In Davis District, in 1999-2000, Barnes went after and received about $34,000. The next year, the tally rose to $110,714, but has dwindled since.

In 2001-2002, Davis recovered $66,168. In 2002-03, it took back $19,753. In the fiscal year ending June 30, it brought in just under $17,000; receipts continue to be posted, Barnes said.

Weber District energy managers say they told Utah Power to stop estimating meters at North Ogden Elementary. Next thing they knew, they received a letter detailing $1,219 in refunds.

"It would be nice if there (were) a better system," said Peggy Jo Kennett, president of the Jordan Board of Education. "The utility companies are trying to come up with better technology. But until that's instituted, I guess the best thing we can do is to be proactive, to know there are inconsistencies, and to deal with it."

Following Deseret Morning News inquiries to the utilities, even old problems seemed to improve for at least one district.

Jordan's Devey reported Utah Power showed new interest in his complaints. The utility called a meeting and helped set up a plan to access hard-to-reach meters.

"They're trying to solve it," Devey said. "But we've done this before, too. Time will tell."

---

E-mail: jtcook@desnews.com