Humboldt approves scaled-back solar array for water plant, contingent on insurance

City Administrator Cole Herder told the Humboldt City Council on May 11 that the city would move forward with a scaled-back solar installation limited to the municipal water plant, but that the project remains contingent on obtaining insurance coverage.

Herder said the revised plan calls for a 124-panel system using 580-watt panels and that installation would start before July 4, 2026. He told the council he was "having trouble getting insurance approved for this project," and asked the body to approve the scaled-back scope with the understanding the project would be reconsidered if insurance could not be obtained.

Councilmember Lassman moved to approve the project on that contingency, and Councilmember Johnson seconded. The motion "carried unanimously," the council minutes show.

Why it matters: the measure narrows the initial proposal to reduce upfront scope and risk while preserving the city uthority to pursue solar on municipal infrastructure. The council did not set a construction contract award or funding details in the discussion recorded in the minutes; Herder framed the decision as a direction to proceed subject to insurance availability.

Next steps: city staff will proceed with procurement and scheduling under the approved scope and will return the item for reconsideration if the insurance requirement cannot be satisfied.