and 2-inch displacement meters were tested by the Project Team. The test results indicate that a significant number of meters are failing (34.7% of the 1-1/2-inch and 48% of the 2-inch). These meters should be replaced as part of a future meter replacement program. Most commercial meters reviewed appeared to be properly sized. HDR Engineering, Int. ~ Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ ~ Page 8 of 26 3.2.3 Compound Meters Tested Compound meters are designed to operate over a wide range of flow rates. Typical consumption recorded by compounds should indicate 30-40% of usage on the low side, and 60-70% on the high side. 27 3-inch, and 13 4-inch compound meters were tested. Based on the evaluations conducted by the Project Team, the compound meters appear to be properly sized for the accounts that were visited. More than one-third of these meters failed to test within recommended specs. It would appear that many of the compound meters that failed are meters that have not been regularly tested and maintained. These meters should be replaced as part of a future meter replacement program. 3.2.4 Turbine Meters Tested Two 3-inch, three 4-inch, five 6-inch, and one 8-inch turbine meters were tested. These meters appear to be big revenue generators for the City. Most are installed in settings where water usage is fairly consistent. Relatively few turbine meters are used by the City but the number of failures and potential lost revenue indicate a replacement is in order. The Project Team tested for "start" flows of the turbine meters. This allowed the team to observe wear patterns for each meter. If the "start" flow was close to the minimum flow and the minimum flow was testing "slow", this indicated the probability of the meter registering "high" at the high flow. This is due to the mechanics of the meter. Although these meters failed, most of the failures were not catastrophic. However, since these meters are registering incorrectly, there is potential for complete failure at any time without warning. 4.0 Revenue Analysis A revenue analysis has been developed to estimate the revenue lost due to inaccurate water meters. The analysis is based on meter size and consumption information provided by the City. Meter age was not considered for the revenue analysis since consumption information was not available based on meter age. Meter age can be considered in evaluating revenue in terms of availability of parts to repair meters. As meters age, accuracy tends to decrease leading to higher lost revenue. Table 4-1 shows meter accuracy by age range. Table 4-1 Meter Accuracy by Age Meter Age, Years Percent of Meter Po ulation Average Percent Accurac 0-5 19.1 % 92.6% 5-10 15.4% 93.6% 10-15 14.0% 97.6% 15-20 8.0% 90.5% 20-25 1.8% 88.5% 25+ l~l 41.7% 90% (1) Majority are residential meters installed prior to the mid 1980s HDR Engineering, IoC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 9 of 26 Figure 4-1 shows the tested meter accuracy, number of total meters and percent of total consumption by meter size. The shaded area represents the range of acceptable accuracy specified by AWWA. The range of acceptable accuracy varies by meter size with values outside of the shaded area considered to fail testing. Figure 4-1 105% 100°J° ~+ c+ v v Q 95% r d V L d a 9D% $5% Meter Size 518-IN 314-IN 1-IN 1-112-IN 2-IN 3-IN Number of Total 20,478 59d 504 192 238 63 Meters Percent o 49.8°!° 2.4% 4.6% 3.5% 11.8% 10.1% Consumption 4-IN 6-IN 8-IN 35 1 D 3 8.2% 3.1% 6.5°!° --•-- +Tested Accuracy AWWA Acceptable Accuracy Rang -- ~-- Total water and wastewater revenue fiscal year 2008 was approximately $8,987,278. A 9% increase is projected for fiscal year 2009 resulting in total revenue of $9,796,133. Table 4-2 shows that 6.9% of total water consumption is not recorded due to meter inaccuracy, resulting in a projected loss in revenue of approximately $676,000 for fiscal year 2009. The lost revenue figure will be compounded over time as existing meter accuracy worsens and water rates increase. HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I Page 10 of 26 Meter Percent Accuracy by Meter size Table 4-2 Estimate of Meter Inaccuracies Meter Size Total Consumption, 100 cubic feet Percent of Consum tion Percent Accurac Volume of Consumption NOT Recorded, 100 cubic feet 5/8-IN 1,271,365 49.80% 91.6% 106,795 '/<-IN 60,963 2.39% 90.1% 6,035 1-IN 116,217 4.55% 99.07% 1,081 1-1/2-IN 88,309 3.46% 94.8% 4,592 2-IN 299,952 11.75% 93.4% 19,797 3-IN 258,782 10.14% 94.2% 15,009 4-IN 210,450 8.24% 91.2% 18,520 6-IN 79,776 3.13% 97.5% 1,994 8-IN 166,940 6.54% 99.4% 1,002 Total 2, 552,754 100% 174, 825 Total (as % of total production) 6.9% Projected Fiscal Year 2009 Water and Wastewater Revenue $9,796,000 Projected Fiscal Year 2009 Revenue Lost to Meter Inaccuracy $676,000 5.0 Recommendations The 2007 Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation considered multiple options for a new meter system. Based on the recommendations of the 2007 Meter Plan and System Evaluation and the results of the recently completed Water Meter Review and Testing, the following recommendations constitute the preferred strategic plan. Meter Reading Technology: Fixed Radio. After preliminary consideration of many meter technologies and detailed consideration of several potential meter options, the automatic meter reading (AMR) alternative of a fixed radio network was identified as the best option for implementation by the City. A fixed radio network allows remote reading of water meters eliminating the need for meter reading labor for monthly billing readings. It is recommended that specific meter brands and options be re-evaluated once bids are solicited and costs are updated. Deployment Time Period: Short (Contractor Installed). A short time period is recommended for deployment of new meters and meter reading technology. With contractor installation, City-wide meter replacement could occur within two years. The deployment period would likely increase to approximately ten years if the City were to deploy new equipment with existing City staff. Deployment Strategy: Opportunistic and Geographical. The recommended meter deployment approach is a combination of opportunistic and geographical strategies. Early opportunistic deployment will allow the City to first replace large meters with known accuracy problems and significant loss of revenue followed by geographical replacement HDR Engineering, InC. ~ Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ ~ Page 11 of 26 which is most efficient when working with Aquila for the replacement meter system replacement. Meter Maintenance/Management: o Before Meter Replacement: Contractor-Managed Meter Testing: This report details the results of the water meter review and testing program. The results of the testing helps the development of acost-effective replacement schedule for water meters and provides recommendations for the correction of the problems located. o During Meter Replacement: City-Managed: It is recommended that the City establish a new meter testing protocol. A statistical sampling of one-half to one percent of all new meters would establish base-line data and confirm accuracy. This phase of meter management would be managed by the City, but the actual meter testing would conducted by the contractor as part of the meter replacement program. o After Meter Replacement: City-Managed: The most important aspect of a water meter plan is the long-term management of the meters to ensure reliability and accuracy. It is recommended that the City develop a routine testing program to track trends in accuracy and maintenance. It is likely that a meter testing program would require some additional number of staff depending on the meter technology selected, which will influence the number of required field staff to an extent. Testing and maintenance is especially important for larger meters since relatively little labor can save significant loss in revenue. Regular testing of compound and turbine meters 3- inches and above and less frequent testing of smaller meters is recommended. Implementation The following are key steps that will aid in implementation of the recommendations outlined above. • Site Visits: Visit other utilities to observe their experiences with water meter replacement programs and systems. Several regional utilities have recently implemented new meter systems. • Develop Meter Maintenance/Management Program: The information that can be obtained regarding its existing metering system will enable the City to better justify revenue recovery, construct bid specifications, develop deployment strategies, and plan for future replacement cycles. • Develop Bid Specifications: The City should consider developing bid specifications for City- wide meter replacement, in parallel with developing the meter maintenance and management program. The purpose of this effort is to learn precisely what options vendors have available to the City and their associated costs. The City will also need to examine these project management requirements. Even with a turnkey project, there are numerous project management and support tasks that must be performed by the City or an agent retained to represent the City. These decisions will affect the overall cost of the project. • Re-evaluate Return on Investment: Once vendor bids are received for City-wide water service meter replacement, the information should be evaluated using the tools such as the cost model and previously discussed approaches. An overriding feature of the meter plan is that it, and the City, must remain flexible and open to change during implementation. The 2007 Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation recommended installing a fixed radio network meter system as the lowest cost alternative. A fixed radio network allows remote reading of water meters, eliminating the need for labor intensive manual meter reading. From the 2007 Water Meter System Evaluation cost model, the 20 year present value cost of a fixed radio network water meter system will be approximately $6,400,000 and includes the cost of new water meters, radio equipment, computers and other hardware. Based on current lost revenue and the estimated 2007 HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I Page 12 of 26 cost for a new fixed network meter system, the payback period would be approximately nine years. Table 5-1 shows the preliminary payback period for the fixed radio network meter replacement program. The lost revenue figure will be compounded over time as existing meter accuracy decreases and water rates increase. Table 5-1 Revenue Recovery for Fiscal Year 2009 Rates Fixed Radio Network Meter System, Years to Pa back at Given Inaccurac 20 Year NPV Ca ital Cost 5% 6.9% 10% $6,400,000 13 9 7 The fixed radio system requires fewer employees for meter reading and results in lower operating and total costs than the existing system contracting with Aquila to read the meters. The fixed radio system alternative assumes City staff will be responsible for the radio network, billing and will continue to perform routine meter maintenance and replacement as is currently done. The Aquila alternative assumes Aquila will read the meters and City staff will be responsible for meter maintenance and billing. There is not expected to be a significant change in City staff levels from the current system to the fixed radio network system. However, the cost of contracting with Aquila will be saved. Currently, the annual cost for Aquila is about $140,000 and is expected to increase approximately 3% per year. In addition to direct cost savings, there are many non-direct financial benefits of moving to a fixed radio network meter system compared to the existing meter system. Fixed radio network meters improve customer service and staff efficiency by allowing real-time meter reading. Water meter remote registers on the side of buildings will be removed and problems with meter accessibility and the need to enter a home or business for meter reading will be eliminated. The large amount of data that can be easily and remotely collected with a fixed radio network system will allow City staff to efficiently develop water system hydraulic models, track water consumption trends and plan for future water system requirements. Parts and repairs for some of the older existing water meters are becoming more difficult; new meters will allow for easier meter repair work. The high number of meters out of specification, annual lost revenue, and other benefits support implementing a meter change-out program. Based on a meter asset life of twenty years and a payback period of nine years, there is a positive payback period and it is recommended that meter replacement be considered. HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I Page 13 of 26 6.0 Appendices 6.1 Small Meter Test Results Table 6-1 Small Meter Test Summary N y z ~ 0- ~ V V Q C ~ ~ ~ ~ c U Q ~ = ~ ~ ~ ~ ~j Q ~ ~ _ ~~ ~~ ~ ~ Oa a~ N O ~ N `~ ~ ~ ~ 5/8" 31077589 .25 94 2 100 15 100 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 29022654 .25 95 2 100 15 100 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 33489825 .25 99 2 100 15 100 P Pre-1988 5!8" 45481245 .25 100 2 100 15 100 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 29875018 .25 93 2 100 15 100 F Pre- 1988 5!8" 39729453 .25 98 2 100 15 100 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 37094018 .25 95 2 100 15 100 P Pre-1988 5/8" 37692723 .25 100 2 100 15 100 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 54635842 .25 98 2 100 15 101 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 37834796 .25 100 2 100 15 100 P Pre- 1988 518" 29374934 .25 97 2 103 15 101 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 36245471 .25 100 2 95 15 100 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217875 .25 101 2 102 15 101 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 37691962 .25 99 2 103 15 102 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 37692452 .25 92 2 101 15 101 F Pre- 1988 518" 31078094 .25 32 2 91 15 100 F 1982 5/8" 37094171 .25 97 2 100 15 99 P Pre-1988 518" 36813601 .25 0 2 0 15 0 F Pre- 1988 518" 35217791 .25 98 2 99 15 100 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 37026129 .25 100 2 97 15 100 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 36245337 .25 99 2 100 15 101 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 35027972 .25 93 2 94 15 99 F Pre- 1988 518" 35477244 .25 95 2 96 15 98 F 1985 5/8" 37692453 .25 89 2 100 15 100 F Pre-1988 5/8" 31393182 .25 91 2 101 15 101 F Pre- 1988 518" 35217328 .25 94 2 100 15 101 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 37093899 .25 78 2 99 15 99 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 29971095 .25 91 2 101 15 101 F Pre- 1988 5!8" 44567080 .25 0 2 0 15 0 F Pre- 1988 5!8" 29109602 .25 95 2 101 15 101 P Pre- 1988 518" 35217581 .25 102 2 101 15 102 F 1985 5/8" 85217777 .25 98 2 98 15 100 P Pre-1988 518" 35217801 .25 0 2 0 15 100 F 1985 5/8" 35217694 .25 97 2 100 15 100 P 1985 HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 14 of 26 Table 6-2 Small Meter Test Summary (Continued) N rn Z ~ ~ (~ C ci Q C d ~ ~ ~ ~ Q L ~ ~ ~ X ci Q X ~ - - ~ f`O LL > y 0 w a~ o ~ _~ ~ lD ~ 5/8" 35217816 .25 96 2 96 15 98 F 1985 5/8" 35218020 .25 95 2 95 15 98 F 1985 5/8" 35217819 .25 102 2 102 15 102 F 1985 5/8" 31077583 .25 96 2 101 15 101 P 1985 5/8" 37834680 .25 98 2 100 15 100 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217841 .25 94 2 95 15 99 F 1985 314" 38046680 .5 99 3 100 25 101 P Pre- 1988 314" 64031816 .5 100 3 100 25 100 P Pre-1988 3/4" 38046802 .5 100 3 100 25 100 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046795 .5 100 3 101 25 102 F Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376157 .5 100 3 99 25 99 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046785 .5 101 3 100 25 101 P Pre- 1988 3!4" 38376155 .5 101 3 100 25 101 P Pre- 1988 314" 29193132 .5 96 3 100 25 101 P Pre- 1988 314" 38376194 .5 0 3 0 25 0 F Pre-1988 3/4" 36406725 .5 100 3 100 25 100 P Pre-1988 3/4" 38046847 .5 88 3 98 25 98 F Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046808 .5 99 3 100 25 100 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046757 .5 0 3 4 25 5 F Pre- 1988 3/4" 17772852 .5 100 3 101 25 101 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046701 .5 101 3 101 25 101 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046715 .5 100 3 101 25 101 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376186 .5 98 3 100 25 100 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046831 .5 100 3 101 25 101 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376198 .5 101 3 100 25 101 P Pre- 1988 3!4" 38376205 .5 99 3 100 25 100 P Pre- 1988 1" 38043704 .75 100 4 100 40 100 P Pre-1988 1" 38043650 .75 93 4 100 40 100 F Pre- 1988 1" 36622069 .75 85 4 97 40 99 F Pre-1988 1" 38043663 .75 100 4 101 40 101 P Pre-1988 1" 38046725 .75 94 4 96 40 100 F Pre- 1988 1" 38943722 .75 99 4 100 40 100 P Pre- 1988 1" 52254726 .75 99 4 100 40 100 P Pre- 1988 1" 38043727 .75 98 4 100 40 100 P Pre- 1988 1" 52254736 .75 100 4 100 40 100 P Pre-1988 1" 26484899 .75 98 4 100 40 100 P Pre- 1988 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I (Page 15 of 26 Table 6-3 Small Meter 15%-70%-15% Weighted Results Minimum Flow Intermediate Flow Maximum Flow Overall Results Accuracy Limits (95%- 101 %) Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5%) Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5%) Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5%) ~ Z ~ ~ ~ ,~ CC L ~ V a ` ~ ~,~ ti CC L a V ~ a ~ ~~ ~. ~ ~ ~ ; 0 .A ~ A > 0 L ~ Q ~ m ,~ ~ 5/8" 31077589 .25 94 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 99.1 p Pre- 1988 5/8" 29022654 .25 95 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 99.25 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 33489825 .25 99 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 99.85 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 45481245 .25 100 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 100 P Pre-1988 5/8" 29875018 .25 93 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 98.95 F pre- 1988 5!8" 39729453 .25 98 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 99.7 p Pre- 1988 5/8" 37094018 .25 95 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 99.25 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 37692723 .25 100 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 100 p Pre- 1988 5!8" 54635842 .25 98 15 2 100 70 15 101 15 99.85 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 37834796 .25 100 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 100 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 29374934 .25 97 15 2 103 70 15 101 15 101.8 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 36245471 .25 100 15 2 95 70 15 100 15 96.5 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217875 .25 101 15 2 102 70 15 101 15 101.7 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 37691962 .25 99 15 2 103 70 15 102 15 102.25 F Pre- 1988 518" 37692452 .25 92 15 2 101 70 15 101 15 99.65 P Pre- 1988 518" 31078094 .25 32 15 2 91 70 15 100 15 83.5 F 1982 5/8" 37094171 .25 97 15 2 100 70 15 99 15 99.4 p Pre- 1988 5/8" 36813601 .25 0 15 2 0 70 15 0 15 0 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217791 .25 98 15 2 99 70 15 100 15 99 P Pre- 1988 518" 37026129 .25 100 15 2 97 70 15 100 15 97.9 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 36245337 .25 99 15 2 100 70 15 101 15 100 p Pre- 1988 5!8" 35027972 .25 93 15 2 94 70 15 99 15 94.6 F Pre- 1988 518" 35477244 .25 95 15 2 96 70 15 98 15 96.15 F 1985 5/8" 37692453 .25 89 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 98.35 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 31393182 .25 91 15 2 101 70 15 101 15 99.5 p Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217328 .25 94 15 2 100 70 15 101 15 99.25 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 37093899 .25 78 15 2 99 70 15 99 15 95.85 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 29971095 .25 91 15 2 101 70 15 101 15 99.5 p Pre- 1988 5/8" 44567080 .25 0 15 2 0 70 15 0 15 0 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 29109602 .25 95 15 2 101 70 15 101 15 100.1 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217581 .25 102 15 2 101 70 15 102 15 101.3 F 1985 5/8" 85217777 .25 98 15 2 98 70 15 100 15 98.3 F pre- 1988 HDR Engineering, InC. ~ Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ ~ Page 16 of 26 Table 6-4 sma~i meter ~5io-iuio-~5% weigni Minimum Flow Intermediate Flow ea rcesuiis ~c:ontin Maximum Flow uea~ Overall Results Accuracy Limits (95%- 101% (98.5%- 101.5% (98.5°k- 101.5% (98.5%- 101.5% N N z_ ~ a U v a C e~ .c N 3 g a C7 N c ci ~ a Cf e ~ .c N 3 a c7 A ~ °+ a A ~ d t .~ 3 ~, -~ m~ > V 0 V Q -~ din > W ~ IY a c o ° `m m f6 N~ :a } N c 5!8" 35217801 .25 0 15 2 0 70 15 100 15 15 F 1985 5/8" 35217694 .25 97 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 99.55 p 1985 5/8" 35217816 .25 96 15 2 96 70 15 98 15 96.3 F 1985 5/8" 35218020 .25 95 15 2 95 70 15 98 15 95.45 F 1985 5/8" 35217819 .25 102 15 2 102 70 15 102 15 102 F 1985 5!8" 31077583 .25 96 15 2 101 70 15 101 15 100.25 P 1985 5/S" 37834680 .25 98 15 2 100 70 15 100 15 99.7 p Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217841 .25 94 15 2 95 70 15 99 15 95.45 F 1985 3/4" 38046680 .5 99 15 3 100 70 25 101 15 100 p Pre- 1988 3/4" 64031816 .5 100 15 3 100 70 25 100 15 100 p Pre- 1988 3!4" 38046802 .5 100 15 3 100 70 25 100 15 100 p Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046795 .5 100 15 3 101 70 25 102 15 101 p Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376157 .5 100 15 3 99 70 25 99 15 99.15 P Pre- 1988 314" 38046785 .5 101 15 3 100 70 25 101 15 100.3 P Pre-1988 3/4" 38376155 .5 101 15 3 100 70 25 101 15 100.3 p Pre- 1988 314" 29193132 .5 96 15 3 100 70 25 101 15 99.55 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376194 .5 0 15 3 0 70 25 0 15 0 F Pre- 1988 3/4" 36406725 .5 100 15 3 100 70 25 100 15 100 p Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046847 .5 88 15 3 98 70 25 98 15 96.5 F Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046808 .5 99 15 3 100 70 25 100 15 99.85 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046757 .5 0 15 3 4 70 25 5 15 3.55 F Pre- 1988 3/4" 17772852 .5 100 15 3 101 70 25 101 15 100.85 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046701 .5 101 15 3 101 70 25 101 15 101 p Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046715 .5 100 15 3 101 70 25 101 15 100.85 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376186 .5 98 15 3 100 70 25 100 15 99.7 P Pre- 1988 3!4" 38046831 .5 100 15 3 101 70 25 101 15 100.85 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376198 .5 101 15 3 100 70 25 101 15 100.3 p Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376205 .5 99 15 3 100 70 25 100 15 99.85 p Pre- 1988 1" 38043704 .75 100 15 4 100 70 40 100 15 100 p Pre-1988 1" 38043650 .75 93 15 4 100 70 40 100 15 98.95 P Pre- 1988 1" 36622069 .75 85 15 4 97 70 40 99 15 95.5 F Pre- 1988 1" 38043663 .75 100 15 4 101 70 40 101 15 100.85 P Pre- 1988 1" 38046725 .75 94 15 4 96 70 40 100 15 96.3 F Pre- 1988 1" 38943722 .75 99 15 4 100 70 40 100. 15 99.85 P Pre- 1988 1" 52254726 .75 99 15 4 100 70 40 100 15 99.85 P Pre- 1988 1" 38043727 .75 98 15 4 100 70 40 100 15 99.7 p Pre- 1988 1" 52254736 .75 100 15 4 100 70 40 100 15 100 P Pre-1988 1" 26484899 .75 98 15 4 100 70 40 100 15 99.7 P Pre- 1988 HDR Engineering, Int. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 17 of 26 Table 6-5 Small Meter 5%-90%-5% Weighted Results Accuracy Limits (95%- 101% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% rn rn v 'eo ~ ~ v ~ ~ ~ t~ ~ 7 y N O ~ N ? a a m ~ a `~° O a ~ a a `~ to (!~ (7 L ~ ~ ~ N X ~ L ~_ ~ N ~ .~ C C o ~ ~ ~ •~ t0 ~ ~ C 3 rn 3 > > } 0 o O O ~ ~ 5/8" 31077589 i .25 ' 94 5 2 ' 100 90 15 100 5 99.7 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 29022654 .25 95 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.75 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 33489825 .25 99 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.95 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 45481245 .25 100 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 100 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 29875018 .25 93 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.65 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 39729453 .25 98 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.9 P Pre- 1988 518" 37094018 .25 95 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.75 P Pre- 1988 518" 37692723 .25 100 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 100 P Pre- 1988 518" 54635842 .25 98 5 2 100 90 15 101 5 99.95 P Pre- 1988 518" 37834796 .25 100 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 100 P Pre- 1988 518" 29374934 .25 97 5 2 103 90 15 101 5 102.6 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 36245471 .25 100 5 2 95 90 15 100 5 95.5 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217875 .25 101 5 2 102 90 15 101 5 101.9 F Pre- 1988 518" 37691962 .25 99 5 2 103 90 15 102 5 102.75 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 37692452 .25 92 5 2 101 90 15 101 5 100.55 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 31078094 .25 32 5 2 91 90 15 100 5 88.5 F 1982 5/8" 37094171 .25 97 5 2 100 90 15 99 5 99.8 p Pre- 1988 518" 36813601 .25 0 5 2 0 90 15 0 5 0 F Pre- 1988 518" 35217791 .25 98 5 2 99 90 15 100 5 99 P Pre- 1988 518" 37026129 .25 100 5 2 97 90 15 100 5 97.3 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 36245337 .25 99 5 2 100 90 15 101 5 100 P Pre- 1988 518" 35027972 .25 93 5 2 94 90 15 99 5 94.2 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 35477244 .25 95 5 2 96 90 15 98 5 96.05 F 1985 5/8" 37692453 .25 89 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.45 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 31393182 .25 91 5 2 101 90 15 101 5 100.5 P Pre- 1988 518" 35217328 .25 94 5 2 100 90 15 101 5 99.75 P Pre-1988 518" 37093899 .25 78 5 2 99 90 15 99 5 97.95 F Pre- 1988 518" 29971095 .25 91 5 2 101 90 15 101 5 100.5 P Pre- 1988 5/8" 44567080 .25 0 5 2 0 90 15 0 5 0 F Pre- 1988 5!8" 29109602 .25 95 5 2 101 90 15 101 5 100.7 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 35217581 .25 102 5 2 101 90 15 102 5 101.1 P 1985 5/8" 85217777 .25 98 5 2 98 90 15 100 5 98.1 F Pre- 1988 5/8" 35217801 .25 0 5 2 0 90 15 100 5 5 F 1985 HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I Page 18 of 26 Table 6-6 Small Meter 5%-90%-5% Weighted Results (Continued) Accuracy Limits (95%- 101% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% N N Z (n d (~ V Q C rn N ~ ~ L ~ 0 ~ d C7 N C V Q d = L N ~ ~ ~> ~ ~ ~ ~ X ~ ei Q CCx G rn ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ o ~ ~ V 7 V a L O .~ W !6 a L O L N O ~ f6 O~ ~ N 5/8" 35217694 .25 97 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.85 P 1985 5/8" 35217816 .25 96 5 2 96 90 15 98 5 96.1 F 1985 5/8" 35218020 .25 95 5 2 95 90 15 98 5 95.15 F 1985 5/8" 35217819 .25 102 5 2 102 90 15 102 5 102 F 1985 5!8" 31077583 .25 96 5 2 101 90 15 101 5 100.75 P 1985 5!8" 37834680 .25 98 5 2 100 90 15 100 5 99.9 P Pre- 1988 5!8" 35217841 .25 94 5 2 95 90 15 99 5 95.15 F 1985 3/4" 38046680 .5 99 5 3 100 90 25 101 5 100 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 64031816 .5 100 5 3 100 90 25 100 5 100 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046802 .5 100 5 3 100 90 25 100 5 100 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046795 .5 100 5 3 101 90 25 102 5 101 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376157 .5 100 5 3 99 90 25 99 5 99.05 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046785 .5 101 5 3 100 90 25 101 5 100.1 P Pre- 1988 314" 38376155 .5 101 5 3 100 90 25 101 5 100.1 P Pre- 1988 3!4" 29193132 .5 96 5 3 100 90 25 101 5 99.85 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376194 .5 0 5 3 0 90 25 0 5 0 F Pre-1988 3/4" 36406725 .5 100 5 3 100 90 25 100 5 100 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046847 .5 88 5 3 98 90 25 98 5 97.5 F Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046808 .5 99 5 3 100 90 25 100 5 99.95 P Pre- 1988 314" 38046757 .5 0 5 3 4 90 25 5 5 3.85 F Pre- 1988 3!4" 17772852 .5 100 5 3 101 90 25 101 5 100.95 P Pre- 1988 314" 38046701 .5 101 5 3 101 90 25 101 5 101 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38046715 .5 100 5 3 101 90 25 101 5 100.95 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376186 .5 98 5 3 100 90 25 100 5 99.9 p Pre-1988 3/4" 38046831 .5 100 5 3 101 90 25 101 5 100.95 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376198 .5 101 5 3 100 90 25 101 5 100.1 P Pre- 1988 3/4" 38376205 .5 99 5 3 100 90 25 100 5 99.95 P Pre- 1988 1" 38043704 .75 100 5 4 100 90 40 100 5 100 P Pre-1988 1" 38043650 .75 93 5 4 100 90 40 100 5 99.65 P Pre- 1988 1" 36622069 .75 85 5 4 97 90 40 99 5 96.5 F Pre- 1988 1" 38043663 .75 100 5 4 101 90 40 101 5 100.95 P Pre- 1988 1" 38046725 .75 94 5 4 96 90 40 100 5 96.1 F Pre- 1988 1" 38943722 .75 99 5 4 100 90 40 100 5 99.95 P Pre- 1988 1" 52254726 .75 99 5 4 100 90 40 100 5 99.95 P Pre- 1988 1" 38043727 .75 98 5 4 100 90 40 100 5 99.9 P Pre- 1988 1" 52254736 .75 100 5 4 100 90 40 100 5 100 P Pre-1988 1" 26484899 .75 98 5 4 100 90 40 100 5 99.9 P Pre- 1988 HOR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I Page 19 of 26 6.2 Large Meter Test Results HDR Engineering, Inc. ~ Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ ~ Page 20 of 26 Table 6-7 1-1 /2-inch Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Flow Year Size Mf . T S/N GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Installed 1.5" Sensus Displacement 28671905 1.5 90 5 98 11 ' 100 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38287304 1.5 70 5 70 13 75 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 45266398 1.5 95 5 96 14 98 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38413501 1.5 86 8 98 15 100 FAILED 1987 1.5" Sensus Displacements 38991250 1.5 80 8 95 15 99 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 27317679 1.5 95 10 95 22.5 98 FAILED 2003 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38485645 1.5 60 10 85 17 90 FAILED 200 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38991255 1.5 40 5 40 10 60 FAILED 1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38287506 1.5 40 8 98 16 100 FAILED 1990 1.5" Sensus Displacement 45474538 1.5 80 5 90 11.5 90 FAILED 1996 1.5" Sensus Displacement 39273884 1.5 70 5 70 10 80 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 26408166 1.5 95 5 95 10 98 FAILED 1999 1.5" Sensus Displacement 41548055 1.5 80 5 100 15 100 FAILED 1989 1.5" Sensus Displacement 28544557 1.5 90 5 92 13 92 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 29799513 1.5 70 7 70 14 70 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 22247724 1.5 100 8 100 16 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 33620107 1.5 98 8 98 15 98 FAILED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 22247723 1.5 100 5 100 13 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 26468167 1.5 100 5 100 13 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 55482375 1.5 100 5 100 13 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38287509 1.5 100 5 100 13 101 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 28671906 1.5 100 10 100 19 101 PASSED 2000 1.5" Sensus Displacement 61244507 1.5 100 10 100 17 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 27317676 1.5 100 6 100 12 100 PASSED 2000 1.5" Sensus Displacement 27569332 1.5 100 6 101 13 101 PASSED 2000 1.5" Sensus Displacement 40350062 1.5 99 5 100 11 100 PASSED 1991 1.5" Sensus Displacement 28158682 1.5 99 10 99 20 100 PASSED 1994 1.5" Sensus Displacement 45266394 2 100 5 100 10 100 PASSED 1992 1.5" Sensus Displacement 40350071 1.5 99 10 100 25 100 PASSED 1989 1.5" Sensus Displacement 19640508 1.5 101 5 101 13 101 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 33440411 1.5 100 5 100 11 100 PASSED 2000 1.5" Sensus Displacement. 41548060 1.5 99 5 99 13 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 36620109 1.5 100 5 100 11 100 PASSED 1987 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38287503 1.5 100 5 100 12 101 PASSED 1987 1.5" Sensus Displacement 38287500 1.5 99 5 99 11.2 99 PASSED 1989 1.5" Sensus Displacement 39071815 1.5 100 8 100 14 101 PASSED 1989 1.5" Sensus Displacement. 33440410 1.5 100 7 100 14 100 PASSED 1989 1.5" Sensus Displacement 33913698 1.5 100 15 100 25 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 31069679 1.5 101 10 101 19 101 PASSED 2003 1.5" Sensus Displacement 27314273 1.5 101 8 101 16 101 PASSED 2000 1.5" Sensus Displacement 35615032 1.5 100 5 100 11 101 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 36310763 1.5 100 6 100 12 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 27314264 1.5 100 5 100 11.5 100 PASSED 1999 1.5" Sensus Displacement 25523409 1.5 100 5 100 11 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Displacement 27569451 1.5 100 8 100 16 100 PASSED Pre-1988 1.5" Sensus Dis lacement 43234343 1.5 100 5 100 11 100 PASSED Pre-1988 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Page 21 of 26 Table 6-8 2-inch Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Fiow Year Size Mf . T e S/N GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Installed 2" Sensus Displacement ' 31505771 2 85 8 90 15 90 FAILED 1992 2" Sensus Displacement 45881441 2 92 8 98 19 99 FAILED 1992 2" Sensus Displacement 42806190 2 85 10 100 25 100 FAILED 1995 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 45468506 1.5 56 5 66 11 71 FAILED 1988 2" Sensus Displacement 31505770 2 75 5 80 10 90 FAILED 1990 2" Sensus Displacement 20927598 2 60 10 70 25 90 FAILED 1999 2" Sensus Displacement 33111740 2 80 5 80 10 80 FAILED 1990 2" Sensus Displacement 46353294 2 80 5 98 10 98 FAILED 1994. 2" Sensus Displacement 19396051 2 94 4 94 8.7 96 FAILED 1992 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 42876596 2 75 7 90 15.3 90 FAILED 1988 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 42383836 2 86 5 89 10 89 FAILED 1988 2" Sensus Displacement 33905384 2 94 5 96 11 97 FAILED 1991 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 43806199 2 90 5 90 11 94 FAILED 1988 2" Sensus Displacement 33170576 2 100 5 100 11 100 PASSED 1992 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 42556756 2 101 10 101 17 101 PASSED 1988 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 60968662 2 99 5 100 10.5 100 PASSED 1988 2" Sensus Displacement 39016546 2 100 5 100 10 100 PASSED 2002 2" Sensus Displacement 39371826 2 98 5 100 11 100 PASSED 1997 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 43806201 2 99 8 100 15 100 PASSED 1988 2" Sensus Displacement 46353292 2 98 5 99 13 99 PASSED 1997 Pre- 2" Sensus Displacement 43806176 2 100 10 100 28 100 PASSED 1988 2" Sensus Displacement 39494696 2 99 8 99 15 99 PASSED 1992 2" Sensus Displacement 46287421 1.5 100 10 100 21 100 PASSED 1992 2" Sensus Displacement 43806202 2 99 5 99 10 99 PASSED 2001 2" Sensus Displacement 42511965 2 100 5 101 10 101 PASSED 1991 2" Sensus Displacement 33509194 2 100 5 100 10 100 PASSED 1991 Pre- 2" Sensus Dis lacement 47299827 2 100 5 100 10 100 PASSED 1988 HDR Engineering, InC. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 22 of 26 Table 6-9 3-inch Turbine Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Start Flow Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Flow ', ' ' Size ! Mf . ' T e S!N GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Year .Installed 3" Sensus '; Turbo 1548276 3" Sensus. Turbo 1575864 5 93 4 0 8 100 S 0 150 100.3 150 101.3 284 100.5 266 101 PASSED FAILED 1986 2001 Table 6-10 3-inch Compound Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 97%-103% 97%-103% not less than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% Low Flow Below Crossover Crossover Above Crossover Intermediate Hi h Flow Size Mf S/N Status GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Year Installed 3" Sensus 1561915 FAILED 1 98.9 5 95 15 89 30 96 75 104 150 103.2 Pre- 1988 3" Rockwell 1228961 FAILED 1 98 5 98 14 95 30 98 75 103 150 103.5 Pre- 1988 3" Sensus 1603899 FAILED 1 96.3 5 99 15 95 30 100 75 100.1 150 100.7 2001 3" Rockwell 1254976 FAILED 1 99 5 96 15 89 30 100.7 75 101.9 150 104 1998 3" Sensus 1603887 FAILED 1 0 5 0 15 0 30 104 75 104 150 103.3 2000 3" Sensus 1144101 FAILED 1 96.9 5 95 10 90 30 100.9 75 103.2 150 104 1998 3" Sensus 1597364 FAILED 1 90 5 100 15 89 30 99 75 100.5 150 101 2001 3" Sensus 1590607 FAILED 1 0 5 0 15 0 30 100.7 75 101 150 102.6 2000 3" Sensus 1352111 FAILED 1 99.9 5 100.2 15 98 30 99 75 100.9 150 104.2 2001 3" Sensus 1577980 FAILED 1 90 5 99 15 98 30 99.5 75 101 150 101.9 2000 3" Rockwell 1392283 PASSED 1 100 5 100.5 15 98 30 99.9 75 100.3 150 99.2 1995 3" Sensus 1594700 PASSED 1 98.9 5 100 15 98.6 30 100 75 100.7 150 101.4 1999 3" Sensus 1600154 PASSED 1 97 5 100.3 15 94.5 30 98.7 75 100.9 150 101.2 1999 3" Sensus 1561914 PASSED 1 100.7 5 98.9 15 99 30 99.6 75 101.5 150 102 1999 3" Sensus 1571771 PASSED 1 100 5 99 14 99 30 98.9 75 100 150 100.9 1999 3" Rockwell 1228282 PASSED 1 100.9 5 101.2 15 100.3 30 100.9 75 102 150 101.9 1996 3" Rockwell 1146519 PASSED 1 100.3 5 99.9 15 97 30 100 75 99.4 150 99 1998 3" Rockwell 1144374 PASSED 1 100 5 99 14 93 30 99 75 99.9 150 102.8 1998 3" Sensus 1145078 PASSED 1 99 5 100 15 94 30 98.9 75 101 150 101.9 1997 3" Rockwell 1144373 PASSED 1 100 5 99 15 92 30 100.7 75 99 150 99 1997 3" Sensus 1253333 PASSED 1 98 5 100.7 15 98 30 100.1 75 102 150 100.3 1997 3" Sensus 1384114 PASSED 1 100 5 100 15 95 30 100 75 100.7 150 102.7 1997 3" Sensus 1571555 PASSED 1 98.3 5 100.2 15 95 30 99.7 75 100 150 100.1 1999 3" Sensus 1352568 PASSED 1 100 5 99 15 96 30 100.6 75 101 150 102 2001 3" Sensus 1626683 PASSED 1 99.8 5 100.9 15 97 30 100.3 75 101.9 150 101 1986 3" Sensus 1293580 PASSED 1 100 5 100.7 15 97 30 99.8 75 100 150 101.4 2000 3" Sensus 1626680 PASSED 1 100.2 5 100 15 93 30 98 75 101 150 102.3 2001 HDR Engineering, Inc. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I Page 23 of 26 Table 6-11 4-inch Turbine Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Start Flow Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Flow Year Size Mf T e S/N GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Installed 4" Rockwell Turbine ' 1371720 8 91 15 100 150 100.1 300 102 FAILED 1993 4" Sensus Turbine 58953982 13 89 15 99 150 100 300 101.1 PASSED 2001 4" Rockwell Turbine 1400143 9 20 15 79.2 150 .101.7 300 100.8 FAILED 2000 Table 6-12 4-inch Compound Meter Summary Accurac Limits 97%-103% 97%-103% not less than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% Low Flow Below Crossover Crossover Above Crossover Interm. Hi h Flow Size Mf S/N Status GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Year Installed 4" Rockwell 1167668 FAILED 1 98.6 5 97.6 20 87 50 104 100 99 200 100.9 1999 4" Sensus 1626267 FAILED 1 0 5 0 20 0 50 101.9 100 100 200 101.3 2001 4" Rockwell 1249409 FAILED 1 89 5 97 20 93 50 100.6 100 100 200 101.3 1991 4" Sensus 1168057 FAILED 1 94 5 90 20 96 50 96 100 99 200 102 2000 4" Sensus 1546360 FAILED 1 0 5 0 20 0 50 100.6 100 101 200 102.9 1999 4" Sensus 1609734 FAILED 1 101.2 5 97 20 100.2 50 101 100 104 200 103.9 2000 4" Sensus 1418390 FAILED 1 93 5 89 20 90 50 99.9 100 100.8 200 102.9 2000 4" Sensus 1158621 PASSED 1 98 5 97.5 19 96 50 100 100 100.7 200 102 1996 4" Sensus 1567039 PASSED 1 100.1 5 100 20 99 50 101 100 100.9 200 102.5 1999 4" Rockwell 1202959 PASSED 1 100.3 5 100.5 15 96 50 100 100 101 200 101 1999 4" Sensus 1581701 PASSED 1 99.8 5 100 19 99.6 50 99.9 100 100 200 99.7 1999 4" Sensus 1428627 PASSED 1 100 5 100.7 20 98 50 100.7 100 100 200 101.6 1995 4" Sensus 1415104 PASSED 1 99 5 100 19 95 50 100 100 101.1 200 100.9 1993 HDR Engineering, Inc. ~ Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ ~ Page 24 of 26 Table 6-13 6-inch Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 97%-103% 97%-103% not less than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% low Flow Below Crossover Crossover Above Crossover Interm. Hi h Flow Size Mf . S/N Status GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Year Installed 6" Sensus 1624988 PASSED 1.5 103 5 102 25 100 50 99.9 150 102 300 102 2003 6" Rockwell 1200594 FAILED 1.5 82 5 70 20 65 50 100 150 101.4 300 102.9 1987 6" Rockwell 1200760 PASSED 1.5 97 5 98.7 20 97 50 99.6 150 102 300 102.6 1991 6" Sensus 1577704 PASSED 1.5 99 5 100.5 20 96 50 100.7 150 100.5 300 102 2003 6" Sensus 1574655 PASSED 1.5 100 5 100 20 97 50 100.3 150 100 300 101.2 2000 Table 6-14 8-inch Meter Test Summary not less Limits I 97%-103% I 97%-103% I than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% Low Flow I Crossover I Crossover 1 Crossover 8"x2" Sensus 11413946 Year Installed HDR Engineering, Inc. I Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing I I Page 25 of 26 EXHIBIT C 1'HE CITY OF DLTB E Masterpiece on tine Mississippi Final Water Meter Review and Testing Phase Two March 2009 Prepared by: 1~~ HDR Engineering, Inc. J ~ THE CITY O- F ~~,. L~LTB E Masterpiece on the Mississippi I ONE COMPANY ~~ Many Solutionss"" Technical Memorandum To: Ken TeKippe, City of Dubuque From: HDR Engineering Project: Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Phase Two Date: March 23, 2008 ,lob No: HDR 89119 RE: Technical Memorandum -Final Water Meter Review and Testing Table of Contents 1.0 Executive Summary .................................................................................................................. 2 2.0 Meter Testing Program ............................................................................................................ . 4 2.1 Meter Testing Goals and Objectives ............................................................................... . 4 2.2 Description of Water Meter Technologies Tested .......................................................... . 4 2.3 Methodology ................................................................................................................... .5 3.0 Phase Two Meter Test Results ................................................................................................. . 7 3.1 Phase Two Small Meter Test Results ............................................................................. . 7 3.2 Phase Two Large Meter Test Results .............................................................................. 8 4.0 Summary of Phase One and Phase Two Results ...................................................................... 9 5.0 Revenue Analysis .................................................................................................................... 11 6.0 Recommendations ................................................................................................................... 13 6.1 Implementation Considerations -Next Steps ................................................................ 14 7.0 Appendices .............................................................................................................................. 17 7.1 Small Meter Test Results ............................................................................................... 17 7.2 Large Meter Test Results ............................................................................................... 23 7.3 Typical Consultant Draft Procurement/Implementation Project Approach ................... 28 7.4 Summary of 2007 Cost Model Results .......................................................................... 33 HDR Engineering, 1nC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 1.0 Executive Summary During July through October of 2007, HDR performed a Water Meter System Evaluation for the City of Dubuque. Recommendations for future improvements and upgrades to the water meter system were developed. A recommendation from the study was to perform testing and evaluation of the existing water meters due to the large portion of the City's meter population nearing or past the expected life span of approximately 15 to 20 years. As meters age, they become worn, which over time reduces or slows the overall registration of the meter. This meter inaccuracy influences water consumption measurement which in turn reduces collected revenue. In order to determine the magnitude of potential meter inaccuracies within the City's meter population, HDR was selected in cooperation with M.E. Simpson to conduct a Water Meter Review and Testing program. The program tested a sampling of Dubuque's meters to identify typical meter inaccuracies resulting from their age and application. Based on the meter testing conducted in September through October of 2008, a significant number of small and large meters failed testing: 35.7% of the small meters (5/8-inch to 1-inch) and 40.3% of the large meters (1-1/2-inch to 8-inch) failed, indicating that meter replacement is needed. The test results also indicated that some of the failed meters were less than five years old. To further evaluate the performance of meters less than five years old, a Phase Two meter testing study was conducted in February through March 2009 that focused primarily on mid-sized and large meters less than five years old. The Phase Two testing indicated that 15.4% of small meters (5/8- inch to 1-inch) and 9.7% of large meters (1-1/2-inch to 6-inch) failed. As expected, the number of meters that failed was less than in the Phase One testing, although some results were notable given the low age of the meters. Considering the combined Phase One and Phase Two results, a significant number of relatively new large compound type meters failed, indicating that a meter testing and maintenance program would be beneficial once new meters are installed. It is not cost effective to repair small meters, although testing a sample of the small meter population is useful to determine meter accuracy, lost revenue, and the need for future meter replacement. Large meters measure a much higher consumption volume with higher associated revenue than a small meter. For example, a single turbine meter may measure 500 to 1,000 times more water than a residential meter. Although the number of large meters in the system is small, a regular preventative maintenance and repair program would provide significant benefits through extend meter life, proper accuracy and associated maximized water revenue. The additional testing would require additional staff or outsourcing to a contractor. A revenue analysis was conducted based on the combined Phase One and Phase Two testing results, meter size, and consumption information. The revenue analysis estimates that 138,000 cubic feet of water or 5.4% of annual consumption is not recorded by the water meters. The volume of water not recorded results in a projected loss of water and sewer revenue of approximately $530,000 for fiscal year 2009. This value is likely lower than the actual value since the majority of the meters tested for Phase Two were less than five years old and meter failure and inaccuracy increases with age. The meters tested for Phase One represented a wider range of meter ages and based on the Phase One results 6.9% of annual consumption is not recorded by the water meters, resulting in a projected loss of $676,000 in lost water and sewer revenues for fiscal year 2009. Over time, lost revenues will increase as meter failure, inaccuracies and water rates increase. HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing The high number of meters out of specification and the associated annual lost revenue support implementing a meter change-out program. The 2007 Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation recommended installing a fixed radio network meter system as the lowest cost alternative. A fixed radio network allows remote reading of water meters, eliminating the need for labor intensive manual meter reading. From the 2007 Water Meter System Evaluation cost model, the 20 year present value cost of a fixed radio network water meter system will be approximately $6,850,000 (2009 dollars) and includes the cost of new water meters, radio equipment, computers and other hardware. Based on the combined Phase One and Phase Two current lost revenue and the estimated 2007 cost updated to 2009 dollars for a new fixed network meter system, the payback period would be approximately twelve years. Based on the Phase One meter testing results, the payback period would be approximately nine years. Table 1-1 shows the preliminary payback period for the fixed radio network meter replacement program. The lost revenue figure will be compounded over time as existing meter accuracy decreases and water rates increase. Table 1-1 Revenue Recovery for Fiscal Year 2009 Rates Fixed Radio Network Meter System, Years to Pa back at Given Inaccurac 20 Year Present Value (2009 Dollars) Capital Cost 5% 5.4% 6.9% 10% $6, 850, 000 14 12.9 10 7 The fixed radio system requires fewer employees for meter reading and results in lower operating and total costs than the existing system contracting with Aquila to read the meters. The fixed radio system alternative assumes City staff will be responsible for the radio network, billing and will continue to perform routine meter maintenance and replacement as is currently done. There is not expected to be any change in City staff levels from the current system to the fixed radio network system. However, the cost of contracting with Aquila will be saved. Currently, the annual cost for Aquila is about $142,000 and is expected to increase approximately 3% per year due to anticipated inflation. A limited number of the City's newer meters in good working condition could be retrofitted to work with a fixed radio meter system. Retrofit is not recommended for smaller meters due to the low marginal cost of meter replacement compared to the cost of meter retrofit. In addition, if all small meters are replaced, the system would be standardized around one type of meter with similar age that reduces inventory, and improves scheduling of future replacement. Retrofit and repair could be beneficial for some large meters, although further evaluation will be required to determine if retrofitting is cost effective. In addition to direct cost savings, there are many operational and non-direct financial benefits of moving to a fixed radio network meter system compared to the existing meter system. Fixed radio network meters improve customer service and staff efficiency by allowing real-time meter reading. Water meter remote registers on the side of buildings will be removed and problems with meter accessibility and the need to enter a home or business for meter reading will be eliminated. The large amount of data that can be easily and remotely collected with a fixed radio network system will allow City staff to efficiently develop water system hydraulic models, track water consumption trends and plan for future water system requirements. Parts and repairs for some of the older existing water meters are becoming more difficult and new meters will allow for easier meter repair work. HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing The high number of meters out of specification, annual lost revenue, and other benefits support implementing a meter change-out program. Based on a meter asset life of twenty years and a payback period of approximately ten years, there is a positive payback period and a meter replacement program is recommended. 2.0 Meter Testing Program 2.1 Meter Testing Goals and Objectives The water meter review and testing program was designed to locate inconsistencies in the metering of water and to identify meter accuracy problems resulting from age of meters, and application. The review helps the development of acost-effective replacement schedule for water meters and provides recommendations for the correction of the identified problems. Phase One of the meter testing program was completed in November 2008 and focused on a broad cross section of the meter population based on meter size and age. The results of the Phase One meter testing indicated a higher than expected failure rate among some newer meters. To further evaluate the performance of newer meters, additional meter tests (Phase Two) were conducted that focused primarily on meters less than five years old. Select information for various meter accounts was copied from the City's database for review and evaluation. These data were used to put together a cross section of meters based on their age, size, and type. Based on patterns of consumption and meter record information, an application evaluation was performed. This evaluation compared the historical meter use to American Water Works Association (AWWA) standard specifications relating to proper meter size and application as well as age and wear. 2.2 Description of Water Meter Technologies Tested The following sections briefly describe three common types of water meters. 2.2.1 Positive Displacement Meters Positive displacement meters are typically used in residential and commercial applications with low flow rates and sizes of less than 2-inches. Displacement meters work by using water to "push" or displace a piston or nutating disk connected to a measuring system. Displacement meters are commonly used in applications with flow rates of less than 50 gallons per minute. High flow rates in displacement meters can create high head losses that make their use impractical for large meters. 2.2.2 Compound Meters Compound meters are used for applications that require measurement of a wide range of flow rates. A compound meter consists of two separate meters and a check valve that controls flow to each meter. The low flow meter is usually a positive displacement meter and the high flow meter is often a turbine meter. As flow rates increase, a check valve opens to divert a portion or all of the water to the high flow meter. The readings from each meter are added to determine the total water consumption. Compound meters can experience inaccuracy during "change-over" when the check HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing valve is partially open and flow is diverted to both meters. It is important to test compound meters over a wide range of flow rates. Compound meters tend to require more maintenance than other meter types. Inaccuracy at high flow rates caused by either a faulty check valve or faulty high flow meter can result in potentially high losses in revenue. 2.2.3 Turbine Meters Turbine meters work by using water to rotate a turbine connected to a registering device. Turbine meters are designed for high flow applications and low head losses. Turbine meters are not very accurate at low or highly variable flow rates and are commonly available in sizes 2-inches and greater. The number of turbine meters used in most cities is typically small compared to other meter types; however a single turbine meter may measure 500 to 1,000 times more water volume than a residential meter per month, making them an important consideration. 2.3 Methodology The meter test methodology used for Phase Two of the water meter testing was similar to the methodology used for Phase One. Small meters up to 1-inch were tested in the City maintenance shop following AWWA standards. The large meter testing program went beyond the stated AWWA meter testing specifications. There are differences between meter testing conducted in the field versus testing meters in a controlled laboratory environment or established meter testing shop using volumetric tanks. Field conditions should be taken into consideration when testing meters in the field. Also the AWWA M-6 meter testing manual has no set "standards" for field testing, only to try to emulate as close as possible the suggested meter testing flow or to follow each meter manufacturer's suggested flow rates. Therefore, the Project Team found it imperative to adhere to a strict method of field testing while taking into consideration the AWWA meter performance standards. This methodology was designed to allow for a systematic diagnosis of the meter's performance based on several flow rates across that specific meter's size and type beyond the AWWA's three tests (minimum, intermediate, and maximum). Meters were tested across a range of flows in order to determine patterns of mechanical wear at various flow rates. The flow rates used are a combination of AWWA recommended flow rates (per M-6 manual of the AWWA) and meter manufacturer flow rates. All compound meters were tested at six flows rates, concentrating on the change over rate which is the most critical flow rate in a compound water meter. (AWWA states three tests, the change over rate being one of them. *Reference AWWA M6 Manual, 4th edition -Chapter 5) 1-1/2-inch and larger meters were tested by comparative methods using a certified test meter to test the water customer's meter within its normal operating range or by volumetric methods per AWWA M-6 Manual. Our comparative test meters were Sensus (formerly Rockwell) models that record total volume and current velocity for each of the 4 to 6 tests conducted. The test meters had "Electronic Registers" that were automatically reset to zero after each test. These comparative test meter units are themselves "Tested and Certified Accurate" at least once each year. Certificates of Accuracy were available on the service trucks if questions existed about how the meters were to be tested. There was a minimum of a two person field crew working on the meter testing program at all times, both in the field and during the shop testing of the smaller meters. All meters with a test port were HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing tested in place. Meter installations where there were no test ports were documented. Each meter was analyzed as to the meter setting (i.e. installed piping connection configuration and service application) to determine if the meter could be tested in place without removal, and without undue inconvenience to the water customer. The Project Team observed each setting for an inlet valve, an outlet valve to be able to isolate the meter from use during testing, and a test port of correct size as well as position to attain enough flow velocity to test the meter across the range of flow rates for that specific meter. If a by-pass line was available, it was flushed prior to testing to insure no water service interruption for a critical customer such as a hospital. During each test, proper meter application and sizing were confirmed by visual inspection of the general area and observed meter readings to ensure the correct meter was in place and the setting is correct for the application (the meter setting is important because improper configurations can adversely affect meter accuracy). Some of the 1-1/2-inch and 2-inch displacement meters were able to be tested in place by using available test ports of existing backflow preventors. Here it was critical to achieve at least 10% or more of the lower operating range of that particular meter to be able to qualify as a valid meter test (per AWWA M-6 manual). Some of the 1-1/2-inch and 2-inch meters were tested at a sink using a calibrated small meter. Again, the flow tests used were at or over the lower 10% of the operating range of the meter. Shutdowns were limited when possible to minimize inconvenience for water customers. For Phase Two, testing of small meters (5/8-inch to 1-inch) included meters installed during or since 2002. Testing of large meters focused primarily on meters installed during or since 2002, although a small number of older meters were tested to provide additional information. Meters were randomly selected from this pool of candidates. A total of 152 meters were tested, ranging in size from 5/8- inch to 6-inches as follows: • 5/8-inch meters: 9 tested • 3/4-inch meters: 14 tested • 1-inch meters: 16 tested • 1-1/2-inch meters: 28 tested • 2-inch meters: 29 tested • 3-inch meters: 3 turbine meters and 32 compound meters were tested • 4-inch meters: 3 turbine meters and 15 compound meters were tested. • 6-inch meters: 1 compound meter and 2 fire line (6"x2") meters were tested The Project Team maintained an interactive role with the City Staff. The field staff met with assigned City Staff as needed. The Project Team worked with the City and water customers for all test scheduling and two (2) person teams were used to perform the work. Frequent communication was maintained with City Staff so problem meters and/or issues with water customers could be addressed in a timely manner. The Project Team conducted short interviews with staff about the "particulars" of the selected meter locations such as changes in the occupancy of the buildings, age of the meters, meter reading systems, etc. This provided a greater understanding of how meters were functioning, allowing priorities to be assigned to particular segments of the work. City personnel were not required to assist field technicians except where there were issues with gaining entry due to security or other concerns. In some cases, City personnel helped the field crews and their help was genuinely appreciated. HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 3.0 Phase Two Meter Test Results 3.1 Phase Two Small Meter Test Results A total of 39 small meters were selected for testing ranging from 5/8-inch to 1-inch. 9 5/8-inch meters, 14 3/4-inch meters, and 16 1-inch meters were tested. Appendix 7.1 shows details of the test results for the small meters. The test results were subjected to two weighted averages, one was the 15%-70%-15% as set by AWWA and the other weighted average was set at 5%-90%-5%. The percentages refer to the weighting given to the test results at low flow, intermediate flow and high flows. The highest weighting is given to intermediate flows since small meters usually do not operate at low or high flows for extended lengths of time under normal usage. AWWA recommends 15%-70%-15% as a weighted average to help figure usage patterns for residential meters. The 5%-90%-5% has been found to be more representative for some customers. The results using both weighted averages have been included with the results in Appendix 7.1. There was little variation between the two weighted averages, in both cases 15.4% of the meters failed. The overall accuracy of the small meters at the 15%-70%-15% average was 98.17% and 98.64% at 5%-90%-5%. Without detailed monitoring of the actual usage of each meter, it is impossible to know the actual weighted average of the meter. Given the similar results for both weighted averages, the AWWA recommended 15%-70%-15% weighted average will be used for the purposes of this report and as was done for the Phase One report. Figure 3-1 shows the small meter test results. Figure 3-1 Phase Two Small Meter Test Results 50% ° 40 l0 a~ d ai. ~ 3g% .~ ~ q ° ~ 2U l4 `~ r ° ~ 1 ~ ~° @ G ° Q ,o Meter Size 51$-IN 314-IN 1-IN Total Meters X0,478 594 504 Meters Tested g 14 1G Failed Testing 2 1 3 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing As expected, the percentage of meter failures was lower than the 33 percent observed in Phase One of the meter testing due to the lower age of the meters tested in Phase Two. However, there were still some failures that were notable given the age of the meters. Meters tend to fail with increased age and are often covered by manufacturer warrantee for 5 years. With increasing age, meter failures and inaccuracy will increase further. 3.2 Phase Two Large Meter Test Results Appendix 7.2 presents detailed summaries of the large meter testing results. Results of the Commercial/Industrial testing indicate there is loss of revenue occurring due to meters not performing to accepted standards. By the AWWWA standards, this is considered "Non-Revenue Water". Since water meters are the "cash registers" for the water system, the City of Dubuque is losing money with these meters as well. Figure 3-2 shows the large meter test results. Large meters make up a smaller portion of the meter population than the small meters, but convey much higher flow rates per meter and are potentially sources of significant revenue loss. A 4-inch meter will typically produce revenues of greater than $10,000 per year. Failure of a single large meter is equivalent in lost revenue to many small meter failures. The failure rate of the meters tested for Phase Two was lower than the Phase One meter tests. However, the failure rate was higher than expected given the low age of the meters. Of the 11 large meters that failed, 9 were less than five years old and 2 were eight years old. Table 3-1 shows the large meter tested accuracy by age. Figure 3-2 rnase i wo gar a meter i est Kesu~ts 5Q% c 44% in. ai ~ 31)% .~ ~ 20% f- a~ 10% ~ 0% Meter Size 1-112-IN 2-IN 3-IN 4-IN 6-IN Total Meters 182 238 63 35 10 Meters Tested 28 29 35 18 3 Failed Testing 4 1 3 3 0 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing g Table 3-1 Phase Two Larae Meter Tested Accuracy by Age 1.5-IN 2-IN 3-IN 4-IN 6-IN Meter Number Number Number Number Number Age, Tested/Average Tested/Average Tested/Average Tested/Average Tested/Average Years Accurac Accurac '' Accurac Accurac Accurac 0-5 28 103.9%* 29 99.5% 20 96.3% 8 99.8% 1 100.2% 5-10 N/A N/A NIA N/A 12 99.1 % 7 91.1 % 2 99.7% 10-15 N!A N/A N/A N!A N!A N/A 2 99.5% N/A N/A 15-20 N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A 20+ N!A N/A N/A N/A 3 99.1 % 1 92% N/A N/A * Two meters failed extremely high outside the flow range, increasing the average accuracy value 3.2.2 Displacement Meters Tested Selected 1-1/2-inch and 2-inch displacement meters were tested by the Project Team. The test results indicate that 14% of the 1-1/2-inch and 3.4% of the 2-inch meters failed testing. Relatively few new meters failed testing and meter repair and/or retrofit if cost effective may be an option for meters less than five years old instead of replacement. 3.2.3 Compound Meters Tested Compound meters are designed to operate over a wide range of flow rates. Typical consumption recorded by compounds should indicate 30-40% of usage on the low side, and 60-70% on the high side. 32 3-inch, 15 4-inch and 1 6-inch compound meters were tested. Based on the evaluations conducted by the Project Team, the compound meters appear to be properly sized for the accounts that were visited. 6% of 3-inch, 13% of 4-inch and 0% of the 6-inch compound meters failed testing. Given the size and age of these meters, the failure rate is higher than expected among the 4-inch meters. 3.2.4 Turbine Meters Tested Three 3-inch, three 4-inch, and two 6-inch turbine meters were tested. These meters appear to be large revenue generators for the City. Most are installed in settings where water usage is fairly consistent. The Project Team tested for "start" flows of the turbine meters. This allowed the team to observe wear patterns for each meter. If the "start" flow was close to the minimum flow and the minimum flow was testing "slow", this indicated the probability of the meter registering "high" at the high flow. This is due to the mechanics of the meter. Relatively few new meters failed testing and meter repair and/or retrofit if cost effective may be an option for meters less than five years old instead of replacement. 4.0 Summary of Phase One and Phase Two Results The results from the Phase One and Phase Two meter testing were combined to show a broader indication of meter performance. The meters tested for Phase One represent a wide cross section of meter sizes and ages, while the majority of the meters tested for Phase Two are less than five years old. The combined Phase One and Two results are therefore more heavily weighted towards newer meters. HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Table 4-1 shows the combined results of the small meter tests ranging from 5/8-inch to 1-inch. A large number of 5/8-inch meters failed testing. Table 4-1 Combined Phase One and Two Small Meter Results 5Q°! ° as " 40% d ti ~ 30 % .~ H 28% H L 1U% ~ °~ 4 Meter Size 518-IN S!4-IN 1-IN Total Meters 20,478 594 504 Meters Tested 49 34 26 Failed Testing 22 4 5 Table 4-2 shows the combined results of the large meter tests ranging from 1-1/2-inch to 8-inch. A single large meter conveys a much higher volume of water and associated revenue than many small meters the acceptable failure rate is less than for small meters. Replacement is recommended for the majority of the large meters. The 4-inch meters are of particular concern given the high failure rates for both old and new meters and volume of water conveyed. Some of the large meters known to be in acceptable condition would not necessarily need to be replaced, and could be retrofitted to work with the fixed radio system. HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ p Table 4-2 ~Ompinea rnase vne ana ~wv Barge me~er r~esu~w 5a°~° i 4Q 8,/0 G1 ~ 30°,0 .~ ~ 20% t- L d i.d ~ 10% 0 °Jo Meter Size 1-112-IN Total Meters 192 Meters Tested 74 Failed Testing 20 5.0 Revenue Analysis A revenue analysis has been developed to estimate the revenue lost due to inaccurate water meters. The analysis is based on meter size and consumption information provided by the City. Meter age was not considered for the revenue analysis since consumption information was not available based on meter age. Meter age can be considered in evaluating revenue in terms of availability of parts to repair meters. As meters age, accuracy tends to decrease leading to higher lost revenue. Table 5-1 shows meter accuracy by age range. Table 5-1 Combined Phase One and Two Meter Accurac by Age Meter Age, Years Percent of City Meter Po ulation Average Percent Accurac 0-5 19.1 % 99.0% 5-10 15.4% 95.2% 10-15 14.0% 96.7% 15-20 8.0% 90.6% 20-25 1.8% 96.2% 25+ ~~~ 41.7% 93.1 (t) Ma~onty are resiaennat meters mstauea prior to me m~a iyavs HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 11 2-IN 3-IN 4-IN 6-IN 8-IN 238 64 35 10 3 56 64 34 8 1 14 14 12 1 0 Figure 5-1 shows the tested meter accuracy, number of total meters and percent of total consumption by meter size for the meters tested in Phases One and Two. The shaded area represents the range of acceptable accuracy specified by AWWA. The range of acceptable accuracy varies by meter size with values outside of the shaded area considered to fail testing. Figure 5-1 105% ~, 100% U lG L u Q = 95°1° v L 90% 85% Meter Size 518-IN Number of Total 20,478 Meters Percent of 49.8% Consumption 314-IN 1-IN 1-112-IN 2-IN 3-IN 4-IN 6-IN 8-IN 594 504 192 238 63 35 10 3 2.4% 4.6% 3.5°l0 11.8% 10.1 % 8.2% 3.1 % 6.5% -~TestedAccuracy -~---.- AWWA Acceptable Accuracy Range Total water and wastewater revenue for fiscal year 2008 was approximately $8,987,278. A 9% increase is projected for fiscal year 2009 resulting in total revenue of $9,796,133. Analysis of the Phase One and Two meter testing showed that approximately 5.4% of total water consumption was not recorded due to meter inaccuracy, resulting in a projected loss in revenue of approximately $530,000 for fiscal year 2009. The Phase Two meter tests focused on meters less than 5 years old. Given the large number of older meters in the City as shown in Table 5-1, it is likely that the lost revenue figure is somewhat higher than 5.4%. Based on the Phase One meter testing that randomly selected from a wider range of meter ages, approximately 6.9% or $676,000 in lost revenue was projected. The lost revenue figure will be compounded over time as existing meter accuracy worsens and water rates increase. vvn~un~caa r na~c ynC a11V 1 YYV 111C~CI rC14Clfi l1GGu .ai---~1---f---~ r 1 ~----~---~----3---~^' ~---fi-- -~---^ HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~ p Table 5-2 Combined Phase One and Two Estimate of Meter Inaccuracies Meter Size Total Consumption, 100 cubic feet Percent of Consum tion Percent Inaccurate Volume of Consumption NOT Recorded, 100 cubic feet 5/8-IN 1,271,365 49.80% 7.50% 95,352 3/4-IN 60,963 2.39% 5.70% 3,475 1-IN 116,217 4.55% 2.00% 2,324 1-1l2-IN 88,309 3.46% 1.80% 1,590 2-IN 299,952 11.75% 3.40% 10,198 3-IN 258,782 10.14% 3.60% 9,316 4-IN 210,450 8.24% 6.40% 13,469 6-IN 79,776 3.13% 1.60% 1,276 8-IN 166,940 6.54% 0.60% 1,002 Total 2, 552,754 100% 138, 000 Total (as % of tota l production) 5.4% Projected Fiscal Year 2009 Water and Wastewater Revenue $9,796,000 Projected Fiscal Year 2009 Revenue Lost to Meter Inaccuracy $530,000 6.0 Recommendations The 2007 Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation considered multiple options for a new meter system. Based on the recommendations of the 2007 Meter Plan and System Evaluation and the results of the recently completed Water Meter Review and Testing, the following recommendations constitute the preferred strategic plan. Meter Reading Technology: Fixed Radio. After preliminary consideration of many meter technologies and detailed consideration of several potential meter options, the automatic meter reading (AMR) alternative of a fixed radio network was identified as the best option for implementation by the City. A fixed radio network allows remote reading of water meters, eliminating the need for meter reading labor for monthly billing readings. It is recommended that specific meter brands and options be re-evaluated once bids are solicited and costs are updated. Meter Replacement, Repair or Upgrade. o Small meters (5/8-inch to 1-inch). It is recommended that all meters 5/8-inch to f- inch be replaced. Retrofit is not recommended for smaller meters due to the low marginal cost of meter replacement compared to the cost of meter retrofit. In addition, if all small meters are replaced, the system would be standardized around one type of meter with similar age that reduces inventory, and improves scheduling of future replacement. o Large meters (1-1/2-inch to 8-inch). It is recommended that all meters over five years old be replaced or repaired if cost effective and retrofitted to work with a fixed radio HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 13 system. It is recommended that meters less than five years old be evaluated for the potential for retrofit to work a fixed radio system. • Deployment Time Period: Short (Contractor Installed). A short time period is recommended for deployment of new meters and meter reading technology. With contractor installation, City-wide meter replacement could occur within two years. The deployment period would likely increase to approximately ten years if the City were to deploy new equipment with existing City staff. • Deployment Strategy: Opportunistic and Geographical. The recommended meter deployment approach is a combination of opportunistic and geographical strategies. Early opportunistic deployment will allow the City to first replace large meters with known accuracy problems and significant loss of revenue followed by geographical replacement which is most efficient when working with Aquila for the meter system replacement. • Meter Maintenance/Management: o Before Meter Replacement: Contractor-Managed Meter Testing: This report details the results of the water meter review and testing program. The results of the testing helps the development of acost-effective replacement schedule for water meters and provides recommendations for the correction of the problems located. o During Meter Replacement: City-Managed: It is recommended that the City establish a new meter testing protocol. A statistical sampling of one-half to one percent of all new meters would establish base-line data and confirm accuracy. This phase of meter management would be managed by the City, but the actual meter testing would conducted by the contractor as part of the meter replacement program. o After Meter Replacement: City-Managed: The most important aspect of a water meter plan is the long-term management of the meters to ensure reliability and accuracy. It is recommended that the City develop a routine testing program to track trends in accuracy and maintenance. It is likely that a meter testing program would require some additional number of staff depending on the meter technology selected, which will influence the number of required field staff to an extent. Testing and maintenance is especially important for larger meters since relatively little labor can save significant loss in revenue. Regular testing of compound and turbine meters 3- inches and above and less frequent testing of smaller meters is recommended. 6.1 Implementation Considerations -Next Steps The following are key steps that will aid in implementation of the recommendations outlined above. These next steps will require considerable effort by the City and assistance by an experienced consultant is advised. Based on successful meter replacement projects, a draft consultant procurement/implementation project approach can be found in Appendix 7.3. • Site Visits: Visit other utilities to observe their experiences with water meter replacement programs and meter reading technology to better understand how these systems function, what is involved in a successful deployment, how the utilities are coping with integrating the new technology into day-to-day operations. Several regional utilities identified during the Water Meter System Evaluation have recently implemented new meter systems. • Meter System Procurement: Based on the Water Meter System Evaluation, Phase 1 & 2 Meter Testing and Review reports, site visits, current circumstances, operating environment, and staffing and resources, the City should define procurement issues and strategies. Once procurement requirements are defines, develop RFPBid specifications for water meter replacement. HDR Engineefing, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 14 • Solicit Responses from Qualified Vendors: Advertise RFPBid, along with conducting a mandatory pre-proposal meeting summarizing the City's objectives and requirements. • Vendor Evaluation and Selection: The procurement process involves making a defensible selection among qualified proposals using weighted multiple criteria to select a short list. • Re-evaluate Return on Investment: Once vendor RFPBids are received for water meter replacement, the information should be evaluated using the tools such as the cost model to evaluate the total life-cycle cost associated with each proposal to facilitate the City's final selection. • Contract Negotiation: Contracts for metering systems should be fair and equitable for all parties involved. Most of the performance requirements have been defined in the RFPBid specifications and the vendor's response. Contract negotiations usually focus on installation protocols and performance requirements. • Start-up Implementation and Administration: Proper project start-up is required for a timely and orderly installation of meters and meter-reading equipment, including adoption of new business processes to capture the benefits of any technology, and assure that the vendor and equipment are performing as stipulated in the contract. Once start-up is completed and accepted by the City, full implementation can begin. The 2007 Water Meter Plan and System Evaluation recommended installing a fixed radio network meter system as the lowest cost alternative. A fixed radio network allows remote reading of water meters, eliminating the need for labor intensive manual meter reading. From the 2007 Water Meter System Evaluation cost model, the 20 year present value (2009 dollars) capital cost of a fixed radio network water meter system will be approximately $6,850,000 and includes the cost of new water meters, radio equipment, computers and other hardware. Based on the combined Phase One and Phase Two current lost revenue and the estimated 2007 cost updated to 2009 dollars for a new fixed network meter system, the payback period would be approximately twelve years. The meters tested for Phase One represent a wide cross section of meter sizes and ages, while the majority of meters tested for Phase Two are less than five years old. The combined Phase One and Phase Two results are more heavily weighted towards meters less than five years old and may under-report the overall failure and accuracy rates since meter failures and inaccuracy tends to increase with meter age. Based on the Phase One meter testing results, the payback period would be approximately nine years. Table 6-1 shows the preliminary payback period for the fixed radio network meter replacement program. The lost revenue figure will be compounded over time as existing meter accuracy decreases and water rates increase. Table 6-1 Revenue Recovery for Fiscal Year 2009 Rates Fixed Radio Network Meter System, Years to Pa back at Given Inaccurac 20 Year Present Value {2009 Dollars) Capital Cost 5% 5.4% 6.9% 10% $6,850,000 14 12.9 10 7 The fixed radio system requires fewer employees for meter reading and results in lower operating and total costs than the existing system contracting with Aquila to read the meters. The fixed radio system alternative assumes City staffwill be responsible for the radio network, billing and will continue to perform routine meter maintenance and replacement as is currently done. There is not expected to be any change in City staff levels from the current system to the fixed radio network system. However, the cost of contracting with Aquila will be saved. Currently, the annual cost for HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 15 Aquila is about $142,000 and is expected to increase approximately 3% per year due to anticipated inflation. A limited number of the City's newer meters in good working condition could be retrofitted to work with a fixed radio meter system. Retrofit is not recommended for smaller meters due to the low marginal cost of meter replacement compared to the cost of meter retrofit. In addition, if all small meters are replaced, the system would be standardized around one type of meter with similar age that reduces inventory, and improves scheduling of future replacement. Retrofit and repair could be beneficial for some large meters, although further evaluation will be required to determine if retrofitting is cost effective. In addition to direct cost savings, there are many operational and non-direct financial benefits of moving to a fixed radio network meter system compared to the existing meter system. Fixed radio network meters improve customer service and staff efficiency by allowing real-time meter reading. Water meter remote registers on the side of buildings will be removed and problems with meter accessibility and the need to enter a home or business for meter reading will be eliminated. The large amount of data that can be easily and remotely collected with a fixed radio network system will allow City staff to efficiently develop water system hydraulic models, track water consumption trends and plan for future water system requirements. Parts and repairs for some of the older existing water meters are becoming more difficult and new meters will allow for easier meter repair work. The high number of meters out of specification, annual lost revenue, and other benefits support implementing a meter change-out program. Based on a meter asset life of twenty years and a payback period of approximately ten years, there is a positive payback period and a meter replacement program is recommended. HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing ~g 7.0 Appendices 7.1 Small Meter Test Results Table 7-1 Phase Two Small Meter Test Summary N N Z ~ d C ~j Q O ~ ~ ~ U Q N ~ ~ X U Q X _ ~~ > N a~ N O ~ O w O~ 5/8" 37093958 .25 96.8 2 98.8 15 100.3 P 2006 5/8" 37834687 .25 98.3 2 101.4 15 100.6 P 2003 5/8" 46974712 .25 51 2 75 15 74.6 F 1993 5!8" 36821144 .25 98.9 2 101.3 15 100.5 P 2004 518" 69722017 .25 98.8 2 101.1 15 100.5 P 2008 5!8" 37026647 .25 87.8 2 97.7 15 98.4 F 2003 5!8" 37094429 .25 97.5 2 101 15 100.1 P 2003 5/8" 36967876 .25 95 2 100.2 15 100.7 P 2006 518" 40262726 .25 98.4 2 101.3 15 100.2 P 2006 3/4" 49219125 .5 95.1 3 100.1 25 99.7 P 2003 3/4" 33479035 .5 100.1 3 100.9 25 100.4 P N/A 3/4" 33297986 .5 96 3 98.5 25 97.5 F 2006 3/4" 33592089 .5 98.6 3 101 25 100.7 P 2003 3!4" 57973349 .5 95 3 100.1 25 100.6 P 2003 3/4" 38046842 .5 100.9 3 101 25 100.8 P 2003 314" 19317243 .5 100.5 3 101.1 25 99.7 P 2003 314" 38046669 .5 98 3 98.5 25 99.2 P 2002 3/4" 22841259 .5 98.2 3 101 25 100.6 P 2006 3/4" 52047419 .5 98.2 3 100.1 25 100.5 P 2004 3!4" 36406728 .5 96 3 101 25 99.8 P 2002 3!4" 26897051 .5 100.2 3 101.4 25 100.6 P 2005 314" 38046712 .5 97.9 3 101.5 25 101.2 P 2006 3!4" 45222880 .5 99.1 3 101 25 100.7 P 2003 1" 52200644 .75 98.7 4 101.3 40 100.9 P 2005 1" 38043765 .75 100.1 4 101.5 40 100.7 P 2005 1" 38428151 .75 74.4 4 82 40 85 F 2003 1" 34888300 .75 98.8 4 100.1 40 100.6 P 2002 1" 57973366 .75 99 4 101 40 100.9 P 2002 1" 36447719 .75 99.9 4 100.3 40 101.2 P 2002 1" 29067693 .75 98.9 4 100.9 40 100.9 P 2006 1" 54680790 .75 100.3 4 101.5 40 100.6 P N/A 1" 24464016 .75 99.9 4 101.1 40 100.9 P 2006 1" 30854671 .75 0 4 77.9 40 99.1 F 2006 1" 26600861 .75 99.7 4 100.6 40 100.7 P 2004 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Table 7-2 Phase Two Small Meter Test Summary (Continued) ,~ ~ V a ~ ~~ w C ~ N fA ? ~ ~ C a C ~ L c~ X a X > to m ~ ~ ~ N c +~.. f6 ~ ~ p N a ~ rA = ~ ~ c } 1" 57468769 .75 99 4 100.9 40 100.9 P 2003 1" 57973375 .75 99 4 101.5 40 100.1 P 2002 1" 57468768 .75 93.1 4 97.9 40 100.6 F 2002 1" 38043656 .75 99.3 4 101.4 40 100.7 P 2002 1" 44376500 .75 99.8 4 101.5 40 101.2 P 2003 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Table 7-3 Phase Two Small Meter 15%-70%-15% Weighted Results Minimum Flow Intermediate Flow Maximum Flow Overall Results Accuracy Limits (95%- 101%) Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5%) Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5%) Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5%) ~ N Z g a V ~ ¢ N rn~ 'm ~ o R ~ ~ C V a C N rn~ 'm ~ c co ~ a V' m ~ V ~ Q A ~ ~ L N rn~ 'm ~ o ~ ~ ~ 7 ~ Q i O - ~ V. N ~ a ~ 4 w C N O ~'m w N C 5/8" 37093958 .25 96.8 15 2 98.8 70 15 100.3 15 98.725 P 2006 518" 37834687 .25 98.3 15 2 101.4 70 15 100.6 15 100.815 P 2003 5/8" 46974712 .25 51 15 2 75 70 15 74.6 15 71.34 F 1993 5/8" 36821144 .25 98.9 15 2 101.3 70 15 100.5 15 100.82 P 2004 5/8" 69722017 .25 98.8 15 2 101.1 70 15 100.5 15 100.665 P 2008 5/8" 37026647 .25 87.8 15 2 97.7 70 15 98.4 15 96.32 F 2003 5/8" 37094429 .25 97.5 15 2 101 70 15 100.1 15 100.34 P 2003 5!8" 36967876 .25 95 15 2 100.2 70 15 100.7 15 99.495 P 2006 518" 40262726 .25 98.4 15 2 101.3 70 15 100.2 15 100.7 P 2006 3/4" 49219125 .5 95.1 15 3 100.1 70 25 99.7 15 99.29 P 2003 3/4" 33479035 .5 100.1 15 3 100.9 70 25 100.4 15 100.705 P N/A 3/4" 33297986 .5 96 15 3 98.5 70 25 97.5 15 97.975 F 2006 314" 33592089 .5 98.6 15 3 101 70 25 100.7 15 100.595 P 2003 3/4" 57973349 .5 95 15 3 100.1 70 25 100.6 15 99.41 P 2003 3/4" 38046842 .5 100.9 15 3 101 70 25 100.8 15 100.955 P 2003 3/4" 19317243 .5 100.5 15 3 101.1 70 25 99.7 15 100.8 P 2003 3/4" 38046669 .5 98 15 3 98.5 70 25 99.2 15 98.53 P 2002 3/4" 22841259 .5 98.2 15 3 101 70 25 100.6 15 100.52 P 2006 314" 52047419 .5 98.2 15 3 100.1 70 25 100.5 15 99.875 P 2004 314" 36406728 .5 96 15 3 101 70 25 99.8 15 100.07 P 2002 3/4" 26897051 .5 100.2 15 3 101.4 70 25 100.6 15 101.1 P 2005 3/4" 38046712 .5 97.9 15 3 101.5 70 25 101.2 15 100.915 P 2006 314" 45222880 .5 99.1 15 3 101 70 25 100.7 15 100.67 P 2003 1" 52200644 .75 98.7 15 4 101.3 70 40 100.9 15 100.85 P 2005 1" 38043765 .75 100.1 15 4 101.5 70 40 100.7 15 101.17 P 2005 1" 38428151 .75 74.4 15 4 82 70 40 85 15 81.31 F 2003 1" 34888300 .75 98.8 15 4 100.1 70 40 100.6 15 99.98 P 2002 1" 57973366 .75 99 15 4 101 70 40 100.9 15 100.685 P 2002 1" 36447719 .75 99.9 15 4 100.3 70 40 101.2 15 100.375 P 2002 1" 29067693 .75 98.9 15 4 100.9 70 40 100.9 15 100.6 P 2006 1" 54680790 .75 100.3 15 4 101.5 70 40 100.6 15 101.185 P N/A 1" 24464016 .75 99.9 15 4 101.1 70 40 100.9 15 100.89 P 2006 1" 30854671 .75 0 15 4 77.9 70 40 99.1 15 69.395 F 2006 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 19 Table 7-4 Phase Two Small Meter 15%-70%-15% Weighted Results (Continued) Minimum Flow Intermediate Flow Maximum Flow Overall Results Accuracy Limits (95%- 101%) (98.5%- 101.5% (98.5%- 101.5% (98.5%- 101.5°k °' N ? ~ ~ Vr ~ v C ~ ~ e :: r ~ 3 ~ o_ C7 c ci ~ Q ~ c -o p; ~ 3 ~ 0_ X ~ ~ v K ~ v w ~ 3 >. - v ~ l° > V OQ - - is I° ~- > M Oa _ c 4 ° ~ m d~ N }~ c 1" 26600861 .75 99.7 15 4 100.6 70 40 100.7 15 100.48 P 2004 1" 57468769 .75 99 15 4 100.9 70 40 100.9 15 100.615 P 2003 1" 57973375 .75 99 15 4 101.5 70 40 100.1 15 100.915 P 2002 1" 57468768 .75 93.1 15 4 97.9 70 40 100.6 15 97.585 F 2002 1" 38043656 .75 99.3 15 4 101.4 70 40 100.7 15 100.98 P 2002 1" 44376500 .75 99.8 15 4 101.5 70 40 101.2 15 101.2 P 2003 HDR Engineering, Int. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing y0 Table 7-5 Phase Twe Small Meter 5%-90%-5% Weighted Results Accuracy Limits (95%- 101% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5% Accuracy Limits (98.5%- 101.5°k a~ rn _ ' N a ~ ~ R ~ L ~ ~ ~ '' ~ ti ~ ~ yr N o N ? a a ~ ~ a ~ `° ~ a ~ a a ~ ~ 'w to ~ c t t °-~ y y 3 > `0 \ ~ ~ ~ t - ° :o f0 3 c c o ~ ~ 3 `m m > a i ~ 0 rn o > O O >- u7 ~ 5/8" ! 37093958 .25 ! 96.8 5 ! 2 98.8 90 ! 15 ' 100.3 5 98.775 P 2006 5/8" 37834687 .25 98.3 5 2 101.4 90 ', 15 100.6 5 101.205 P 2003 5/8" 46974712 ' .25 51 5 2 75 90 15 74.6 5 73.78 F 1993 5/8" 36821144 .25 98.9 5 2 101.3 90 15 100.5 5 101.14 P 2004 518" 69722017 .25 98.8 5 2 101.1 90 15 100.5 5 100.955 P 2008 5/8" 37026647 .25 87.8 5 2 97.7 90 15 98.4 5 97.24 F 2003 5/8" 37094429 .25 97.5 5 2 101 90 15 100.1 5 100.78 P 2003 5/8" 36967876 .25 95 5 2 100.2 90 15 100.7 5 99.965 P 2006 518" 40262726 .25 98.4 5 2 101.3 90 15 100.2 5 101.1 P 2006 3!4" 49219125 .5 95.1 5 3 100.1 90 25 99.7 5 99.83 P 2003 3/4" 33479035 .5 100.1 5 3 100.9 90 25 100.4 5 100.835 P N/A 3!4" 33297986 .5 96 5 3 98.5 90 25 97.5 5 98.325 F 2006 3/4" 33592089 .5 98.6 5 3 101 90 25 100.7 5 100.865 P 2003 314" 57973349 .5 95 5 3 100.1 90 25 100.6 5 99.87 P 2003 314" 38046842 .5 100.9 5 3 101 90 25 100.8 5 100.985 P 2003 3/4" 19317243 .5 100.5 5 3 101.1 90 25 99.7 5 101 P 2003 3/4" 38046669 .5 98 5 3 98.5 90 25 99.2 5 98.51 P 2002 3/4" 22841259 .5 98.2 5 3 101 90 25 100.6 5 100.84 P 2006 3/4" 52047419 .5 98.2 5 3 100.1 90 25 100.5 5 100.025 P 2004 314" 36406728 .5 96 5 3 101 90 25 99.8 5 100.69 P 2002 3/4" 26897051 .5 100.2 5 3 101.4 90 25 100.6 5 101.3 P 2005 3/4" 38046712 .5 97.9 5 3 101.5 90 25 101.2 5 101.305 P 2006 3/4" 45222880 .5 99.1 5 3 101 90 25 100.7 5 100.89 P 2003 1" 52200644 .75 98.7 5 4 101.3 90 40 100.9 5 101.15 P 2005 1" 38043765 .75 100.1 5 4 101.5 90 40 100.7 5 101.39 P 2005 1" 38428151 .75 74.4 5 4 82 90 40 85 5 81.77 F 2003 1" 34888300 .75 98.8 5 4 100.1 90 40 100.6 5 100.06 P 2002 1" 57973366 .75 99 5 4 101 90 40 100.9 5 100.895 P 2002 1" 36447719 .75 99.9 5 4 100.3 90 40 101.2 5 100.325 P 2002 1" 29067693 .75 98.9 5 4 100.9 90 40 100.9 5 100.8 P 2006 1" 54680790 .75 100.3 5 4 101.5 90 40 100.6 5 101.395 P N/A 1" 24464016 .75 99.9 5 4 101.1 90 40 100.9 5 101.03 P 2006 1" 30854671 .75 0 5 4 77.9 90 40 99.1 5 75.065 F 2006 HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Table 7-6 Phase Two Small Meter 5%-90%-5% Weiahted Results (Continued) Accuracy Accuracy Accuracy Accuracy Limits Limits Limits Limits (95%- (98.5%- (98.5%- (98.5%- 101°k 101.5% 101.5% 101.5%) °> f 0 rn r p ~. • ` ~ ` ~ ~ ~ L o ~~ Z ~ a (~ ~ Q rn rn d r ~ ` ° v V ni R i ° ~ N . d Q ~ i ~ ~ U Q ~ Q a fC ~ fn (~ C L ~ d ~ > X N K t0 t ~ N '~ C C o ~ ~ ~ '~ ~ ~ fO C 3 rn 3 ~ ~ ~ 0 o O O un ~ 1" 26600861 .75 99.7 5 4 100.6 90 40 100.7 5 100.56 P 2004 1" 57468769 .75 99 5 4 100.9 90 40 100.9 5 100.805 P 2003 1" 57973375 .75 99 5 4 101.5 90 40 100.1 5 101.305 P 2002 1" 57468768 .75 93.1 5 4 97.9 90 40 100.6 5 97.795 F 2002 1" 38043656 .75 99.3 5 4 101.4 90 40 100.7 5 101.26 P 2002 1" 44376500 .75 99.8 5 4 101.5 90 40 101.2 5 101.4 P 2003 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 7.2 Large Meter Test Results Table 7-7 Phacra Twn 1 _1 /2-inch Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Flow Year Size Mf T e : S/N GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Installed 1.5" Sensus Displacement 4338675 1.5 160 8 170 15 _. 170 F 2005 1.5" Invensys Displacement 55791771 1.5 ' 99.5 8 100.5 15 101 P 2005 1.5" Invensys Displacement 44502590 1.5 ` 99 8 99.5 15 99 P 2003 1.5" Invensys Displacement 30951632 1.5 99 8 101 15 99.9 P 2003 1.5" Invensys Displacement 26021233 2.5 99.5 8 99.5 15 100.5 P 2005 1.5" Sensus Displacement 4338674 1.5 160 8 170 15 170 F 2005 1.5" Sensus Displacement 28671921 1.5 80 8 80 15 80 F 2003 1.5" Sensus Displacement 43254328 1.5 + 90 8 96 15 98.5 F 2004 1.5 Invensys Displacement 42214633 1.5 ', 100.5 8 98.7 15 99.3 P 2003 1.5" Sensus Displacement 43254348 1.5 ' 100.5 8 99 15 101 P 2006 1.5" Sensus Displacement 43767751 1.5 ', 99.5 8 101.2 15 101.1 P 2004 1.5" Sensus Displacement 55962401 1.5 98.7 8 101.1 20 100.4 P 2006 1.5" Invensys Displacement 43767757 1.5 100.2 8 100.9 20 101 P 2005 1.5" Sensus Displacement 40350066 1.5 98.9 8 100.3 50 100.3 P 2006 1.5" Invensys Displacement 43254344 1.5 100.2 8 101.3 15 101.1 P 2005 1.5" Invensys Displacement 54810262 1.5 100.2 8 99.6 15 101.1 P 2004 1.5" Sensus Displacement 43254350 1.5 99 8 101 15 101 P 2003 1.5" Invensys Displacement 61244509 1.5 100.5 8 100.2 15 100.8 P 2006 1.5" Sensus Displacement 43254349 1.5 96.5 8 99.5 15 99 P 2006 1.5" Invensys Displacement 31069279 1.5 100.5 8 100.2 15 101 P 2006 1.5" Invensys Displacement 43254367 1.5 98.5 8 98.8 20 99 P 2005 1.5" Invensys Displacement 21183975 1.5 99.5 8 99.5 20 99.9 P 2004 1.5" Sensus Displacement 32591328 1.5 100.2 8 100.5 15 100.2 P 2004 1.5" Sensus Displacement 36620111 1.5 100.2 8 101.1 15 101.3 P 2006 1.5" Invensys Displacement 23548946 1.5 99.5 8 99.8 15 100.8 P 2004 1.5" Sensus Displacement 43254341 1.5 99.2 8 100.8 15 101 P 2005 1.5" Invensys Displacement 38287501 1.5 98 8 101.2 15 100.5 P 2003 1.5" Invens s Dis lacement 38287502 1.5 .100.5 8 99.7 15 100.6 P 2005 HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing Table 7-8 Phase Two 2-inch Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Flow Year Size Mf . T e S/N G PM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Installed 2" Invensys Displacement 61152283 2 98.8 15 ', 99.6 20 99.9 P 2003 2" Invensys Displacement 33509383 2 47.4 15 94.5 20 93.5 F 2005 2" Sensus Displacement 47211933 2 98 8 101 15 101 P 2003 2" Invensys Displacement 19706905 2 96.8 15 100.2 20 100.4 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 41465505 2 100.5 15 101 20 101.5 P 2005 2" Sensus Displacement 43806187 2 100.5 15 100.5 20 101 P 2004 2" Invensys Displacement 48811271 2 98.9 15 100.5 20 101 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 52867081 2 100.5 15 100.9 20 101 P 2005 2" Invensys Displacement 42269321 2 99 15 100.8 20 100.5 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 39016539 2 99 15 101 20 99.5 P 2003 2" Invensys Displacement 40163884 2 100.2 15 101.1 20 100.9 P 2004 2" Invensys. Displacement 42397625 2 99 15 100.7 20 101 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 45656545 2 99 15 100 20 101 P 2003 2" Invensys Displacement 52867091 2 99.5 15 100.3 20 99.9 P 2004 2" Invensys Displacement 42290920 2 98.9 15 100.1 20 101.1 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 42511964 2 99.6 15 100.4 20 100.2 P 2003 2" Invensys Displacement 32410556 2 100.2 15 99.5 20 100.5 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 43806200 2 99.5 15 100.2 25 101.2 P 2004 2" Invensys Displacement 40182622 2 98.6 15 101.1 25 100.5 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 42929509 2 101 15 100.9 25 101 P 2003 2" Invensys Displacement 40334192 2 99.2 15 99.9 20 100.2 P 2008 2" Sensus Displacement 45881443 2 100.2 15 101.3 20 100.5 P 2003 2" Sensus Displacement 45881442 2 100.5 15 100.5 20 101.1 P 2004 2" Invensys Displacement 39016719 2 100.2 15 101.3 20 101.3 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 35720482 2 99.9 15 100.4 20 101.1 P 2006 2" Invensys Displacement 42371603 2 99 15 101.5 20 101.5 P 2004 2" Sensus Displacement 46127559 2 99 15 101 20 101 P 2006 2" Invensys Displacement 38366821 2 100.1 15 101.1 20 101 P 2004 2" Invens s Dis lacement 64222185 2 99 15 101 20 101 P 2005 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 24 Table 7-9 Phase Twe 3-inch Turbine Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Start Flow Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Flow Year Size ' Mf . T S/N GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Installed 3" 'Sensus 'Turbo ' 60828090 3 ', 72.8 8 98.8 150 ' 101.1 170 101.3 P 2007 3" 'Sensus ' Turbo 1473185 4 97.5 8 99.6 150 97.4 300 96.2 F 2000 3" 'Sensus .Turbo 1447687 4 80 8 98.5 150 ' 100.1 300 99.3 P N/A Table 7-10 Phacp Twn 3_inch Cemneund Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 97%-103% 97%-103% not less than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% Low Flow Below Crossover Crossover Above Crossover Intermediate Hi h Flow Size Mf . S!N Status GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Year Installed 3" Sensus 1626689 P 1 99.5 5 100.3 15 93.5 25 99.7 75 101.1 150 100.5 2002 3" Sensus 63137335 P 1 99 5 100.9 14 92.5 25 97.9 75 101.9 150 102.5 2005 3" Sensus 1639846 P 1 98 5 100.5 15 95 25 99.7 75 101.5 150 102.1 2004 3" Sensus 1626682 P 1 100.5 5 100.5 15 92 25 101.3 75 102.5 150 102 2003 3" Sensus 01590608 P 1 99 5 101 15 90.5 25 98.5 25 102 150 102.2 2000 3" Sensus 1597364 P 1 98 5 99.5 15 92.3 25 97.3 75 101.4 150 100.7 2001 3" Sensus 66016905 P 1 98 5 101.5 15 97 25 99.5 75 101.7 150 101.2 2006 3" Sensus 1195889 F 1 0 5 0 15 101 25 103.8 75 107 150 109.2 2005 3" Sensus 1438175 P 1 100.8 5 101 15 96.3 25 97.3 75 101.9 150 100.5 1998 3" Sensus 60941655 P 1 98 5 100.3 15 92.5 25 99.1 75 101.7 150 102.1 2005 3" Sensus 1293303 P 1 100.5 5 100.5 15 95 25 98.7 75 100.8 150 101.8 1971 3" Sensus 60362660 P 1 99 5 100.3 15 93.5 25 99.7 75 102.3 150 102 2003 3" Sensus 60941657 P 1 99.5 5 100 15 92.5 25 99.9 75 100.6 150 99.8 2003 3" Sensus 1626681 P 1 99.5 5 101 15 95.3 25 101.2 75 101.7 150 102.7 2002 3" Sensus 66923802 P 1 99.5 5 100.5 15 93.5 25 99.9 75 102.1 150 102.9 2007 3" Sensus 06776566 P 1 100.5 5 101 15 94.3 25 97.6 75 102.4 150 102.2 2007 3" Sensus 1571554 P 1 99 5 100.5 15 91.5 25 98.5 75 101.5 150 100.3 1999 3" Rockwell 1227683 P 1 98.5 5 99 15 94.9 25 98.7 75 102.1 150 102.7 1986 3" Rockwell 1294132 P 1 99 5 100.2 15 95 25 101 75 101.8 150 102.2 1971 3" Sensus 1290266 P 1 99.9 5 100.5 15 95 25 97.4 75 101.4 150 101.6 2004 3" Sensus 1145303 P 1 99.8 5 101.5 15 94.6 25 98.7 75 101.5 150 100.8 1998 3" Sensus 1626684 P 1 98.4 5 100.8 15 94.1 25 97.4 75 101.9 150 102.1 2002 3" Sensus 1228484 P 1 101 5 101 14 92.5 25 97.8 75 102.1 150 102.5 2007 3" Invens s 64032894 P 1 100.4 5 100.5 15 95.2 25 98.4 75 101.9 150 101.1 2007 3" Sensus 1571770 P 1 100.4 5 101 15 93.5 25 98.7 75 101.8 150 102.1 2000 3" Sensus 67653879 P 1 98.7 5 99.8 15 97.6 25 97.6 75 101.2 150 101.5 2007 3" Sensus 67845773 P 1 98 5 99.5 14 97.4 25 99.9 75 101.8 150 101.2 2008 3" Invens s 64032893 P 1 99.2 5 100.3 15 96 25 99.9 75 101.4 150 100.7 2006 3" Sensus 1201011 P 1 99 5 100.3 15 95 25 100.6 75 101.5 150 100.6 2006 3" Rockwell 1228746 P 1 100.5 5 101 16 97 25 97.7 75 99.1 150 99 1998 3" Sensus 62249169 F 1 0 5 0 15 92 25 98.7 75 102 150 101.8 2005 3" Sensus 1291098 P 1 99.4 5 100.8 14 97.5 25 100.6 75 101.7 150 101.2 2002 HDR Engineefing, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 25 Table 7-11 Phase Two 4-inch Turbine Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 95-101.5 98.5-101.5 98.5-101.5 Start Flow Low Flow Inter. Flow Hi h Flow Year Size Mf . T e S/N GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Status Installed 4" Sensus Turbo ' 1411332 8 70 15 99 150 100.5 300 ' 101 P 1971 4" Sensus Turbo 67785593 7 87.5 15 105 150 102.9 300 102.2 F 2007 4" Sensus Turbo 1241999 8 75 15 99.6 150 101 300 101 P 1998 Table 7-12 Phase Two 4-inch Compound Meter Summary Accurac Limits 97%-103% 97%-103% not less than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% Low Ffow Below Crossover Crossover Above Crossover Interim. Hi h Flow Size Mf . S/N Status GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Year Installed a" senses 12asss5 Not Tested 1 ggg 4" Senses 1245060 P 1 99.5 5 98 20 95 30 101.2 100 100.4 200 101.9 1998 4" Senses 1626266 P 1 99 5 100.5 20 94.3 30 100.5 100 101 200 101 2002 4" Senses 1606867 P 1 98 5 101 20 95.3 30 98.5 100 100.4 200 99.6 2004 4" Senses 1606866 P 1 99 5 100 20 94.8 30 98.9 100 100.6 200 99.6 2000 4" Senses 01581700 F 1 0 5 0 20 0 30 75.8 100 101 200 99.8 2000 4" Senses 1626265 P 1 99.5 5 100.5 21 97.3 30 101 100 102 200 101.1 2002 4" Senses 1455441 P 1 100 5 100.8 20 96.3 30 101 100 99.6 200 99.8 1996 4" Senses 63137288 P 1 100.8 5 100.5 20 97.3 30 101 100 100.4 200 101.8 2005 4" Senses 1626268 P 1 100.2 5 100.7 20 97.3 30 98.9 100 101.9 200 101.5 2003 4" Senses 61999821 P 1 99.9 5 100.5 19 96.3 30 98.8 100 100.6 200 99.6 2004 4" Senses 1248665 P 1 97.5 5 100.3 15 95.3 30 101.2 100 102.1 200 100.3 1998 4" Senses 62249174 P 1 98.5 5 100.5 21 97.8 30 101 100 101.9 200 102.1 2007 4" Senses 60055168 P 1 100.4 5 101 22 97 30 101.2 100 100.4 200 100.8 2003 4" Senses 1342728 F 1 99.5 5 99.6 19 96.8 30 101 100 101 200 102.7 2004 4" Rockwell 1247875 P 1 100.4 5 101 20 96.3 30 99.9 100 101.4 200 100.8 1998 HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 48 Table 7-13 Phase Two 6-inch Compound Meter Test Summary Accurac Limits 97%-103% 97%-103% not less than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% Low Flow Below Crossover Crossover Above Crossover Interm. Hi h Flow Size Mf SIN Status GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Year Installed 6" Sensus 6249176 P 1.5 99.9 5 100.3 25 97 35 101.2 150 101.8 300 101.1 2008 6" Herse 05193622 NOT TESTED ~ 972 Table 7-14 Phase Two 6-inch Fire Line Turbine Meter Test Summary not less Accurac Limits 97%-103% 97%-103% than 90% 97%-103% 97%-103% 97%-103% Below Above Low Flow Crossover Crossover Crossover Intermediate Hi h Flow Year Size Mf SIN ~ Status GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. GPM ACC. Installed 6"x2" Sensus ' 2001796 ', 4 101.5 25 101.9 65 90.2 100 ', 101.8 200 ' 102.1 300 100.7 NIA 6"x2" Sensus ' 16435550 4 100.2 25 102.5 65 92.6 100 98.9 200 102.7 300 101.4 2002 HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 27 7.3 Typical Consultant Draft Procurement/lmplementation Project Approach Project Approach Based on successful water meter replacement projects, the following proposed approach to assisting the City with procurement and initial implementation of an AMR system consists of three project phases: defining procurement requirements, performing procurement, and implementing of a start-up phase of AMR deployment before full implementation proceeds. Amore detailed description of these tasks is provided below. Task 1-Define Procurement Requirements Objective: Reaffirm current and future metering needs of the City, which will in turn inform a procurement strategy that best meets the City's requirements. From the residential metering plan and drawing on our significant experience, consultant will identify current and anticipated future meter reading needs. Working with City staff, the consultant will establish system requirements, including installation, support and training, warranties and maintenance. New or modified business processes and operating procedures resulting from implementing an AMR system will also be considered. The consultant will develop a set of technical requirements that would be incorporated into a Request for Proposals/Bid for a water meter system. These include system component characteristics and performance requirements, meter interfaces, communication infrastructure, system controller hardware and software, installation procedures, and interfaces to City's other systems, along with the required demonstration process to be performed by the short-listed vendors. The consultant will compile a list of system technical and operational requirements and desirable features, as well as installation provisions, and review and revise these with the City's internal meter system procurement team in a work session. Task 2 -Procurement Process Management Objective: Provide an orderly procurement process that leads to the selection of the best AMR system for the City, including execution of a fair and equitable contract with the most qualified vendor or vendors. Approach: The following subtasks will comprise Task 2: • Task 2.1 Develop procurement document • Task 2.2 Construction/Installation Management • Task 2.3 Solicit responses from qualified vendors • Task 2.4 Evaluate and select the most qualified vendor or vendors • Task 2.5 Negotiate and execute a fair and equitable contract The consultant will support the City throughout the procurement process, it is important to have the City be actively involved with the entire evaluation and selection process. To assure this HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 28 involvement, the consultant will work with the City Management to establish a Selection Committee. It is suggested that the Selection Committee be limited to no more than seven people, including Account Services & Billing, Meter Maintenance, Meter Readers, and Customer Service staff. During the evaluation and selection period the consultant will act as an advisor to the City, coordinating and facilitating the selection process. The consultant will work with the Selection Committee to expedite the selection process and to confirm that the process follows the City procurement requirements. Task 2.1 -Develop Procurement Document The consultant, working with the Selection Committee, will prepare technical and bidding specifications based on the requirements identified in Task 1. The bid specifications will ensure that the City's goals and objectives are achieved while providing flexibility to vendors to present the most advantageous technology. The bidding document will present meter and meter reading requirements, as well as the procurement rules and guidelines. This will include procurement instructions, project description, minimum qualifications, technical and business requirements of the vendor (or vendors), evaluation criteria and selection methodology, proposal forms, and project schedule. The consultant will also work with the City's Purchasing and Legal Departments in preparing the proposal document so that it conforms to City requirements. The consultant will provide the "technical" requirements of the bid package, namely the technical specifications, suggested implementation timeline, and a drab contract. The City will be responsible to compile this information into a bid package that will include all the standard forms and bid requirements such as insurance requirements, affirmative action, equal employment opportunity, etc. Task 2.2 - Construction/Installation Management Determine what assistance is required by the City during start-up implementation and management for full implementation. This scope of services should include at a minimum the following: • Control and Monitoring • Construction Schedules • Quality Management • Field Document Control • Construction Cost Control • Progress Payments • Safety/Security Programs • Training • Presentations and Reports • Monthly Invoices • Close-Out and Acceptance Services These services will be provided throughout the duration of the implementation process. Task 2.3 -Solicit Responses from Qualified Vendors The consultant will plan for and conduct aPre-proposal Conference. This will include preparing a summary of the City's objectives and requirements, scheduling and logistics for the Conference, and responding to any questions and data requests presented at the Conference. A$er the Conference, the consultant will continue to support the City in responding to questions and data requests. It is suggested that a master list of any requests be maintained in a database in order to ensure that all HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 29 responses are addressed and that all respondents have received the response. During the proposal phase the consultant will respond in writing to questions from prospective bidders. Task 2.4 -Evaluate and Select the Most Qualified Vendor(s) The consultant will assist with initial proposal review, creating a matrix that can be used as a checklist of submission requirements, and measurement of the respondent's ability to address meter and meter reading requirements. This matrix will allow the Selection Committee to rank the respondents in the major aspects of the proposal review, including submittal requirements, technical capability, knowledge of metering and AMR, water utility business acumen, and price. The consultant will prepare a technical memorandum summarizing the features and benefits included in the proposals, and recommend up to three firms that will be invited for vendor presentations. We will assist with respondent interviews for up to three selected vendors, including scheduling interviews, establishing interview guidelines, developing a presentation script, and moderating the process. The consultant will assist with reference checks of the highest ranked respondents. Reference checks should be thorough and comprehensive as it is through this process that the truly outstanding firms and systems are made apparent. The consultant will conduct due diligence on the selected vendors' financials, experience and qualifications. A list of questions will be developed and we will attempt to contact three current customers. If required, the consultant will arrange for site visits with selected references to confirm a respondent's capabilities through observation and open dialog with other companies and utilities using vendors' equipment. We will schedule and attend up to three site visits with the City staff of other utilities currently using the system. Finally, and perhaps most importantly, the consultant will assist with vendor demonstrations. For up to three short-listed vendors an AMR system demonstration will be performed in a selected area of the City. The results of the demonstration will be evaluated and be part of the final selection process. After the demonstrations, the consultant will prepare a technical memorandum to summarize the evaluation and selection process. While this summary will be drafted by the consultant, it is the Selection Committee that will rank the proposals and recommend a preferred vendor. Task 2.5 -Negotiate and Execute a Fair and Equitable Contract The consultant will provide advice and guidance to the City during its negotiations with the lead respondent. We will expedite negotiations in support of the implementation start date by developing a negotiation schedule, assisting with developing a draft contract, and acting as a liaison between the lead respondent and City. An important element of contract negotiation is fairness and equity. The consultant will work to protect the interest of the City, but will advise Dubuque when certain conditions and restrictions prove too onerous. A contract that fairly protects the interests of both parties provides the best environment for a lasting and beneficial relationship. The consultant will work with the parties to create a detailed statement of work (DSOW), which will be attached to the contract and serve as the "manual of practice" for the parties during the project deployment implementation. The DSOW covers meters and meter reading system installation and HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 30 testing procedures, project control and invoicing, communications and documentation between the vendor and the utility, etc. Upon successful contract negotiation, the consultant will assist the City in a presentation to City Council should one be required to gain final approval. Task 3 -Start-up Implementation and Administration Objective: To provide project start-up support for a timely and orderly installation of meters and meter-reading equipment, including adoption of new business processes to capture the benefits of AMR, and assure that the vendor and equipment are performing as stipulated in the contract. Once start-up is completed and accepted by the City full implementation can begin. Approach: The following subtasks will comprise Task 3: • Task 3.1 Manage initial program implementation • Task 3.2 Monitor vendor and equipment performance Task 3.1-Manage Initial Program Implementation The consultant will evaluate the vendor's implementation schedule, monitor implementation progress, and present regular reports to City management. Our overriding objective will be to support the City and vendor so that the AMR operational start date will be achieved as planned. Communication is very important during implementation. Both internal and external constituents need to be apprised of the implementation plan, and potential problems that could occur during implementation and startup. It is also important that the City have in place a response program in the event that the implementation does not proceed according to plan. The consultant will provide reports to the City Management on a regular basis identifying successes, as well as deficiencies. In its operational startup support role, the consultant will work to promote the new AMR, and minimize any negative impact that results from its implementation. Once start-up implementation has been accepted by the City, full implementation will begin with the selected contract manager assuming full implementation responsibilities. Task 3.2 -Monitor Vendor and Equipment Performance The consultant will provide project administration support to the City through the start-up implementation project. This will include confirmation of the vendor's compliance to the contract, and assessing performance of the AMR system to verify it meets specified requirements. The consultant will also help develop auditing tools and reports that will allow the City to track the vendor and equipment performance on an on-going basis. Also included are the necessary project supervision, direction and coordination with the City's management and staff. We will review correspondence, project activities, billings, conduct reviews, prepare status reports, and conduct discussions with the City's staff as necessary. HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 31 Task 4 - On-going Implementation Assistance The consultant will be pleased to provide, as an optional supplemental service, any additional ongoing assistance that may be requested by the City. We have extensive experience with training, inspection of vendor installations, and procurement of support components. HDR Engineering, InC. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 32 7.4 Summary of 2007 Cost Model Results Summary of Results Updated: November 5, 2007 Pags 1 of 4 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 Operating Budget (Does Not Inc lude Customer Service) Touch ReadAquita 5321,683 S454,d12 5469,883 54B5,BB8 5502,445 Touch Read 5345,563 5518,817 5537,448 5556,753 5576,757 Mobile Drive-by 5348,373 5360,836 5373,749 5387,128 5400,990 Fixed Radio 5301,999 5311,743 $322,874 5334,406 $346,354 Project Management and Pracurment Services Touch Read Aquila 5166,238 5166.238 50 50 50 Touch Read 5166,238 5166,238 50 50 50 Mobile Dave-by 5166,238 5166,238 50 50 50 Fixed Radio 5166,238 5166,238 $0 $0 50 Capital Outlay to be Borrowed Touch Read Aquila $1,881,838 $2,424,137 50 $0 50 Touch Read $1,980,238 $2,460,517 $0 $0 $0 Mobile Drive-by 52,666,194 53,124,600 50 50 $0 Fixed Radio $2,890,259 53,290,000 50 50 $0 Capital Cost out of Pocket Touch Read Aquila SO 50 549,392 551,120 552,905 Touch Read SO 50 549,392 551,120 552,905 MobileDrnre-by 50 50 563,512 565,722 $58,005 Fixed Radice SO $0 566,572 568,886 571,277 Debt Service Payments FouchReadAquila S2@6,160 5296,160 5296,960 5296,160 5296,160 Touch Read 5305,430 5305,430 5305,430 5305,430 5305,430 Mobile Drive-by 5398,284 539$,284 $398,284 5398,2$4 5398,284 Fixed Radio 5425,071 5425,071 5425,071 5425,071 5425,071 Long-Term Budget (Prof. Management + Debt Service + Out of Pocket Capital • Operating) Touch Read Aquila S7B4,081 5916;$09 $815,435 5833,168 5851,510 Touch Read 5817,231 5990,485 5892,270 S913,303 5935,093 Mobile Drive-by 5812,895 5925,358 5835,545 5851,134 5867,279 Fixed Radio SB93,308 5903,052 $814,517 5828,364 5842,702 Results and Inputs NPV Ij' PV NPV ~PV Nom! Debt Service Out of Pocket Capital Totai Capital Pro{. Mang. Operating Touch Read Aquila 53,754,210 5705,762 54,459,972 S309,982 57,297,939 Touch Read 53,871,719 5762,657 54,634,377 5309,982 58,906,595 Mobile Drive-by 55,048,765 5930,634 55,979,399 5309,982 55,964,076 Fixed Radio 55,388,325 5981,638 56,369,962 S309,9$2 55,150,430 Real Dollar Reai Dollar Real Dollar Real Dollar Real Dollar Debt Service Out of Packet Capital CBpIta1 Proj. Mona. Operating Touch Read Aquila $5,923,203 51,228,254 57,151,457 5332,475 512,198,257 Touch Read 56,108,603 51,324,658 57,433,261 5332,475 515,129,087 Mobile Drive-by 57,965,fi$7 $t,fi17,545 59,583,232 5332,475 59,937,863 Fixed Radio 58,501,426 51,705,749 510,207,175 5332,475 58,580,502 Cost per Read Meter Readings Meter Readers 5119,691 5268,644 5271,332 5274,044 5276,7$0 Field Service 510,892 $24,447 524,691 524,938 525,187 Operating Cost/Read (Meter Readers + Field Service + Customer Service) Touch Read Aquil: 52.46 51.55 51.59 51.63 51.66 Touch Read 52.65 51.77 51.82 59.86 59.91 Mobile Drive-by 52.67 5123 51.26 51.29 51.33 Fixed Radio 52.31 51 A6 $1.09 51.12 S1.15 Op.+Cap. Cost/Read Touch Read Aquik 56.00 53.13 52]5 52.79 52.82 Touch Read 56.26 53.38 $3.01 53.05 53.10 Mobile Drive-by 5b.99 53.16 $2.82 52.85 52.87 Fixed Radio 56.84 53.08 52]5 52.77 52.79 HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 33 Summary of Results Updated: November 5, 2007 Page 2 of 4 2014 201r 1fi 2017 Operating Budget (Does Not Include Customer Service) Touch Read Aquila 5519,572 $537,290 $555,620 $574,583 Touch Read 5597,487 $618,967 $641,226 $664,292 Mobile Drive-by $415,352 $430,234 $445,654 $461,631 Fixed Radio $358,733 $371,557 $384,845 $398,612 Project Management and Pr ocunnent Services Touch Read Aquila $0 $D $D $0 Touch Read $0 SD $D $0 Mobile Drive-by $0 $0 $D $0 Fixed Radio $0 $0 $0 $0 Capital Outlay to 6e Borrowed Touch Read Aquila $0 50 $0 $0 Touch Read $0 50 $D $0 Mobile Drive-by $0 $0 $D $0 Fixed Radio $0 $0 50 $0 Capital Cos[ out of Pocket Touch Read Aquila $56,317 $57,797 $58,843 $61,108 Touch Read $65.821 $63,828 $58,843 561,108 Mobile Drive-by 585,462 $73,082 $75,6D4 578,507 Fixed Radio $92.706 $76,595 $79,235 582,277 Debt Service Payments Touch Read Aquila $296,160 $296,16D $296,160 $296,160 Touch Read 5305,430 $3D5,430 $3D5,430 $305,430 Mobite Drive-by 5398,284 $398,284 $398,284 $398,284 Fixed Radio 5425,071 5425,071 $425,D71 $425,071 Long-Term Budget (Proj. Management + Debt Service + Out of Pocket Capital + Operating) Touch Read Aquila $872,049 $891,246 $910,624 $931,852 Touch Read $968,737 $988,225 $1,005,499 5'1,030,831 Mobite Drive-by 5899,099 $901,6D1 $919,542 $938,423 Fixed Radio 5876,510 $873,224 $889,151 $905,960 Results and Inputs NPV Yrs to lmol. Total Touch Read Aquila $12,067,893.33 2 Touch Read $'I3,850,953.18 2 Mobile Drive-by $12,253,455.79 2 Fixed Radio $11,830,374.39 2 Real Dollar Total Touch Read Aquita $19,682,188 Touch Read $22,8g4,g24 Mobile Drive-by $19,853,57D Fixed Radio $19,120,153 Cost per Read Meter Readings 2018 $594,202 $688,196 $478,166 $412,876 $D $D $D $0 $0 $0 $D $63,220 $63,220 $81,203 $85,1 DO $296,160 $305,430 $398,284 $425,071 $953,581 $1,056,846 $957,674 $923,047 ReadslDav 350 35D 7,500 Meter Readers 279,552 282,348 285,168 288,D24 290,9D4 Field Service 25,439 25,694 25,950 26,210 26,472 Operating CosdRead (Meter Readers + Field Service + Cusramer Service) Touch Read Aquil 51.7D $1.74 $1.79 $1.83 51.87 Touch Read 51.96 $2.01 $2.06 $2.11 52.17 Mobile Drive-by 51.36 $1.40 $1.43 $1.47 51.51 Fixed Radio 51.18 $1.21 $'L24 $1.27 51.30 Op.+Cap. Cost/Read Touch Read Aqui1 52.86 $2.89 $2.93 $2.97 53.00 Touch Read 53.18 $321 $333 $3.28 53.33 Mobile Drive-by 52.95 $2.93 $2.96 52.99 S3.D2 Fixed Radio 52.87 $2.83 $2.86 $2.88 $2.91 HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 34 Summary of Resuhs Updated: November 5, 2007 Page 3 of 4 2D 19 ~ ~ ~~ 2~ Operating Budget (Does Not Include Customer Service] Touch Read Aquila $614,498 $635,496 $657,221 5679,698 $702,953 Touch Read $796,053 $824,714 $854,416 5885,197 $917,097 MoblleDrrve-by 5495,341 $513,116 $531,535 555D,622 $570,4D0 Fixed Radio 5427,655 $442,968 $458,835 5475,275 $492,310 Project Management and Procurment Services Touch Read Aquila $0 $0 $0 $0 $D Touch Read $0 $D $0 $0 $0 Mobile Drive-by $D SO $0 a0 $D Fixed Radio $0 $D $D 50 $D Capital Outlay to be Borrowed Touch Read Aquila $0 $D $0 50 $D Touch Read $D $0 $0 ~ $0 Mobile drive-by $0 ~D $D SD SD Fixed Radio $0 $0 $0 50 $0 Capital Cost out of Pocket Touch Read Aquila $66,936 568,947 $70,230 $72,897 575,391 Touch Read $12D,519 575,770 $70,230 $72,897 575,391 MobileDrrve-by $1DD,756 $87,185 $90,161 $93,575 596,756 Fixed Radio 5109,136 591,364 $94,48D $98,055 $101,384 Debt Service Payments Touch Read Aquila $296,160 $296,16D 5296,160 5296,160 $296,160 Touch Read 5305,430 $305,430 $3D5,430 5305,430 $3D5,d30 Mobile Drive-by 5396,284 $398,284 $398,284 5398,284 $398,284 Fixed Radio $425.071 $425,071 $425,071 5425,071 $425,071 Long-Term Budget (Prof. Management + Debt Service + Out of Pocket Capital + Operating) Touch Read Aquila $977,595 $1,OOD,604 $1,023,611 $1,048,755 $1,074,505 Touch Read $1,222,002 $1,205,914 $1,230,077 $1,263,524 $1,297,919 Mobile Drive-by $994,381 $998,586 51,019,981 $1,042,481 $1,065,A40 Fixed Radio $961,862 5959,404 5978,386 5998,401 $1,018,766 Resuhs and inputs VisEts?Day SlPad. MIU Startup-1n#ra. Read E~Life Touch Read Aquila 35 575.00 5 Touch Read 35 $15.00 5 Mobile Drive-by 325 $75.00 $42,D00 10 Fixed Radio $88.00 $205,OD0 2D Cost per Read Meter Readings Meter Readers 293,808 296,748 299,712 302,712 305,736 Field Service 26,737 27,004 27,274 27,547 27,822 Operating CosURead (Meter Readers + Field Service + Customer Service] Touch Read Aqui $1.92 51.96 $2.01 $2.06 52.11 Touch Read $2.48 52.55 $2.61 $2.68 52.75 Mobile Drive•by $1.55 51.58 $1.63 $1.67 51.71 Fixed Radio 51.33 51.37 $7.4D $1.44 S1.d8 Op.+Cap. CosdRead Touch Read Aqui $3A5 53.09 $3.13 $3.18 5322 Touch Read $3.81 53.72 $3.76 $3.83 53.89 Mobile Drive-by $3.10 53.08 $3.12 $3.16 53.19 Fixed Radio $3.00 52.96 52.99 $3.02 53.05 HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 35 Summary of Results Updated: November 5, 2007 Page 4 of 4 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 To#al Operating Budget (Does Not Include Customer Service) Touch Read Aquila $727,014 $751,910 $777,668 $804,321 $831,899 $12,198,257 Touch Read $950,157 $984,419 $1,019,928 $1,056,729 $1,094,871 $15,129,087 MobiteDrive-by $590,896 $612,134 $634,144 $656,952 5680,589 $9,937,863 Fixed Radio $509,962 $528,252 $547,205 $566,844 $587,196 $8,580,502 Project Management and Pr acurment Services Touch Read Aquila $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $332,475 Touch Read $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $332,475 Mobile Drive-by $0 $0 $D $0 $0 $332,475 Fixed Radio $(! $0 $0 $0 $0 $332,475 Capital Outlay to be Borrowed Touch Read Aquila $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $4,305,975 Touch Read $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $4,440,755 Mobile Drive-by $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $5,790,794 Fixed Radio $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $6,180,259 Capital Cost out of Packet 7ouchReadAquila $79,977 $82,094 $83,946 $87,091 $90,043 $1,228,254 Touch Read $92.722 $89,813 $83,946 $87,091 $90,043 $1,324,658 Mobile Drive-by $119,370 $103,797 $107,683 $111,702 $115,461 $1,617,545 Foxed Radio $129,09fi $108,757 $112,826 $117,034 $120;969 $1,705,749 Debt Service Payments Touch Read Aquila $296,160 $296,160 $296,160 $2'96,160 5296,160 $5,923,203 Touch Read $305,430 $305,430 $305,430 $305,430 5305,430 $6,108,603 Mobile Drive-by $398,284 $398,284 $398,284 $398,284 $398,284 $7,965,687 Fixed Radio $425,071 $425,071 $425,071 $425,071 $425,071 $8,501,426 Long-Term Budget (Prof. Ma nagement + Debt Service + O ut of Pocket Capital + Operating) Touch Read Aquila $1,103,151 $1,130,163 51,157,774 $1,187,572 $1,218,101 $19,682.188 Touch Read 51,348,309 $1,379,662 51,409,304 $1,449,250 $1,490,343 $22,894,824 Mobile Drive-by $1,108,55A $1,114,216 51,140,112 $1,166,939 $1,194,335 $19,853,570 Fixed Radio $1,064,129 $1,062,080 51,085,103 $1,108,950 $1,133,235 $19,120,153 Cost per Read Meter Readings Meter Readers 308,796 311,880 315,000 318,156 321,336 Field Service 28,100 28,381 28,665 28.952 29,242 Operating Cost/Read (Meter Readers + Field Service + Cusrorner Service) Touch Read Aqufl $2.16 $2..21 $2.26 $2.32 $2.37 Touch Read $2.82 $2.89 $2.97 $3.04 $3.12 MofrileDrive-by $1.75 $1.80 $1.85 $1.89 $1.94 Fixed Radio $1.51 $1.55 $1.59 $1.63 $1.67 Op.+Cap. Cost/Read Touch Read Aquil $3.27 $3.32 $3.37 $3.42 $3.47 Touch Read $4.00 $4.05 $4.10 $4.18 $4.25 Mobile Drive-by $3.29 $3.27 $3.32 $3.36 $3.41 Fixed Radio $3.16 $3.12 $3.16 $3.19 $3.23 HDR Engineering, Inc. Dubuque Water Meter Review and Testing 36 EXHIBIT D 2.5"Long Meter Coupling For 5/8" N 3/4" and 3/4" Water Meters A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Series 201 Style LJFR Meter Coupling is an innovative design that allows low volumes of water usage, previously unmeasured by the water meter, to be measured simply by hatching the usage. Indicators show that 5% to 10% of total water consumption is Lost due to low, unmeasured flows. This device is in service worldwide. Standard Model Features Include: • Cast brass housing construction conforms to AW WA C-800 (latest revision) • Self cleaning internal components • Laying length equal to a standard meter coupling (2.5") for ease in retrofitting • Meter swivel nut inlet and MNPT outlet • Available as a non check valve where them~al expansion is an issue, add x001 to model numF • For use with Volumetric (Positive Displacement) & Multi jet meters • Available in No-Lead Brass material. • iJFIt is directional U.F.R. technology provided by ®/4.~.~. Flow Control Accessories LTD -Patent Pending rt• UFR - V for Volumetric (Positive Displacement) Meters 201-3JM 431 5/8" x 3/4" or 3/4" * 201-3JM 431x001 5/8" x 3/4" or 3/4" Meter Measurement No h k UFR Manufacturer Neptune Models TIO Element Meter Tvoe UFR Tvoe UFR Marldn9 ec Ma Ba er 25 - 35 Notating Disc Herse 4 0 Senes - II s Volumetric /Displacement / Sensus /Rockwell SR - SRII Positive Displacement (PD) L----r~" Volumetric UFR - V UFR - V - NCV Eister /Ken[ Amco CT00 Osci6ating Piston Master Meter MMPD Master Meter BIMJ - MMMJ Sensus PMM ElsterAmw M740 MO-C Mul[i-Jet Velocity Y""-- ~- Multi-J t UFR Has MR-MT . e -M2 UFR-M2-NLY Protlslon PM - PMM Sevem Trent M netie N/A N/A N/A N/A Sin le Jet N/A N/A N/A WA Acturis MCt S - MC20 MuIU-Jet Coma Facto Contac Facto Conta Facto Cont Fact MSD - TNII not sold in US Coma Facto Coma Facto Coma Facto Conta facto Outlet List 3/4" Female meter swivel nut 3/4" Female meter swivel nut 3/4" Female meter swivel nut 3/4" Female meter swivel nut 3/4" Male iron pipe thread 90.75 3/4" Male iron pipe thread 97.50 3/4" Male iron pipe thread 90.75 3/4" Male iron pipe thread 97.50 Catalog & List Price Sections (9) "CHECK VALVES" & List Price Sheet Section "CHECK VALVES" Date: 07/01/08 Ref. #08-092 fi !! nmeasure - ow a uccr 80D.292.2737 ~ FAX 800.832.9296 ~ salesCaymcdonald.com ~ www.aymcdonald.com UFR - M2 for Multijet Meters 201-3JM 432 518" x 3/4" or 3!4" * 201-3JM 432x001 5/8" x 3/4" or 314" *Non check valve .T- , ~_ ' w QTY. M~D4HALD~ cF.R Unmeasured-Flog Reducer .~ ,~~ _ , ~,„,- . - ~ ~ ~, , ~ .k- ,~-r THE PROBLEM ;UNACCOUNTED FOR WATER (NO~FI REVENUE VIIAT R) .. rt-~ 1=ve~r water systerTi has to cope with unaccounted for water Pipzellne losses theft, and urlmeaSU~ed flotiv all contribute to the p2rcenta`gecf water th~# goes unmetered.; tNthin tFie household, leaks; drips,' and low flow devices collectively >. ~ , abcount fob as mach as l4~ aF a typlCa~ tiotrle's`waterusege: Awater meter is not,~designed to mea~u~re volumes of water.that flow atvery ~ow,rates. Unmeasured water is non-revenue water.. Below a'meter's design pof~t, watei'can flow at a rate Vvhich' can account for as mush as 2,000 galloris~ per hQuse- z _ r_ -• a. r. hold of unbilled Water annually; water that is wasted and must be treated by the public wastewater system. UFR -.THE SOLUTION The UFR captures this low flow water and forces it through the meter in a way that causes nearly every drop to be registerec by the water meter. Losses are reduced and customers are billed for the proper amount being used.. >,. Without UFR With UFR r c, a • 3 3 Water Meter Threshold 3 . O iI 2 IL Q Q Q HOW THE UFR WORKS Time Tie The UFR works by changing the way that the water flows through the water meter at low flow rates. At low flow rates there is not enough energy In the'flow to activate the water meter. With a UFR installed the same flow is divided into measurablE quantities (see chart above) of water that pass through the water meter at intervals which have enough energy to registe on the meter; causing low flow water to be measured and capturing lost revenue. At higher flow rates, the UFR is fully open, allowing the water to flow normally with minimal head loss. As flow is reduced, the ~ UFR returns #o -Its operation of hatching 15 the water flow. 75 THE RESULTS '" UFR installations can increase the mea- ~ +2 surement of billable water between as s ,o much as five and ten percent. ~ 5 a n 6 314" UFR FLOW RATE - 60 PSI INLET U.F.R. technology provided by •~k.R.~. Flow Control Accessories LTD -Patent Pending Eor more in#ormation shout A.Y. M~Donald Y.F.R, - http~.~litrwtN.aYmcdonald.com~UfR 0 S 10 15 TA 25 ~ 35 NDPIMLNOME USIDE- ONIONS P91 MINUTE (UPtq S100PM EXHIBIT E City of Dubuque UFR Proposal March 23, 2009 Executive Summary: The UFR (Unmeasured -Flow Reducer) is a device that is installed after the water meter that increases the ability of a water meter to register water usage at extremely low flows. The benefits of this product to the City of Dubuque are - • Increased revenue -Currently, low flows are not being registered and billed to the homeowner. • Reduced unaccounted for water -Small leaks after the water meter will be accounted for and will be addressed by the homeowner. • Sustainability-Water, avital natural resource, is conserved by making each homeowner cognizant of their actual water usage, even when it is merely a drip. A. Y. McDonald proposes the addition of the UFR to all Dubuque residential water meters by inclusion in the upcoming water meter change out program as well as an addition into the city's municipal specifications for all new installations. A. Y. McDonald will offer two separate versions of this product to simplify the installation during meter change out. The successful bidder of the meter change out program will purchase the UFR products through normal distribution channels and install the UFR as a part of the change out installation process. Completion of the meter change out with UFR and adding the UFR to the specification for all new residential services will result in the City of Dubuque increasing revenue from water and sewer usage by an average of seven percent. Current Application: The City of Dubuque currently has 20,559 5/8" water meters and 614 %" meters in their system. The average monthly usage of these meters is 8.0 CCF (CCF=one hundred cubic feet) or approximately 6000 gallons. The following tables show the average monthly billing per meter and total billing for all residential meters in the system. Average Monthly Household Usage Meter Monthly Water Sewer Rate Monthly Size Usage in Rate billing Per ._ CCF Unit _W_.. 5/8" ....._-_.._____..-. 8 ..~.____----_ $ 2.16 ___~,-..,_...__.._....___r_____..~-,.__ $ 2.37 $ 36.24 3/4°~ ___ 8 _ $ 2.16 $ 2.37 $ 36.24 Total Meters in Dubuque Municipal System Meter Quantity Monthly billing Per Unit Total Monthly billing Size 5/8" 20559 $ 36.24 $ 745,058.16 3/4" 614 $ 36.24 $ 22,251.36 *Average Total Monthly $ 767,309.52 _ _._ _. __ _______ _ System Billing *Average billing based on usage of 8 CCFG and new Municipal Water and Sewer rates. -- _ ---• ___.. _ -- -..-- - __ _. ____ . Page 1 City of Dubuque UFR Proposal f March 23, 2009 Proposed Addition of UFR: Adding the UFR to the City of Dubuque's residential water systems will increase the metered revenue by an average of 7% based on historical data and research pilot studies done both domestically and around the world. Additional revenue generated by the UFR Meter Avg UFR Monthly Size Total Monthly Revenue UFR Dollar Increase Tota l Monthly billing billing ~ Increase ~- With UFR S/8" $ 745,058.16 7% $ 52,154.07 ~ ~_-~ _ ~ $ 797,212.23 ._ 3/4" $ 22,251.36 7% $ 1,557.60 $ 23,808.96 Total Monthly System Billing $ 821,021.19 With UFR Product Offering: UFR meter resetter below includes four meter gaskets. This configuration is recommended for meter change outs. • Ease of installation resulting in reduced costs • Minimized disruption of existing pipes • Allows for uniform installation UFR meter coupling set below includes two meter gaskets. This configuration is recommended for new installations. ~~_ ~. a'~. r 4- ca o ~~ Implementation: Based on existing City of Dubuque residential water meter installations, A.Y. McDonald Mfg. Co. is offering two UFR setting options. The first option is a UFR meter resetter. This option is the quickest and least labor intensive. Installation is done by removing the existing meter and gaskets and setting the UFR resetter and new gaskets in it's place. The new meter can be preassembled to the UFR resetter prior to final installation saving both time and labor costs. ---_---------------_-_ ___--____ - Page2 -..--__------------_____.