Matthews Town Council discusses potential solar street lights and park maintenance strategies

The recent Board of Commissioners meeting in Matthews, Union County, highlighted significant discussions regarding the potential implementation of solar street lights and the future of parks maintenance in the community.

During the meeting, officials revisited the idea of solar street lights, which had been considered in the past but lacked a proven track record. However, a recent installation of solar technology to illuminate the welcome sign at the intersection of Weddington and Pleasant Plains has shown promising results. This success has prompted interest in a new development on John Street, where solar lights are being considered as a test case for their effectiveness in the area.

The conversation also touched on the complexities of integrating solar technology with existing power grids. Officials noted that while new installations could be owned by the town, they would require ongoing maintenance and service, raising questions about the feasibility of fully transitioning to solar energy for street lighting.

Another key topic was the maintenance of parks, which is not currently included in the budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Town officials indicated that while they are a couple of years away from expanding parks maintenance staff, they are actively developing a comprehensive maintenance plan. This plan will assess the needs of various parks and determine whether to create a dedicated parks maintenance department or expand the existing public works team.

As the town looks ahead, the discussions from this meeting reflect a commitment to exploring sustainable solutions and enhancing community spaces, aligning with broader goals for environmental responsibility and improved public amenities. The outcomes of these discussions will be crucial as Matthews continues to grow and evolve in the coming years.