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Town staff says state approved DEP permit for solar project; residents ask about electric rates and turnover
Summary
Town staff reported a state approval of the DEP permit for a local solar project and told the board that formal negotiations on the project will be with Teichos. Residents asked whether the town has negotiated electric rates and raised concerns about staff turnover and training.
Christopher Littlefield, listed in the minutes as town staff, told the Board of Selectmen on May 5 that the Department of Environmental Protection permit for the town’s solar project had been approved by the state.
At the public forum resident Neal Greenberg asked whether the DEP permit had been approved; Littlefield confirmed that it had. Greenberg also asked whether the town had engaged in negotiations on electric rates; Littlefield said no detailed discussions had taken place yet.
Selectman John Hikel said he had discussed benefits to Hartland with Elizabeth Swain. Littlefield clarified that any formal negotiations on the project will be with Teichos rather than with Elizabeth Swain or her firm, as recorded in the minutes.
Resident Margaret Greenberg asked why staff turnover has been high; Littlefield said three staff members are expected to retire in 2025. Margaret also asked what 'MOLO' means; Littlefield explained it stands for 'Manager of Landfill Operations.' The minutes do not provide additional detail about the DEP permit conditions, the scope or timing of rate negotiations, or terms of any agreement with Teichos.
The board recorded these updates and moved on to other business; no vote or formal direction on rate negotiations or the solar contract is recorded in the minutes.
