Council Considers Resolution Allowing Residents to Opt Out of 'Smart' Meters

Troy City Council members will likely soon consider a resolution allowing Troy utility customers to opt out of using "smart" meters after several individuals expressed concern over the possible side effects of the meters during .

The new meters monitor utility customers' usage with precision online by wirelessly transmitting usage data. Because the data is transmitted via radio waves, some utility customers are worried about the radio frequency emissions — and about privacy.

“This is a choice of the homeowner or the business or whatnot," Councilman Doug Tietz said.

“As council members … we first need some feedback from other people," Mayor Pro Tem Maureen McGinnis said. "While I wouldn’t mind having further discussion, I’m not ready to move a resolution tonight.”

The ability to opt out of using the "smart" meters is supported in a resolution from the Oakland County Board of Commissioners. Troy City Council is waiting for results of a study on "smart" meters from by the Michigan Public Service Commission before making a decision.

“They are going to prepare a report," City Attorney Lori Grigg Bluhm said. "Once we have that report, we can include that in the next council packet.”

“I’d like to see that report before we do the resolution on this," Councilman Dane Slater agreed.

Troy City Council may vote on a resolution allowing residents to opt out of using "smart" meters as early as the July 9 Troy City Council meeting.

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