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Great River Hydro asks Hinsdale to explore pilot tax-stability agreement ahead of revaluation
Summary
Representatives from Great River Hydro described generation variability tied to river flows and drought, and proposed exploring a pilot agreement with Hinsdale to stabilize property-tax revenue for both the company and the town as the revaluation year approaches.
Representatives of Great River Hydro briefed the Hinsdale Select Board on June 29 and asked the town to consider exploring a pilot agreement intended to stabilize property-tax revenue amid generation variability.
Jocelyne Barrett, introduced as senior property tax specialist, and Brandon Kibbe, vice president of external affairs, described Great River Hydro as an independent power producer operating multiple conventional hydropower stations and storage reservoirs across New England. The company outlined how seasonal flows, winter thaws and the 2023 drought affected generation and historical property-tax payments tied to its Vernon Station and other assets.
Barrett and Kibbe said a pilot agreement could provide tax-revenue stability for the town and predictability for Great River Hydro, and that a discussion timed with the approaching revaluation year could be an appropriate starting point. Town Administrator Kathryn Lynch said she viewed the presentation as "a great start to a conversation coming into the reevaluation year," and the board agreed it was worth further discussion as revaluation approaches.
No formal proposal or vote was taken at the meeting; the company said it was open to beginning talks whenever it would be convenient for town staff and officials. The Select Board did not commit to terms or a timetable but directed staff to keep the item on the radar as the revaluation proceeds.
