0:00The most discussion centered around a change order request from the vendor Rise, which the committee had delayed acting upon, potentially jeopardizing eligibility for an upcoming grant in the spring. The committee member responsible for following up on the request noted the absence of a response for an entire week, highlighting this delay’s impact on securing vital funding. The urgency of ensuring the work’s completion in time was emphasized, as it was necessary to qualify for grant funding. This incident underscored the ongoing challenges the committee faces in navigating administrative processes efficiently, as well as the importance of timely decision-making to avoid losing out on financial incentives.

The committee also addressed a missed opportunity from the past where the town failed to secure a $16,000 incentive due to not signing a contract on time. The member expressed frustration at the lack of proactive engagement in such opportunities.

The effectiveness of communication with utility contractors was a recurring theme throughout the meeting. One member expressed difficulty in identifying the correct contact at National Grid, highlighting inefficiencies in the committee’s communication processes. They speculated whether the workload of Kelly Brown, the contact person, might be a contributing factor to these issues.

Additionally, the discussion transitioned to the installation of municipal LED lights, with the town having agreed to cover part of the costs. Despite progress in this project, it was noted that the Green Communities Program no longer provides funding for such installations, as its focus has shifted to schools. The committee reflected on this shift, acknowledging the additional challenges it presents in securing funding for energy efficiency projects in public buildings.

15:19Another topic of interest was the review of energy savings data, particularly concerning street lights. The committee highlighted a significant savings of $62,000 over five years despite an initial $500 expenditure. However, discrepancies in savings calculations were debated, with some questioning the methodology used in comparing costs from 2018 and 2019. This led to a broader discussion on the need for accurate data analysis to ensure meaningful assessments of energy efficiency initiatives.

The committee also explored issues related to gas usage, noting an increase despite recent improvements in insulation and air sealing. Concerns were raised about behavioral factors, such as residents possibly adjusting thermostats higher due to improved insulation, which could negate expected energy savings. This discussion highlighted the importance of effective energy monitoring and accountability in managing consumption across town facilities.

29:38The meeting also covered the topic of community aggregation, with members discussing the newly communicated options for electric supply to residents. The committee noted three available plans, including a 100% renewable energy option, which was surprisingly close in cost to the other plans. This sparked interest among members, prompting discussions on the potential benefits of switching to more sustainable energy sources.

Finally, the committee expressed concerns about the installation of new outdoor lights at Spalding School, questioning whether they complied with the General Bylaw’s requirement for full cutoff lights. Members planned to investigate whether the changes were made independently by the school or involved the facilities manager, highlighting ongoing challenges with bylaw enforcement and communication.