Houston Public Works plans to send a ‘set rate’ to water customers in May to reduce high bills

Changes are underway for City of Houston water bills, aiming to address longstanding issues with accuracy and customer communication. During a recent committee hearing at city hall, Public Works revealed plans to tackle the problem of approximately 125,000 households with meters that do not transmit data. To assist affected customers, the May bill will introduce a set rate based on meter data obtained through manual readings.

This proactive measure serves as a notification for customers, indicating the expected water usage moving forward and prompting adjustments if necessary. Public Works Chief Operating Officer Randy Macchi emphasized the functionality of existing meters while acknowledging the need for manual readings.

In addition to billing adjustments, Public Works has streamlined processes for addressing high water bills, offering in-person and virtual assistance options with simplified forms. Efforts to rectify faulty meters are ongoing, with nearly 9,000 meters repaired this month and the remainder expected to be fixed by year-end.

Leak detection and repair remain a significant challenge for Public Works, with substantial costs incurred for overtime leak repairs in previous months. To enhance transparency and awareness, the city plans to launch a dashboard providing updates on leak issues, particularly pertinent as the summer approaches.

However, Public Works faces staffing shortages, with over 300 vacancies hindering prompt response times to reported leaks. Despite prioritizing urgent repairs, the agency’s limited workforce may lead to delays in addressing non-emergency leaks.

For customers uncertain about their meter’s functionality, clarity will soon be provided through upcoming water bills, indicating whether their smart water meter is operational. This initiative reflects Public Works’ commitment to improving service quality and transparency in water billing and maintenance.