Dallas council authorizes option for potential solar array on James Howe Road

The Dallas City Council on Nov. 3 unanimously authorized the city manager to sign an amended option-to-lease giving Oregon Clean Power Cooperative two years to complete due diligence and pursue Pacific Power’s local renewable procurement for a potential solar array on city-owned property off James Howe Road.

City manager Emily told the council the cooperative requested site access for surveys and environmental work and that the agreement is limited to an option period; any lease or development would require a separate council approval. Dan Wojciech, general manager of the cooperative, said Pacific Power’s procurement timetable — with a request-for-proposals deadline in early December and selections expected by February — drives the schedule and that the cooperative would return with a lease proposal if the utility selects the site.

The council’s discussion focused on safeguarding the city’s preexisting plans for a finished water tank and a possible reservoir on the same parcel, and on minimizing visual and infrastructure impacts near developing residential areas. Staff said the city purchased the property in 2020 for a water tank; the manager and council repeatedly prioritized the water‑system project if the two uses conflict. Wojciech described siting constraints (state rules and zoning limit solar on certain lands) and said access to nearby distribution lines would likely require upgrades, typically above-ground poles rather than underground lines.

Wojciech also described the cooperative’s community-funding model: local and statewide community members may invest in projects and receive credits on their electric bills rather than the city underwriting installation costs. Councilors noted an earlier draft of the option had included language promising $10,000 a year for local nonprofit support; the city attorney removed that language and Wojciech said payments and lease terms would be negotiated if the project advances.

The option agreement on the table provides a two-year due-diligence period with a one-year extension available; Wojciech said the cooperative expects Pacific Power’s decision in February and, if selected, hopes to be under construction by the end of next year, subject to equipment and permitting timelines.

Councilor Shane moved to authorize the city manager to sign the amended option-to-lease; Councilor Spivey seconded. The council voted aye and the motion passed unanimously.

The council’s action authorizes the city to allow the cooperative to pursue the utility procurement process but does not approve any lease, construction, or payment terms; those would return to council for separate approval.