The presentation by Core & Main representatives, including Jim Hart and Josh Orway, centered on transitioning Kingston’s current water metering system to the Flex advanced metering infrastructure. This system promises to revolutionize the town’s water management by enabling automatic meter readings through strategically placed antennas, thereby eliminating the need for physical readings. The Flex system offers several advantages, such as real-time information access, leak detection, and remote monitoring of malfunctioning meters. One significant feature is its proprietary primary use licensed frequency band, which ensures the system operates interference-free from other wireless devices.

Among the standout capabilities of the Flex system is its real-time, on-demand functionality, allowing for immediate meter readings in urgent situations such as real estate transactions. The system also includes a remote shut-off valve feature, enabling water flow control from a distance, which was met with enthusiasm by attendees. Questions about the system’s performance in adverse weather conditions led to discussions on the strategic placement of antennas to ensure comprehensive system coverage. Core & Main representatives highlighted the system’s robust 15-year full and five-year proration warranty on its batteries, claiming it to be superior to competitor offerings.

As the discussion progressed, the representatives addressed the necessity of replacing older “RS” meters, which are incompatible with the new antenna system. They detailed a trade-in program offering discounts for these replacements and outlined the existing infrastructure’s readiness, with approximately 850 radios already compatible with the FlexNet system. The presentation delved into the technical aspects of the system, including the installation of antennas and the importance of partnering with distributors for effective implementation.

Another focal point of the meeting was the user accessibility of the new system. The proposed customer portal allows users to monitor their water consumption on an hourly basis and receive alerts for potential leaks or when bills reach a certain threshold. Additional features include a burst pipe alarm and ambient temperature sensor to prevent flooding and freezing issues. The presentation also covered the availability of various meter sizes, including ultrasonic technology meters that offer greater accuracy and efficiency.

The representatives urged proactive measures for meter replacements, especially for older models nearing the end of their operational life. They advised the board to begin the replacement process, even if immediate funding was not available. A propagation study was proposed to assess the current system’s capacity, with costs potentially credited back if the town proceeds with the AMI implementation.

Following the technical presentation, updates on local projects were provided, including the Main Street Water Man project, which had processed a change order for police details and was nearing completion. The board also discussed a new well project, noting increased resident participation in water sample testing. Concerns about timing for the fall town meeting were raised, particularly regarding state certification of retained earnings necessary for proceeding with certain articles.

Administrative changes were also on the agenda, with the town administrator’s transition and plans for a search committee to find a permanent replacement. The board expressed a preference for managing the search process internally to save costs. As the meeting concluded, acknowledgments of outstanding tasks were made, with anticipation for future discussions on the propagation study and other technical matters.