Greenwich Budget Committee approves solar PPA for Cohen Center amid concerns

On February 24, 2025, the Greenwich Board of Estimate and Taxation (BET) convened to discuss several key financial matters impacting the town, including the annual budget process, a proposed amendment to the Greenwich Retirement Board Charter, and the Green Skies solar project contract.

The meeting began with a review of the controller's report, highlighting the ongoing budget process. Controller Mr. Manorski noted that consolidation day was scheduled for the following day, with decision day set for the next week. The BET members expressed gratitude for the hard work of the budget team, acknowledging the complexities involved in the budget preparation.

A significant topic of discussion was the amendment proposed by the Greenwich Retirement Board regarding retiree hiring. After deliberation, the amendment was approved with a vote of 11-1-0, indicating strong support among the board members.

The conversation then shifted to the Green Skies solar project, which has been a point of contention due to concerns about the contractual obligations involved. Members debated the merits of entering into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) versus outright purchasing the solar panels. Some members expressed urgency in moving forward with the PPA to secure a favorable rate of 6.7 cents per kilowatt hour, while others raised concerns about potential risks and the need for further review of the contract's terms, particularly regarding indemnification and maintenance responsibilities.

Ultimately, a motion was made to support the use of a PPA for the solar panels at the Cohen Center, which passed with a vote of 11-1-0. This decision reflects the board's recognition of the financial benefits associated with the project, despite the ongoing discussions about its implications.

In addition to these primary topics, the BET also addressed a request to convert a part-time zoning enforcement position to full-time. The Human Resources Committee reported that while there was no immediate financial impact on the current budget, the department could absorb the costs within its existing budget.

The meeting concluded with a sense of progress on several fronts, although the discussions surrounding the Green Skies project highlighted the complexities and differing opinions that often accompany significant financial decisions in local government. As the BET continues to navigate these issues, the outcomes of their decisions will likely have lasting effects on the town's financial health and sustainability initiatives.