Local company helps rural water systems modernize
Published 6:22 pm Thursday, August 13, 2026
When most people think about innovation, they picture large cities and technology hubs. But one growing Arkansas company is proving that some of the most impactful solutions are being developed with rural communities in mind.
Online Water Bill was created to help water associations simplify day-to-day operations, improve customer service, and address challenges that many rural systems face as infrastructure ages and experienced employees retire.
Founder Zack Andrews found his way to Newton County and now calls the area home. His company provides software designed specifically for small and rural water systems, helping them manage billing, payments, meter reading, bookkeeping, customer communications and other essential functions.
One of the most impressive examples comes from the Deer Community Water Association. Like many rural systems established in the 1980s, years of employee turnover and changing leadership had left some meter locations undocumented or difficult to locate. Using GPS mapping and modern record-keeping tools, Online Water Bill helped recover lost meters and improve system records. Those efforts translated into an estimated $5,000 to $7,000 in additional monthly revenue that can be reinvested into maintaining and improving the water system.
For rural communities, every dollar matters.
Many local water systems are working hard to maintain infrastructure that has served residents for decades. As systems age, repairs become more frequent and operating costs continue to rise. Tools that help reduce water loss, improve record-keeping, and recover revenue can play an important role in ensuring dependable service for the future.
The company recently completed implementation with the City of Delight. According to Andrews, feedback from city staff has been overwhelmingly positive. Features that automate routine tasks reduce administrative burdens and allow employees to focus on larger operational priorities instead of spending valuable time on manual billing and paperwork.
Benefits extend beyond the water office. Customers increasingly expect convenient online payment options and digital access to account information. Andrews noted that many customers have expressed appreciation for the convenience and accessibility the system provides.
What stands out most about Online Water Bill is that it was developed with a clear understanding of the challenges facing rural communities. Rather than asking small water systems to adapt to software built for large municipalities, the platform was designed around the realities of rural operations and limited staffing.
As Newton County and communities across Arkansas continue to look for ways to strengthen infrastructure and improve services, businesses like Online Water Bill demonstrate how local knowledge, innovation, and a commitment to community can create solutions that make a meaningful difference.
The Newton County Chamber of Commerce is hosting a free community presentation featuring Online Water Bill on Thursday, Sept. 17, at 6:30 p.m. in the Carroll Electric Community Room in Jasper. The presentation will be led by Brie Campbell, Owner and head of customer experience at Online Water Bill, and is open to water association board members, municipal officials, elected leaders, community members and anyone interested in learning more about this innovative Arkansas company.
