2016.05.16 CC Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Hugo City Council Meeting Minutes for May 16, 2016 Page 6of8 where Leitz spoke to the Council about a solar subscription RFP through the Met Council that the City joined in 2015. She stated that the City had been paired with Geronimo Energy and given the opportunity to subscribe to a solar garden. In return, the City would receive a bill credit on its energy bill. The Council had questions regarding the contract and other background information on the company. Staff had provided the Council with supplemental information on the solar subscription, including the contract, and asked Council for feedback on whether the City should continue to move forward and subscribe to the garden. Leitz explained that the solar subscription was for just the Met Council RFP lottery results, 38%of total use, but the City could negotiate a subscription for another solar farm that Geronimo is proposing for up to 100%. Any contract would need to be evaluated further by the City Attorney if the response is to continue through the process. Petryk said she could see no negative side of solar energy. She noted the infrastructure would be in Scandia. Leitz added that the site was an old gravel pit and the solar farm in that location is being accepted by the City and residents of Scandia. Miron asked if we would just go back to the regular rate if solar was no longer available. Leitz confirmed that was correct. Klein stated he could see no reason to not move forward and wondered if there was a way to offer solar to the rest of the City. Leitz responded that the solar companies look to get 75% from large organizations then will offer it to other parties. Weidt stated he was comfortable with the RFP results to use solar energy for 38% of the City's total use. Weidt made motion, Petryk seconded to direct staff to move forward with contract negotiations with Geronimo. All Ayes. Motion carried. Update on the Yellow Ribbon Network Council Member Phil Klein updated Council on the City of Hugo's Yellow Ribbon Network activities. The YRN will provide funds and volunteers for a family day luncheon. They supported a Hugo sailor and family during a deployment to Afghanistan along with Stillwater Motors, who provided them Twins tickets. The YRN was able to locate a Doula for a military wife while her husband is deployed. A Hugo family is looking for child care for the summer. Marilyn Stromberg and Barb Connelly purchased items for marriage retreat baskets, and Dunn Brothers donated coffee. The YRN provided postage to mail pillows. Refreshments were provide at a family day event. Funds were spent on hotel and transportation for a wife whose husband was having surgery and the daughter is deployed. Washington County Sheriff's Department donated wish list items for soldiers in Kuwait. The YRN is supporting Military kids to attend National Guard Camp this summer. Planning has begun for the 15th Welcome Home Pheasant Hunt.