A proposal for funding the installation of a future solar array on the municipal building is among the warrant articles Wiscasset voters will consider at the June 14 election.

The solar-related question is article 66 on a lengthy warrant that includes amendments allowing non-residents to serve in a non-voting capacity on the airport and waterfront committees. It also includes a non-binding question on the Maine Department of Transportation’s proposed downtown traffic improvements.

Voters are asked to raise and appropriate $81,150 for the solar project. The monies are to be held in escrow for a seventh year buyout authorizing selectmen to enter into an agreement for construction of the solar array.

The article was in response to efforts by the Wiscasset Sun CATs. Revision Energy of Liberty made several presentations for installing the solar arrays on roofs of both the municipal building and town garage detailing the costs and benefits. A second proposal was received from Sundog Solar of Searsport.

Marty Fox, co-chairman of the Wiscasset Sun CATs, said selectmen opted to ask for all the funds up front rather than at the end of the sixth year.

In an email to the newspaper, Fox said that for municipalities to take advantage of the Federal Solar Tax Credit they would need to enter into a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).  

“Through a PPA, a for-profit organization (for example, the solar installer) would own, operate, and maintain the solar installation for the municipality. After six years, the municipality may purchase the solar project from the for-profit organization,” he stated.  

The town would purchase the solar project for about half the initial installation cost after six years, estimated at $81,150 according to Fox. “For the first six years, the municipality would purchase electricity from the for-profit organization (the solar company).” After that the town would own the solar array.

He added the cost savings would be approximately $280,000 over the 40-year life of the system as calculated by a solar company.

Fox added there have been questions regarding how the failure of the State Solar Bill LD1649 affects Wiscasset if article 66 passes. He said the article gives selectmen authority to raise the funds and proceed with the solar project, but does not require them to proceed immediately or set a deadline when they should begin.

He told selectmen at their May 31 meeting they could hold off going forward with the project until the PUC decides what to do about net metering.

The Select Board voted 3-2 against recommending the solar article, although the budget committee voted 4-2 in favor of it.

MDOT options weighed

Voters are asked to pick between three MDOT downtown traffic proposals. Both Options 1 and 2 call for the installation of two traffic lights. The Main Street sidewalks would be widened to comply with ADA standards and pedestrians directed to use one of only two crosswalks on the corners of Middle and Water streets where the signals will be installed.

Southbound traffic leaving the Davey Bridge would no longer be permitted to make a left turn onto Water Street, although the street would remain open to two-way traffic. Other amenities include benches, landscaping, lampposts and improved directional signage­, all paid for by MDOT.

MDOT also plans to pave Railroad Street, construct an asphalt sidewalk there and a 26-space parking lot that will include two parking spaces for tour buses. Additional parking will also be added alongside the Creamery Pier.

Option 1 reduces parking on Main Street and includes the addition of removable bollards down the center of the street. Option 2, the proposal recommended by MDOT, eliminates all parking on Main Street.

A number of downtown merchants fear eliminating Main Street parking would have a negative impact on businesses and make deliveries more difficult. Other business owners think the improvements will attract more shoppers.

Voters can also choose Option 3 and leave the downtown as it is.

Selectmen will make their recommendation to MDOT based on the outcome of the referendum. The state will pay for all the engineering and construction costs estimated at $4 million to $5 million. Construction would begin in 2017.

Should non-residents serve?

If Articles 70 and 71 are passed, one non-resident each will be permitted to serve on the airport and waterfront committees. The non-resident members will have no voting privileges.

Both committees serve in an advisory capacity and are appointed by selectmen. The issue arose when it was learned the ordinances did not permit non-residents on either committee. Two non-residents had been appointed. 

Voters will also elect selectmen, school committee, water district trustees and budget committee representatives. New voters can register at the polls the day of the election.