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Select Board accepts community resiliency grant to add battery backups and a battery‑lending program
Summary
The Select Board accepted a Community Action Grant of approximately $68,500 to install battery backup at the municipal building (warming/cooling center) and to create a battery‑lending program; staff will manage procurement and build a fire‑rated battery room.
The Newcastle Select Board voted May 27 to accept a Community Action Grant tied to the Community Resiliency Partnership to support a battery backup for the town office and a battery‑lending program for residents who lose power.
Town manager Kevin explained the original $75,000 request was partially reduced; the awarded amount (about $68,500) will fund a battery backup system for the municipal building to allow it to operate as a warming and cooling shelter, a small battery‑lending program to keep essential appliances running in homes during outages, and public outreach materials. He said staff have already begun procurement steps and will construct a fire‑rated battery room in the building’s basement with the appropriate drywall and safety systems.
A motion to accept the award and authorize the town official to sign the award confirmation passed without recorded dissent. Staff said the town’s grant manager will oversee implementation, including battery procurement and outreach.
