Commissioner questions DECA solar panel project's benefits for transitional housing

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners met on July 14, 2025, to discuss budget deliberations, focusing on the proposed DECA transitional housing solar panel project. The project aims to install solar panels on five all-electric housing units, but significant concerns were raised regarding its feasibility and funding sources.

One commissioner expressed skepticism about the project's potential benefits, questioning how the installation of only two solar panels per unit could provide adequate energy coverage, especially during winter conditions. The commissioner highlighted personal experience with solar energy, noting that even with a larger system of 42 panels, the net metering policies in Kansas do not yield optimal results. This raises doubts about the economic and environmental advantages of the proposed solar panel installation.

Concerns were also voiced about the funding for the project, which was suggested to come from the mental health fund. The commissioner argued that the project should instead be financed through general funds, emphasizing the need for competitive bidding processes to ensure cost-effectiveness. The discussion included a call for more detailed information regarding the solar panel system's expected energy output and the overall financial implications.

The meeting concluded with a consensus among some commissioners that further investigation into the project's viability and funding sources is necessary before proceeding. The board's deliberations reflect a cautious approach to budget allocations, particularly when it comes to projects that may not deliver clear benefits to the community.