During a recent meeting of the Sweetwater Authority Board, significant concerns were raised regarding the proposed floating solar farm project. Charlina Storano, a local resident, expressed her discontent over what she described as a lack of transparency from the board. She highlighted discrepancies in the project's scale, revealing that initial estimates of a 3.75 megawatt project covering 9.5 acres were misleading. Through a Freedom of Information Act request, she discovered that board members had lobbied for an 80 megawatt project that would actually cover nearly 200 acres, a revelation she deemed a \"monumental discrepancy.\"

Storano emphasized the importance of clear and accurate communication from the board, stating that the current lack of transparency undermines public trust. She warned that if the project proceeds without addressing these concerns, community members may pursue accountability measures, including a potential recall of board members.

In contrast, Rita Clement, a volunteer with San Diego 350, voiced her support for the floating solar initiative. She proposed that the Sweetwater Authority implement a performance guarantee to ensure the project meets its energy production targets. Clement noted that without such guarantees, public agencies could face significant drops in energy output, leading to financial losses despite having locked in power purchase agreements.

The discussions reflect a growing divide among community members regarding the floating solar project, with calls for greater accountability and assurances of performance from the Sweetwater Authority.