Council approves city‑hall solar project with 0% financing offer from West Central Initiative

The New York Mills City Council voted July 8 to proceed with a rooftop solar installation for City Hall and to pursue 0% financing offered by West Central Initiative.

Ben Holson of Holson Solar presented a structural‑conscious rooftop plan that avoids puncturing the roof membrane and includes annual inspections, preventative maintenance and remote performance monitoring. Holson advised a structural analysis of the roof prior to committing funds. Cedar Walters of West Central Initiative presented a financial package showing total project cost of $111,423 and incentives totaling $104,569 (including a $60,000 Otter Tail Power POP rebate, a 30% federal ITC base credit of $33,427 and a 10% Made‑in‑America ITC of $11,142), leaving a net of $6,854. Walters estimated first‑year generation value of $833.85 and annual net savings of roughly $4,000 after maintenance; over a 30‑year panel life the analysis estimated about $120,000 in avoided energy costs. Walters said the proposed system would supply about 24% of City Hall electricity usage.

Councilman Hammond moved to proceed with Holson Solar and secure financing through West Central Initiative at 0% interest; Mayor Hetland seconded and the motion carried unanimously. Walters and Holson noted that no project funds will be allocated until a structural analysis confirms the roof can support the array; the Fire Hall or City Center building were cited as fallback locations if City Hall proves unsuitable.

Why it matters: City leaders said the near‑term cost to the city is minimal due to incentives and the WCI loan offer, and the project is projected to reduce operating electricity expenses over time. The structural analysis is the immediate next step before design approval and permitting.