Yes or no. Saturday, we’ll know the outcome of Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s special election regarding smart meters. Here’s what’s at stake: A “yes” vote means those who choose not to have a smart meter at their home, about 3,000,
Yes or no.
Saturday, we’ll know the outcome of Kauai Island Utility Cooperative’s special election regarding smart meters.
Here’s what’s at stake: A “yes” vote means those who choose not to have a smart meter at their home, about 3,000, will pay additional fees. The fees include a one-time set-up charge and a $10.27 monthly fee. Both fees cover the cost of sending technicians to read and service old meters, according to KIUC.
A “no” vote could result in all members, about 30,000, paying the costs — an estimated $340,000 per year — of reading old meters.
Those opposed to smart meters cite health and privacy concerns. KIUC says the meters are efficient, cost-effective and the latest technology in using energy wisely. All co-op members have a chance to weigh-in on what has become a heated issue. The deadline to cast a ballot is noon Saturday. Hopefully, within a few hours, results will be in.
Saturday is also “Meet the KIUC Board Candidates Forum” from 2 to 4 p.m. at the Kapaa Public Library.
The free event is being hosted by the Wailua-Kapaa Neighborhood Association, in partnership with Apollo Kauai. There are three director positions to fill on the nine-member KIUC board. Directors play a key role for the co-op in setting direction and policies.
“Voting for KIUC’s member-elected board of directors is a significant way to contribute to the direction of the cooperative and the island’s energy future,” said Rayne Regush, W-KNA chairman and forum moderator.
If you want to hear from the candidates and where they stand, be sure to visit this forum. The meeting will begin with prepared questions addressing candidate’s experience, KIUC governance, renewable energy, electricity rates and yes, smart meters.
Organizers said all 11 candidates have been invited. Seven candidates, Adam Asquith, Neal Chantara, Daniel Erickson, DQ Jackson, Jonathan “JJ” Jay, Charles “Chuck” Lasker, and James “Jimmy” Trujillo submitted petitions containing the signatures of at least 35 members of the cooperative.
Candidate Stewart V. Burley and incumbent directors David Iha, Teofilo “Phil” Tacbian and Peter Yukimura were nominated by the nominating committee, which is comprised of community members appointed by the KIUC board.
Members should look for their election packets in the mail at the beginning of February. Members can vote by paper ballot, phone or online.
In the meantime, we encourage KIUC members to research the pros and cons of smart meters, then cast their ballot on the smart meter issue by noon Saturday. The outcome is important to Kauai’s future. Don’t let this pass by without being involved. Yes or no, everyone should have their say.
