In a recent government meeting, officials discussed a significant funding opportunity that could lead to a $34 million project for the town of Blaine, with the potential for no financial burden on the county. The proposal includes a 5% match requirement, which would amount to approximately $1.65 million, necessary for moving forward with applications for tax credits related to solar and geothermal energy projects.

Troy Taylor, a CPA from Forbes Lazarus, provided insights into the eligibility for tax credits, indicating that the county could receive approximately $2.03 million back from the project costs. This figure does not include contingencies, which could further increase the total reimbursement to around $2.5 million. The timeline for receiving these credits is estimated to be between 90 to 120 days after application submission.

The discussions highlighted the importance of these projects for local schools, particularly in light of the needs identified in Tier 1 counties. Officials emphasized that the funding would not impose additional costs on taxpayers, as the credits would effectively repurpose funds for further development without increasing the financial burden on the community.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous vote in favor of proceeding with the application process, reflecting a strong commitment to enhancing local infrastructure while ensuring fiscal responsibility. Further updates on the project and its implications for the community are anticipated in the coming months.