(KMZA)--The Seneca City Council heard a presentation on a new meter reading system for the city's water and electric meters when they meet last week.

Preston Hodges with Core and Main, of McPherson, appeared before the Council to discuss the advantages of going with an AMI or advanced metering infrastructure system.

The system uses smart meters and two-way communication networks to enable utilities to gather and manage data about energy and water consumption.

The city currently uses a drive-by meter reading system, which was installed in 2019.

Hodges said the AMI technology offers numerous benefits--including improved billing accuracy, leak detection and enhanced customer service.

City Administrator Steve Brooks said one of the big advantages of the AMI system is that it would provide " real-time' information.

Mayor Joe Mitchell said he's not opposed to the new technology, but it has to be a justifiable cost.

No action was taken, with the matter referred to the Council's utility committee.

In other business, the Council approved the hiring of Jacob Canerdy for the vacant journeyman lineman position in the Electric Department. Canerdy is to begin work August 11 at a salary of $30 an hour.

The Council also approved the appointment of council member Kris Enneking as council president for a one year term. As council president, will preside over meetings when the mayor is gone.