All Madison, WI homeowners should have heard of Project H2O by now, in which Madison Water Utility is requiring all homeowners install a new "smart" metering device. The program is supposed to reduce costs by eliminating the need for manual water meter readings, but let's face it, Project H2O is really about allowing the Utility to collect its payments sooner. One side benefit is that we will receive a monthly water bill instead of one every 6 months.
The smart metering device has been the subject of controversy over health concerns of having an always-on device in the basement transmitting radio-frequency radiation. You can read about it more here: Wisconsin State Journal: City officials insist new water meters are safe after concerns (June 19, 2012).
Two options were given to opt-out of the new smart metering device, although in reality getting charged a monthly penalty fee for opting out should not be considered an option. Instead, I opted for the one-time $50.69 fee to have the smart meter installed on the outside of my home. I did this out of peace of mind as well as principle; if all of my other utility meters are on the outside of my home, why not this one as well?
Homeowners, here is the opt-out form if you need it.
http://www.cityofmadison.com/water/programs/projectH2O/Opt-Out.cfm
