NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Officials with the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans have announced that some residents will soon be able to choose a fixed-rate billing option. The SWBNO reported that eligible customers, including those who do not have a smart meter, can choose a billing plan that will allow them to pay a fixed amount every month until their meter is upgraded. Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center opens new clinic in Metairie SWBNO officials said the new option comes after Act 393 was passed during the 2024 Legislative Session. Customers who are eligible are expected to receive letters about their rate and instructions on how to opt in starting the week of Oct. 28. Coast Guard medevacs two from cruise ship near Plaquemines Parish SWBNO officials said the fixed rate will be calculated based on usage, disputed bills and "ready to serve" fees. Those who opt-in will continue to pay a fixed rate until a new smart meter is installed. According to the SWBNO, once the new meter is installed, "a customer's bill will reflect actual water use based on data from their smart meter." Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter. Latest Posts Clear skies, warm weather stick around into next week Saints and Alvin Kamara reportedly agree to contract extension Going to see Taylor Swift in New Orleans? Louisiana AG shares tips on how to avoid scams Senate battle goes from bad to worse for Democrats Two Independence teens arrested in fatal shooting investigation