In a recent government meeting, city officials discussed the allocation of funds for critical infrastructure projects, particularly focusing on the purchase of water meters and the potential for a solar array initiative. The council approved an initial allocation of $1 million from the general fund for water meters, with an additional $800,000 proposed to meet a total funding requirement of $2.01 million. The remaining $200,000 is expected to be covered by the water utility as more accurate meter readings are obtained over time.

The discussion highlighted a significant decision point for the committee, as they faced a choice between fully funding the water meter project or diverting funds to a solar array project. It was noted that the timeline for the solar array had likely passed, as the project would require extensive design and bidding processes that could not be completed in time to meet funding obligations by the end of the year.

Alder Killian raised the possibility of revisiting the solar array project in the 2025 budget planning, indicating that while it may not proceed this year, it remains a viable option for future consideration. The committee acknowledged a funding gap of approximately $450,000 for the solar project, complicating its immediate feasibility.

The meeting also addressed the urgency of ensuring that all allocated funds are spent by the end of the year, with plans to strategize on unspent projects. Additionally, a grant award of $498,482 for an Urban Forestry project was mentioned, although further discussion on this item was postponed.

The committee ultimately moved forward with a motion to allocate the full $800,000 for the water meters, emphasizing the importance of timely procurement to meet regulatory requirements. The decision reflects a commitment to enhancing the city’s water infrastructure while keeping future sustainability projects in consideration for upcoming budgets.