Problems with water meters in Lewiston to affect billing dates

LEWISTON — The city has announced that its Water Division has encountered unforeseen problems with reading customer meters over the past month. This included malfunctioning meter reading equipment and contending with snow, ice and freezing rain that make meter reading slow, difficult and dangerous. As a result, some utility bills have been delayed for as long as two to three weeks beyond their normal read date, and, in some cases, bills will cover a longer period of time and be larger than normal.

By the next billing, readings should be back on track and that billing cycle may be shorter and perhaps lower in cost. The city has upgraded its meter reading equipment, eliminating the problems which contributed to delayed billing, and an additional staff person will now be in the field to assist with catch-up until the billing cycles are back on schedule.

Residents’ patience and understanding are appreciated. Meter readings are being done as promptly as possible.