Members of the Houston City Council will soon study an automatic utility meter reading system and solutions for massive infiltration of water into the community’s sewer system. The discussion came during a meeting Monday night.
Scott Avery, city administrator, said a Nov. 4 meeting is planned with a company that operates specialized equipment that sends cameras into pipes, is able to make repairs at that time and prevents excavation. Avery said he’s worried by a significant amount of water the pours into city pipes when heavy rainfall hits, dramatically increasing the workload at the wastewater treatment plan.
The meter reading equipment will be examined at an Oct. 29 meeting.
The information was among several reports given by Avery, who asked that the two city buildings on Oak Hill Drive and West Highway 17 be converted from a wood burning furnace system to an electrically powered one. The cost of $18,976 was approved.
Avery reported that a committee comprised of city employees will be involved in reviewed health insurance options for the upcoming year. A review of property and casualty insurance also is underway. He said city hall’s exterior is set for power washing, new council seating has been ordered and new playground equipment has been installed at West Side Park and Emmett Kelly Park.
He told members bids will soon be sought for FEMA-funded work at Emmett Kelly Park to correct erosion projects and that he plans to do a revamp of the city’s website.
Avery also told the council that he’d like to meet again to discuss the 2020 city budget as it is being drafted.
In other matters, members:
•Were introduced to Stetson Evetts, who assumes duties next Monday as director of the parks and recreation department.
•Heard from Rob Harrington, economic development director, who said a feasibility study on operating a municipal broadband system has been completed and will be released soon. A labor study will be highlighted to the council soon and a review of the housing market is nearly done.
•Approved the city administrator to be the primary contact for the city’s electrical purchasing cooperative. The city clerk will be the alternate.
•Approved an earlier request to close downtown Houston streets 5 to 8 p.m. Halloween for planned activities.
•Learned that bid documents are being finalized in Jefferson City for aspects of a new municipal swimming pool. The city recently was awarded a $250,000 grant.
•Adjourned into a closed session. There were no votes taken.