Advisory meeting hears updates on smart-meter opt-out, food-truck rotation and pool opening

At the advisory meeting, Heartland Arts staff and attendees discussed local operational updates including a smart-meter replacement program with an opt-out charge, rotating food trucks at local venues, and an anticipated pool opening in mid-May.

During the meeting Deborah noted that the new utility meter "has more radio frequency" and acknowledged community concern about radio-frequency exposure. She said the town is offering an opt-out option for residents who prefer not to receive the new meter but cautioned that opting out will require "little payments" as stated in the meeting transcript; no specific opt-out fee amount was provided.

Attendees asked whether new meters would require entry to yards and whether some meters could already be read remotely. Deborah responded that some meters are already located so they can be read from a distance and that remote reading will reduce the need for in-person reads. She acknowledged the explanation can be confusing and encouraged residents with specific concerns to follow up with town staff.

On food trucks and local vendor rotation, meeting participants asked how often trucks in a shared area (a space near Marble distillery was discussed) would rotate; Deborah said organizers plan to rotate vendors every few weeks but did not provide a formal schedule.

Deborah also announced the town's pool is targeted to open in mid-May (ahead of Memorial Day), and that pool passes are on sale at the recreation center. She said hiring efforts may include incentives for Spanish-speaking applicants and encouraged community members to apply.

The meeting did not record any formal town vote or ordinance regarding meter replacement or opt-out fees; details and any formal policy would require follow-up with town operations.