Caliente City Council addresses AMI Meter concerns and financial audit findings

The Caliente City Council convened for its regular meetings on Feb. 6 and Feb. 20 at Caliente City Hall, addressing ongoing concerns regarding AMI meters and reviewing the city’s financial audit.

During the Feb. 6 meeting, council member Betsy Comella initiated a discussion on the possibility of an opt-out option for Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) meters, citing safety and health concerns raised by residents. 

AMI meters are digital devices that automatically transmit usage data to the utility provider, eliminating the need for manual readings. While these meters offer benefits such as improved billing accuracy and real-time monitoring, some residents have expressed concerns about their use.

Concerns introduced included potential health risks from radio frequency (RF) emissions. Others worried about cybersecurity risks, as the meters transmit real-time energy usage data wirelessly. Fears were raised about hacking or unauthorized access to household energy patterns. Additionally, some residents reported sudden spikes in their utility bills after AMI meter installations, leading to questions about accuracy and functionality.

Dane Bradfield, representing Lincoln County Power District, explained the current opt-out policy and associated costs. He confirmed that no one had opted out and addressed health concerns by referencing consultations with the World Health Organization and the American Cancer Society, which state that RF exposure from smart meters is low and within safety limits.

Public Works Manager Jared Brackenbury and City Clerk Brenda Northup reported they had been working with Vision Metering to address community concerns. They confirmed the meters do not contain lithium batteries and operate on frequencies similar to everyday devices such as cell phones and Wi-Fi. Brackenbury highlighted the benefits of the AMI system, including improved accuracy in monitoring peak usage times.

Council member Sean FitzSimons shared a document outlining acceptable FCC RF limits for common household items, including AMI meters. The council engaged in further discussion on meter technology, RF exposure, health concerns and national studies. No action was taken at that time.

The topic resurfaced during the Feb. 20 meeting, with multiple residents voicing concerns about smart meters. One resident advocated for an opt-out option, explaining that a family member experiences health issues they believe are linked to electromagnetic exposure. Another questioned why surrounding areas, including Pioche, Panaca and Alamo, allow opt-outs while Caliente does not. Concerns were also raised about cybersecurity risks, data privacy and reports from international health organizations classifying EMF exposure as a possible carcinogen. Others emphasized the potential effects on vulnerable populations and urged the council to reconsider opt-out availability.

In contrast, one local business owner spoke in support of the smart meters, stating they had experienced billing inaccuracies in the past and believed AMI meters would provide more consistent and accurate readings. While the council did not make an immediate decision, discussions on formalizing opt-out procedures were acknowledged as an ongoing priority.

The Feb. 20 meeting also featured a financial audit presentation by independent auditor Dan McArthur. The audit found that while the city’s financial health was improving, several procedural issues needed attention. The report noted that monthly financial statements were not consistently provided to the council, and the city’s books were not closed at the end of each month as required.

Certain budget areas exceeded their allocations, including cemetery maintenance, the Heritage Museum Fund and the Mosquito Abatement Fund. The Tree Board Fund had expenditures without an official budget. The Beautification Fund, which previously operated outside city financial controls, was corrected in July 2024. The city also faced delays in retirement contributions and room tax payments, and a required capital asset inventory had not been conducted.

Despite these challenges, the audit highlighted positive financial trends. The General Fund balance was significantly higher than projected, at $131,055 compared to the expected $55,132. The Water Utility Fund and Sewer Fund also showed increased cash balances, reflecting financial stability. The council discussed steps to address the audit findings, emphasizing improvements made over the past year while acknowledging the need for continued financial oversight. 

Both meetings covered critical city matters, with council members pledging to continue addressing financial accountability and community concerns regarding AMI meters. The next meeting of the Caliente City Council is scheduled for March 6.