Wahpeton council approves $10,500 solar design work for water plant despite resident concerns

The Wahpeton City Council on Oct. 13 approved a $10,500 Solar Services Agreement to draft plans and specifications for solar infrastructure at the Wahpeton Water Plant, with the motion passing 4–1. Councilmember Brad Jones moved the item and Merlyn Kruger seconded; Rosalise Olson cast the lone dissent, saying residents had told her they did not want additional expense added to the Water Plant Project.

City Clerk/Administrator Carrie Funk reported that the Iowa Department of Natural Resources is actively reviewing the Water Plant Expansion Project construction application. Funk said state revolving fund loans are currently offering interest near 3.12 percent and that Water Superintendent/Public Works Darin Peterson and colleague Berning are working with neighboring residents to secure construction easements for the project.

Council approved the Solar Services Agreement to produce the plans and specifications needed to evaluate and potentially integrate solar into the water plant design. The agreement covers drafting work only; no contract for construction was approved at the meeting.

Olson, in voting no, cited constituent concerns about additional expenditures tied to the Water Plant Project. The minutes record her objection but do not quote residents directly or provide alternate costing estimates. No amendment or substitute motion was offered; the council moved forward with the design-phase work.

Peterson later reported to the council that staff continue to work with HR Green on project administration and with nearby property owners on easements needed for construction. Funk said the council will receive additional project updates as permitting and financing progress.

The council scheduled further related business for upcoming meetings; no construction contract or final financing decision was made Oct. 13.