Two months ago, representatives from the company Midwest Meter, Inc. gave a presentation to the Hillsboro City Council about new water meters. On Tuesday, Mar. 26, the council approved the city's first purchase from the company.

The council approved 50 new water meters at a purchase price of $225 per unit. The total package will cost $19,750, with the meters totaling $11,250 and the start-up kit accounting for the remaining $8,500.

According to Public Improvements Commissioner Don Downs, several of the city's meters have experienced problems since the January presentation. Of the roughly 800 meters the city has, he said approximately 400 are experiencing product failure of some sort. He added that he ordered 15 new meters in January from a different distributor, but the city has yet to receive them.

One of the benefits of the products purchased from Midwest Meters is the web-based software that allows water department employees to access meter information on their smartphones or tablets, regardless of their location. The meters are also able to detect a leak and inform employees within six hours, as opposed to 30 days when meters are regularly checked.

Downs said he spoke to a few people comparing Midwest Meter to other options, and he recommended continuing further with the company. The council approved the motion, 4-0.

The next city council meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, Apr. 9, at 7 p.m.