Smart water meters (AMI)

A construction trades student asked the city to invest in local youth — give them six months to a year to help build the infrastructure rather than hiring outside firms.

Core & Main smart utility specialist explained the manhole scope was replaced with smart wastewater sensors so the city targets repairs where data shows they're needed.

Urged the council to slow down, noting nothing has changed since the same presentation 112 days ago and questioning whether members are prepared for a 17-year commitment.

Flagged the jump from $47 million to $67 million with $20 million in interest and asked why the project wasn't competitively bid; supported the concept but wanted more scrutiny.

Longtime resident applauded the smart meter plan, saying the city's 1946-era meters must be replaced 'like yesterday,' but pressed for the promised stadium bleachers as a community benefit.

Performance Services representative presented the AMI project, guaranteeing $4.1 million annual debt service coverage for 20 years and projecting $15.5 million in annual commercial revenue gains.

Described getting hit with a multi-thousand-dollar bill from a leak discovered two months late, and praised the instant-leak-notification benefit his daughter experiences in Key West.

Asked who pays for the $67 million and complained residents aren't given enough detail in advance to weigh in or contact their council members.

Supported smart meters but asked why the leaking pipes losing 30% of the city's water aren't fixed first.

New resident and nonprofit operator asked whether monthly billing is for residents' benefit or the city's collections, and whether grant money exists to help owners of old properties with leaks.