Assembly approves contract for procurement and transport of solar modules, members ask procurement questions

The Northwest Arctic Borough Assembly on Dec. 18 approved Resolution 24-50, authorizing a contract with Alaska Native Renewable Industries for procurement and transport of solar photovoltaic (PV) modules intended for borough projects.

Director Clara Johnson summarized the resolution and recommended approval. During discussion, Member Walter Sampson asked whether there were any issues with the contract, and Member Lincoln Carr asked who the company is. Member Craig McConnell raised procurement concerns, questioning a waiver and asking why the borough would not buy modules directly instead of using an intermediary contractor. Member Magdanz asked whether the borough would own the modules and how storage would be handled, noting questions about FOB (free on board) Kotzebue and whether shipping to Selawik should follow a cost assessment.

Member Derek Haviland Lie moved to approve Resolution 24-50; Member Lincoln Carr seconded. The motion passed unanimously by roll call vote. The assembly asked staff to complete a cost assessment on shipping options and to clarify ownership and storage plans for delivered modules.

The vote followed brief debate over procurement approach and logistics. No audience comments were presented. Mayor Dickie Moto provided a separate update on village water and sewer outages and staffing actions later in the meeting.

The assembly adjourned at 2:09 P.M.; members signaled intent to follow up on logistics and vendor details at upcoming meetings and the planned retreat.