Council hears TextMyGov proposal for opt-in townwide messaging; staff to return with contract clarifications

Town staff presented a TextMyGov proposal for an opt-in community text-messaging service intended for public-safety alerts and community engagement. Staff described it as an opt-in system that can be segmented by lists (utilities, parks and rec, public safety), with an annual baseline allowance of 50,000 messages and an estimated cost near $5,000 per year for the town’s expected usage.

Councilors pressed for details on contract length and overage pricing and whether the service could be procured for a one-year trial. Staff said they would clarify contract terms and overage unit pricing and return to the council at the next meeting. The presenter summarized the capability: “This is just a text message service that, our community would opt into, and we would set up whatever kind of list that we wanted.” No purchase contract was signed tonight; council asked staff to return with clarified pricing and sample opt-in rates.