(a) Water meter pits must be in an accessible location so as to allow the easy reading and inspection of the water meter. No obstructions, impediments or conditions shall exist on or near the water meter pit that prevent the water meter from being easily read, replaced, and/or maintained. Prohibited obstructions include, but are not limited to, shrubbery, flower beds, vehicles or other objects placed on, across, near or over the water meter pit. Water meters that are located in-doors must also be readily accessible for easy reading and maintenance.
(b) The water meter pit, piping, and lid are owned by the owner of the property on which they are located, and such owner is responsible for their safe and proper condition and their compliance with City specifications. The water meter is owned and maintained by the City.
(c) Any contractor or owner who requests a meter pit inspection and/or meter installation when the meter pit or internal plumbing is not ready, thus requiring more than one trip to the site by a City employee or agent, shall be subject to a subsequent trip fee of $63 in addition to all other authorized fees and charges.
(d) Any person violating this section shall be subject to a fine of not less than $100 per violation in addition to the discontinuance of City water service until such time as the meter pit is rendered safe and meets all current City specifications.
(e) On January 1 of each year, beginning in 2017, a 3% cost of living adjustment (“COLA”) shall be added to the previous year’s rates and charges. This 3% increase shall occur automatically each year unless and until such time that the Carmel City Council amends or adjusts the percentage of the COLA increase for the next fiscal year.
(`91 Code, §9-51) (Ord. D-844, 9-21-92; Ord. A-73, §9, 5-3-93; Ord. A-97-11, As Amended, 12-19-11; Ord. D-2269-16, §2, 1-4-16)