Opelikans encouraged to join smart grid meeting

The technology will allow the city to pursue a fiber-optic network for cable television and Internet service, and also offer smart-grid electronic devices in the home, which could save energy.

Many residents have voiced their concerns over the new technology, which was debated in a number of town hall meetings in the summer of 2010. That August, Opelika residents voted for the fiber-optic system and smart grid technology in a special election.

As a result of the many concerns, a task force called the “Smart Grid Bill of Rights Committee” was formed to look out for residents’ interests. Tonight, this six-resident committee, which originally included former Opelika Power Services Director Derek Lee, will update the public on the service and get community input.

When there are major concerns over a project that will affect a large portion of a community, it’s ideal to have an advocacy group chosen to represent the community’s concerns. Kudos to the city for creating this group, and we encourage those interested in the services to hear the report and continue to make their thoughts known.