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September 12, 2005
Meter Readers
Every month, three trucks and three meter readers arrive at my house:
CEMC comes to read the power meter.
The City of Portland comes to read the gas meter.
White House Utility District comes to read the water meter.
That seems like a very expensive way to do things. I wonder if these three organizations have ever thought about working together and combining these readings -- one person in one truck visits each house only once a month. If nothing else, it would save a lot of gasoline.
If they don't like that idea, here is another one. Perhaps they can give people the option to have their meters read once every other month (or perhaps once a quarter.) That would save gas. It would also mean mailing out less bills and handling less payments. Personally, I'd love to write only one check every three months. I have no idea what percentage of people would go for this option, but a simple survey should tell.
Posted by admin at September 12, 2005 12:55 PM
Comments
I wouldn't mind paying every 3 months if I new it would save the city and myself money! It is crazy though, we have had some outrageous bills this summer so that may have a lot to do with it! The gas was outrageous and hard to come by! Someone has to pay for it!
Posted by: Cassie at November 4, 2008 7:45 AM
My water bill would be affordable if it wasn't for the sewer bill on it .!
Posted by: Kris at May 23, 2007 7:28 PM
I didnt know that you can have the gas meter turned off in the summer. I dont use gas only in the winter,so I am going to have it cut off for the summer and save over 20 dollars a month. Am I correct on this thought...
Posted by: MsD at June 21, 2006 2:36 PM
I have a question. Why does Portland Utilities charge a base rate?
I live in an apartment complex here in Portland. I am the only one in my apt. Yet I pay the same price every month. Yet my bill is the same as others that have 2-3 peolpe. Also if I was to be 1 day late with payment I am charged a fee. But yet, Portland Utilities over charges me.
Why is this? Can't they come out and read my meter so that I will only pay what I have used? I don't think this is fair at all. How about a refund???
Posted by: just me at April 9, 2006 1:48 PM
profit is tax,cemc calls it margin,the persons who spend's your tax r getting paid to spend your money.
Posted by: JOHN DOE at November 4, 2005 6:43 PM
The city of portland is currently looking into scanable meters. You will be able to just drive down the street and record the readings. This will same time, manpower, and money.
Posted by: Councilman Callis at September 12, 2005 9:02 PM