Selectmen approve letter of intent to study solar panels at Deep River Elementary

First Selectman Carol Jones said the board voted on June 9 to move forward with a letter of intent to begin analysis for installing solar panels at Deep River Elementary School, a proposal tied to the Solar Energy Green Bank Program.

The board’s discussion referenced a prior presentation by Sustainable Deep River identifying Deep River Elementary School as the building best suited for solar-panel installation. Selectman Duane Gates raised concerns about who would be responsible for future roof repairs if panels were installed. Selectman Cynthia Torres expressed concern about potential future repurposing of the school building and how that might affect a long-term solar installation. The motion to proceed with a letter of intent was made and seconded at the meeting and was contingent on review by the Town Attorney.

The motion, recorded in the minutes, was moved, seconded and approved with a 2-1 vote. The board recorded the approval as a conditional step to continue evaluation, not as an approval of any construction or contract. The next steps are legal review by the Town Attorney and a focused roof analysis to determine feasibility, costs, and any conditions that would protect the town from unanticipated repair liabilities.

No direct quotes were recorded in the meeting minutes for the discussion; the record documents positions and concerns summarized above. The action does not authorize construction or commit funding; it authorizes only the preparation of a letter of intent and further evaluation.