ISD 200 School Board approves solar projects and polling locations for November election

Hastings Public School District has taken a significant step towards sustainability by approving a solar contract that promises substantial long-term savings and educational benefits. During the ISD 200 Regular School Board Meeting on March 26, 2025, the board unanimously approved the installation of two solar arrays at Hastings High School and Kennedy Elementary, backed by a $675,000 grant from Minnesota's Department of Commerce.

The solar project, which has been in development for some time, will incur no upfront costs for the district. It is expected to generate approximately $60,000 in savings during the first year, with cumulative savings projected to reach $1.6 million by year 20 and $5.5 million by year 40. The contract includes a 20-year operation and maintenance agreement, ensuring the systems remain functional and efficient over their projected 40-year lifespan. Additionally, the project will feature an educational component, with Ideal Energies providing materials and a live online monitoring platform to showcase the solar arrays' performance.

In other business, the board approved five polling locations for the upcoming special election in November, maintaining consistency with previous elections to reduce voter confusion. They also moved forward with interviews for seven candidates vying for a board member appointment, demonstrating a commitment to community engagement and representation.

The board addressed concerns regarding the Minnesota State student survey, deciding to provide parents with a link to the survey in advance, allowing them to opt out if desired. This decision reflects the board's sensitivity to parental trust and student well-being, particularly regarding sensitive topics included in the survey.

Looking ahead, the board has scheduled several meetings, including a joint powers meeting and community engagement sessions, to foster ongoing dialogue with stakeholders. The proactive measures taken during this meeting highlight the district's dedication to sustainability, transparency, and community involvement.