Socorro ISD approves one‑year solar subscription, moves forward with phased facilities master‑plan contract

The Socorro ISD board on Wednesday approved two major facilities items: a one‑year subscription to the Texas Business Solar Program for 12 accounts across seven sites to validate projected savings, and the procurement of a comprehensive facilities consulting package with negotiated phasing and contractual protections.

Facilities Director Diana Fierro told trustees the district selected 12 accounts (seven sites including multiple high schools, the district aquatics center and administrative buildings) after modeling expected savings. "With participation in the solar program, we expect a cost reduction of approximately 26%, resulting in projected savings of about $435,000," Fierro said. The district will subscribe for one year and compare monthly bills to validate savings; if projections are not met the district may exit the program without longer obligation.

Separately, administration recommended awarding a multi‑component consulting agreement (facility condition assessment, long‑range facilities master plan, deferred maintenance and preventive‑maintenance strategy, and a demographic/enrollment study) with Parker/Parker Smith & Cooper for a total package of about $1.915 million. Trustees expressed concern about committing the full package while the district manages constrained cash flow after the bond defeat. Legal counsel Steve Blanco and staff said the contract includes a schedule of services and allows termination with notice; trustees amended the motion to direct staff to present a clear phased start schedule, purchase‑order approach and explicit out‑clauses to protect district interests before full work proceeds. The board approved the agreement subject to that clarification.