WaterWise Manatee Program to Bring Smart Water Meters to Manatee Utilities Customers

Manatee County Utilities is launching the WaterWise Manatee program, a major infrastructure upgrade that will provide 150,000 customers with new high-tech water meters.

The transition to this advanced metering infrastructure system will enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and promote environmental sustainability improving access to water meter data, eliminating the monthly process of driving or walking by each home and business.

“This investment in smart technology benefits everyone in Manatee County,” said Manatee County Commission Chair George Kruse. “By reducing costs, increasing efficiency, and saving time, WaterWise Manatee is a win for our residents and the environment.”

Installation of the new smart meters will begin on April 21, 2025, and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027. Manatee County will notify customers with postcards mailed prior to the work occurring in their neighborhood. During the installation process, water service at each customer’s home or business will be interrupted for approximately 10 minutes. While workers will need access to the meter, customers do not need to be present or take any action and there is no charge for the meter upgrade.

“WaterWise Manatee represents a significant step forward in modernizing our county’s water infrastructure,” said Patrick Shea, Manatee County Utilities Director. “With the implementation of this program, we can improve operational efficiency, provide better customer service, and contribute to water conservation efforts.”

As the technology is rolled out to neighborhoods across the county, it will become a key tool for conservation, offering Manatee County Utilities and its customers real-time data on water usage. Future “Phase II” system enhancements will allow customers to monitor their water use online and receive alerts for water flow/consumption, helping them to conserve water and detect issues early.

For more information, visit mymanatee.org/WaterWiseManatee.