Smart meters present even more concerns for Biddeford

Here is what I gathered from the city council meeting on May 6:

Smart parking meters are clearly a revenue-generating, wireless device, with a wide-ranging variety of functions, including taking pictures of your automobile’s license plate (which could be an ACLU issue) and forwarding this information to the Biddeford Police Department and to City Hall. Restaurants could post their menus on these devices, but businesses historically streamline their operation. They avoid complications and confusion that will drive potential customers away. After all, their bottom line is to maximize profits and be customer friendly . Word on the street is, these parking meters will drive potential customers away.

Implementation was quickly side-stepped and the only response was “web browser in city hall.” No comment from the city’s IT director yet.

Pricing will be a delicate balancing issue. Price it too high and potential shoppers will stay away (this will defeat our growth management plan). Price it too low, and desired revenues will not be realized.

As for payment, all major credit cards (soon to be with pin numbers only), will be accepted. Coins will be OK, but no cash/paper money. Too many problems with paper money.

Revenues, fees and violations will be a 50/50 split with this meter company and the City of Biddeford.

Graffiti will be dealt with as specified in the city ordinance.

The meters are manufactured in Minnesota. They are water tight, and expected to withstand harsh Maine winters.

If I missed anything, (and I’m sure I did) it is due to the horrible technical difficulties experienced on public access. Actually, it was more of what started Monday, May 5 at the public hearing on the municipal budget. Those of us watching said someone must have realized what a bad idea this is to install parking meters in the greater downtown.

Parking meter referendum petitioners have requested equal time to inform/educate voters on the downside of these high- tech devices, but actually, this presentation may have done it for us.

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