Board Discusses Solar Project Details and Gas Cap Repeal Proposal

The Tunkhannock Area School District (TASD) School Board convened on August 14, 2025, to address several key issues, including solar project financing and the potential repeal of a gas cap for busing contractors.

The meeting began with a discussion on the need for a committee meeting to review the financial aspects of a significant solar project, estimated at $5 million. Board members expressed the importance of ensuring all members understand the financial implications before voting. One member emphasized that this project could lead to substantial savings, as the district currently spends about $1 million annually on electricity. The consensus was that while a committee meeting was not necessary, it was crucial for board members to be well-informed about the solar financing details prior to any decision.

Following this, the board moved on to unfinished business regarding the gas cap for busing contractors. The gas cap, which had been established during a period of high fuel prices, set limits at $4 per gallon for gasoline and $5 for diesel. However, current fuel prices are significantly lower, with gasoline at approximately $2.19 per gallon and diesel at $2.77 per gallon. Given that the district has not needed to utilize the gas cap for several years, the board discussed the possibility of repealing it.

After deliberation, board members agreed that maintaining the gas cap was unnecessary and could lead to ongoing discussions without any current relevance. A motion was made to repeal the gas cap, which received unanimous support from the board.

In conclusion, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to transparency regarding financial decisions, particularly concerning the solar project, and streamlined operations by removing outdated policies like the gas cap. The board will continue to monitor fuel prices and revisit the gas cap if necessary in the future.