Neptune Technologies has completed the first phase of residential water meters installations and is now moving into the next phase of the project, coordinating installations for commercial, industrial, and pit meters.
Thank you to all residents for your patience and cooperation throughout this project. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Village Office.
What is happening?
The Village has been awarded $2.7 million in provincial grant funding to fully cover the purchase and installation of water meters in our community through the Universal Water Metering Pilot Project. Water meters will be installed in residential properties and businesses starting late fall/winter 2025.
Why are we doing this?
Water meters play a crucial role in improving the efficiency and sustainability of water utility services. Below are several reasons for our decision to proceed with the installation of water
meters.
Identifying problem areas
- Leak detection is critical given the age of Ashcroft’s existing water infrastructure. Water metering enables us to better respond to and address leaks, allowing us to avoid costly upgrades and continue water conservation efforts.
Ensuring fair billing
- Having water meters allows residents to pay for only the water they use on their property. Currently, all residents pay the same flat rate regardless of use.
Conversion efforts
- Conserving water is important to maintaining a viable community. Our current use of summer water use puts pressure on our water service infrastructure especially our water treatment plant, which is not sized for this high demand. Installing water meters helps residents better track their water use and make informed decisions on how to use, and conserve, their water.
The Future of Ashcroft
- The Village depends on provincial and federal funding to access grants that help us repair, upgrade, and build new community infrastructure. Increasingly, grants for water and sewer infrastructure are given to communities that have water meters and practice water conservation.
How do I get involved?
Community engagement will start in June 2025 and continue through the project’s duration. The Village is invested in hearing your from you, so please look out for the following engagement opportunities:
- June 12th Open House 5pm – 8 pm – The first open house will be held on June 12th at the Ashcroft Community Hall and is open to all residents. This will be an opportunity to ask Village Council members, staff, and individuals supporting the work on this project any questions you may have..
- Summer events and farmers’ markets – Staff will be hosting an information table at Sunday farmers’ markets and will be available to speak with at other community events throughout the summer.
- Late August Community BBQ – As part of our summer barbeque event we will have a dedicated information table to speak with residents.
- Fall 2025 Open House – We will have a second open house session in the fall to help set residents up for the installation process.
Continuing the conversation
We will continue to share information with you regarding the water meter process through the Village of Ashcroft website, social media pages, and direct mail.
What is the project’s timeline?
Water meter installations are scheduled to begin in fall 2025 / winter 2026. Residents will receive advance notice before any work takes place. The Village will work to prepare residents with all the information they need to know prior to this period.
Meeting Summaries
Where can I find more information?
Information about installation expectations, billing changes, and more is shared in the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)
If you have questions, please contact the Village office at:
Phone: 250-453-9161 Email: watermeters@ashcroftbc.ca