During a recent government meeting, a council member raised concerns about a troubling encounter with a solicitor posing as a representative from Swepco, a local utility company. The incident, which occurred at the member's home, involved an individual dressed in official attire who attempted to sell solar panels under the guise of addressing an electricity issue.
The council member recounted the experience, emphasizing the importance of public awareness regarding such deceptive practices. They expressed frustration over the increasing prevalence of scams, particularly those that involve door-to-door solicitations. The member urged local authorities to take action to protect citizens from potential fraud, highlighting the vulnerability of residents who may not be as discerning.
In response to the situation, the council member reminded attendees that there is an existing ordinance that allows residents to report unauthorized solicitors to law enforcement. They encouraged citizens to utilize this resource to safeguard themselves against scams and to ensure that all solicitors are properly registered.
The meeting underscored the need for community vigilance and the importance of informing residents about their rights and available protections against fraudulent activities. The council member's call to action serves as a reminder for local authorities to enhance public awareness and support measures that can help prevent such incidents in the future.