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Commissioners discuss energy-audit outreach, PUC-driven Eversource upgrades and warming center progress
Summary
Commissioners heard an update that concrete footings and wall forms are in place at the warming center and discussed outreach from firms offering energy audits; Chair noted the Public Utilities Commission has required Eversource to strengthen distribution infrastructure, and the board agreed to invite audit firms to a future meeting.
The Strafford County Board received two operational updates July 16: a construction progress report on the warming center and an exploratory discussion about energy audits and regional utility upgrades.
Chair described the warming center site work: concrete footings have been tested, forms for the poured concrete walls are in place, and the contractor (Hutter) "say that they're gonna try to be on time," a development the chair characterized as encouraging. Staff circulated a demographics report on shelter use to municipal leaders and the board confirmed those materials were shared with mayors and city managers.
On energy planning, the chair said several vendors have expressed interest in performing energy audits for county properties and suggested the board invite those firms to present in the next one-to-two weeks. He also noted the state Public Utilities Commission has required Eversource to strengthen distribution infrastructure for growing demand, which affects the county's potential capital plans: "Eversource ... the PUC has required Eversource to try to strengthen their existing infrastructure," the chair said.
Why it matters: energy audits could identify capital investments or utility partnerships that reduce operating costs at county facilities; warming center construction is progressing and will affect shelter operations.
Commissioners agreed staff should schedule vendor briefings so the board can evaluate options and potential capital costs, and the chair said he will report back after an upcoming Zoom call with a resource about available assistance.
