There are full page ads on opposite pages in one of the local papers. In one, the mayor defends the meters. In the other, an anonymous group of merchants says they’ll drive away business.
I don’t think it’s contrary to halacha to piggyback on an unexpired non-smart meter, but I’ve never asked a shaila about it. I usually do my shopping when the meters aren’t in effect.
A related question: I had a muni-meter ticket that had a lot of time left on it (I went to the DMV and expected the worst). As I was leaving my spot, I offered the ticket to a non-Jew. He expressed his gratitude. Was my act a kiddush Hashem, or was it assur?