Committee reviews Solarize Kenmore, yard-mounted solar options and possible EV/transport outreach

Lake Forest Park’s Climate Action Committee discussed collaboration with neighboring Kenmore on a renewed Solarize Kenmore campaign, options for residents who cannot put panels on roofs and a proposal to host EV‑focused outreach events.

Committee members said Kenmore’s Solarize program vets contractors, asks participants to get an estimate and honors that estimate; the committee reported that 22 Lake Forest Park residents participated the last time they joined Solarize. The program also offers a home assessment to determine rooftop suitability; the committee noted tree canopy can rule out rooftop solar for some properties, so residents are exploring yard‑mounted ground arrays as an alternative.

A committee member described a recent example: a household unable to install rooftop panels instead placed a ground‑mounted system in the yard that can track the sun. The committee noted community‑scale options (community solar) and said the Climate Hub and Earth Day events would be good venues to publicize Solarize and community‑solar signups.

Members also discussed hosting an EV fair with vehicles on display to help residents evaluate options; the committee noted earlier efforts to organize EV showcases and said a local contact (Matt) is working to coordinate loaner vehicles and outreach. Tracy Cortani asked whether MetroFlex (a local on‑demand transit service) has been evaluated for ridership and possible route/hours changes; the group agreed to contact transit staff for ridership data and potential route extensions.

Ending: Committee members agreed to include Solarize materials in hub displays and to follow up with transit staff on MetroFlex ridership. They asked staff to confirm which community solar options and contractors are vetted by Kenmore’s program so the committee can advise residents.