By Janet Stoica

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Did you receive your bright orange postcard yet? It’s from East National Water of Palmer, Massachusetts. The postcard details your mandatory water meter replacement procedure and has a phone number to call to schedule your appointment with the replacement meter technician. Yes, it’s free and it only takes about 30 minutes for your new water meter to be installed at your home. The technician is polite and knowledgeable, neat, and customer-friendly. Soon you’ll be able to monitor your own water usage as often and whenever you’d like. So what’s keeping you from phoning in for an appointment to have this done?  There’s no time like right now and it only takes a minute. Even their Customer Service representatives are polite and kind. It’s so easy a 6-year-old could phone it in, however, a responsible adult at least 18 years old must be present for the meter installation to take place. For security purposes, meter installers will be wearing company uniforms, using vehicles with company logos, and will be carrying a company issued photo identification and driver’s license. 

Webster is replacing all 5,400 residential water meters and expects these replacements to be completed by year end 2025. East National Water reps have been diligently replacing water meters since July of 2024. Approximately 42% of replacements have been completed. The Water Department appreciates everyone’s support to date. As of January 31, 2025, Quarter 3 water and sewer bills may reflect slightly lower than normal or slightly more than normal usage due to timing within the replacement schedule and alignment with automated billing software. The Water Department is aware of the situation and states that this is normal and will impact a small number of customers. Customers will only pay for metered consumption used.  

There is no need to reach out to East National Water or the Webster Water Department until you receive that bright neon orange card with detailed instructions. Be on the lookout! The project includes the installation of Advanced Metering Infrastructure (“AMI”) and replacement of all water meters. The AMI system includes installation of gateways or collectors that transmit real-time data from the meters to the Water Department. This will assist the Water Department to detect leaks and system issues faster.  The work will be completed by.  For more information about the program please call 800- 252-8556 or visit them at: eastnationalwater.com or contact Webster Water at 508-949-3861 from 7 a.m. – 3 p.m. Monday - Friday. Under Article II, Section 3 of the Water Rules and Regulations policy and Massachusetts General Laws, c. 165, Section11D, Webster Water & Sewer is authorized to enter your premises.