The City of Mercer Island is investing in new tools to better serve water customers by replacing aging residential and commercial water meters with an advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) system. This system will help detect and fix leaks, increase efficiency, and create an online portal for customers.

In order to collect the meter readings, the City must install data collection equipment across Mercer Island. Seven locations, chosen for their ability to collect readings from all 7,900 City meters, were originally identified for this equipment. 

However, staff have paused the permit application process for five of these sites to allow City Council to evaluate these locations as well as alternative solutions. The Council will consider these alternatives in a Study Session at their March 5, 2024 meeting. You can learn more about this project, and the proposed equipment locations, on Let's Talk.

Earlier this year, the Mercer Island City Council approved an interlocal agreement with Eastside Fire & Rescue (EF&R) to provide fire and emergency medical services on Mercer Island. Eastside Fire & Rescue will begin as Mercer Island’s provider of fire and emergency medical services on January 1, 2024. While this is an official transition for the City and fire personnel behind the scenes, Islanders can expect the same level of service. Both Mercer Island Fire Stations (Station 91 and Station 92) will remain open and operational.



The Mercer Island community is invited to two Fire Station Open Houses in January, where you can meet your firefighters, explore the stations, see equipment, and learn more about EF&R. An open house for Station 91 (in Town Center) will take place on January 10 from 5:30pm - 7:30pm, and Station 92 (South End) on January 13 from 10:00am - noon. Save the dates! 

If you have questions or want to learn more about the transition to Eastside Fire & Rescue, visit the Let’s Talk Page for background information and a detailed FAQ.

Heavy rainfall this time of year often leads to downed trees and debris. Remember to keep an eye out for tree limbs and other fallen vegetation on roadways, paths, and parks and open spaces. If you see downed power lines, stay clear and report them: call PSE if they're stable, call 911 if they are arcing or pose a threat.

Leaves and debris can also clog storm drains, leading to pooled water and other issues. If you notice a clogged storm drain in your neighborhood, consider clearing it if it's safe to do so. While City teams work to keep all systems functioning, the amount of debris can be very high this time of year.

As always, if you see something needing the City's attention, you can report it using MI-Connect: our online reporting tool. Your reports help us keep things running smoothly for all.