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Council advances ordinances, solar power deal and routine appointments
Summary
The council adopted an amendment creating a drop-off zone on Washington Street, approved a 20-year power purchase agreement for a Low Street solar array expected to save about $12,000 annually, and moved a slate of appointments and event permits on the consent agenda.
The Newburyport City Council on April 20 approved a package of routine and policy items, including the second-reading adoption of Ordinance 216 (an amendment to the drop-off zone on Washington Street), a 20-year power-purchase agreement for a Low Street solar array, and numerous appointments and event permits on the consent agenda.
Ordinance 216 passed on second reading by roll call with an 11–0 recorded vote, amending Chapter 13, Section 171.1 to establish the Washington Street drop-off zone as drafted. Councilors said the change corrects a missing codification for that handicap space.
In General Government, the council approved Order 820, a 20-year agreement with Select (procured via PowerOptions) for installation, operation, and maintenance of a municipal solar array. Committee members cited state and federal incentives and procurement review; Molly Edenber, director present in committee, said the array is expected to deliver about $12,000 in annual savings. Committee members and legal reviewers recommended the contract.
On the consent agenda the council approved multiple items including minutes, communications, community appointments (several to the Harbor Commission, Housing Authority, Water & Sewer alternate, and other boards), outdoor seating and parklet applications, and the Flag Day 5K event permit. A previously continued transfer request for Plumber Springs Bridge was received and filed after staff confirmed existing funds covered needed change orders.
What’s next: Committees will continue to refine parklet rules, planning will hold a joint public hearing on ordinances affecting discretionary ZBA review and the downtown overlay, and the city will post schedules for upcoming budget hearings and water/sewer rate discussions.
