(KNZA)--New water meters will be installed in the city of Hiawatha.

The City Commission Monday evening accepted a bid proposal for a Neptune water metering system provided by Municipal Supply at a cost of $670,680, contingent on bond financing. It was among seven bids received.

The Commission took the action on the recommendation of Water Supervisor Ryan Smith and Public Works Director Dominic Grier.

During this past year, Grier said the electronic component of the current meters have diminished greatly and the reading rate is currently only reaching 46 percent of customers. The city is having to eye read over 800 meters, which is taking a six-man city crew about 2-3 weeks to complete.

Grier said the new water meter system will help out residents by detecting leaks at their house more rapidly than the current system. In addition, he said the new meter reading infrastructure will help the city's water loss rate, which is currently at 22 percent, and help the city bring in more revenue.