Council seeks more information on potential solar project

By Greta Foss

Summer Intern

The New York Mills City council met with Griffen Peck of West Central Initiative and Ben Holsen of Holsen Solar about the proposed solar energy project at their regular scheduled meeting on Tuesday June 9. 

The project would install a roof mounted solar energy system to the New York Mills City Center. This would help to lower energy costs as well as reducing the environmental footprint of the building. 

The upfront cost of the project would be $109,585, but two incentives are available to be provided, the Otter Tail Power POP Rebate for $54,793 and the IRS 30 percent ITC Base credit for $32,876. The toal balance of incentives is $87,849, this leaves a balance of $21,917. 

This project should save the city an estimated $4,400 per year, and upon completion should be cashflow positive in four years and 11 months. Over the course of the project lifetime it is estimated that this will save the city $129,403 in utility bills, and the array will produce $151,320 worth of energy over its lifetime. 

Members of the council, as well as Public Works Superintendent Kyle Mattson requested to see an updated footprint of the array as well for Holsen Solar to get into contact with the engineer of the building so as to ensure the safety of the project as well as building longevity. 

The resolution was tabled until the next meeting so as to give the company time to provide the requested information. 

Peck raised the point that both the POP program and the 30 percent tax credit will no longer be available in early 2027. 

Liquor store report

The combined gross sales for the month of May were up five percent from previous year. The combined cost of goods sold were up by .48 percent as a percentage of sales from last year. Net Revenues were flat as a percentage of sales from prior year. They reported that they are currently looking to hire a new part time employee. 

Police report

In the month of May, there were 161 calls for service, two citations, no parking tickets, and two arrests. 

Fire monthly report

There were 26 calls to the Fire Department in the month of May; 19 medical calls, 5 fire, 1 MVA, and 1 Gas leak.

Public Works

The Public Works department has been working to prepare for summer activities, such as beginning to heat the pool, pouring concrete at the three walking trail shelters, and installing solar powered string lights for those who enjoy an evening walk.