The meeting saw significant public participation, with residents expressing both support and concerns over the implications of battery storage facilities. Karen Fanon, a city counselor and chair of the Zoning Planning and Development Committee, presented the petition for a moratorium, explaining that it was designed to allow the city to draft regulations for battery storage facilities and their accessory developments without conflicting with existing state laws.

One key point raised during the meeting was the absence of specific zoning ordinances for BESS, which the board acknowledged. Without local rules, projects could bypass local zoning approval, using a state-established consolidated process similar to those applied to schools or churches, which allows for less regulated site selection. The board emphasized the importance of having local regulations to mitigate potential issues, such as environmental impacts and safety concerns.

The moratorium, as discussed, would remain in effect until September 30, 2026, or until new zoning regulations are adopted. It aims to bridge the gap between current practices and anticipated state regulations, which are still under development. The board discussed the potential need to extend the moratorium if state regulations are delayed.

Public concerns were a central part of the discussion. Ron Ru, a resident, inquired about the regulatory focus on installation tiers and the oversight of facilities in commercial industrial zones over aquifers. He also highlighted the need for clear language on lighting and noise standards in the draft bylaws.

Other residents, like Dan Alley and Maryanne Babinski, supported the moratorium while raising additional concerns. Alley criticized the inefficiency and high costs associated with current renewable energy systems. Babinski emphasized the need for the city to align its regulations with state mandates while protecting local resources, particularly water resources.

The board’s discussions also touched on fire safety concerns, referencing incidents like the ongoing fire at Moss Landing in California to underscore the importance of including emergency response responsibilities in the new bylaws. The board assured residents that these risks would be considered in the regulatory drafting process.

The meeting concluded with a unanimous decision to forward a recommendation to the City Council to impose the moratorium until September 30, 2026, with an emphasis on drafting effective regulations.

In addition to the moratorium discussion, the meeting included a special recognition segment honoring Ray St. Jaire, a retiring US Army veteran, for his 24 years of service, including two tours in Iraq. The board presented a proclamation from Mayor Mike McCabe, acknowledging St. Jaire’s contributions to the community and the country.