Fountain Hills, Arizona Development News

Council Debates Potential Solar Energy Projects, Leans Towards Road Priorities

Councilmember Watts proposed investigating the feasibility of solar energy projects for the town, suggesting a request for proposals (RFP) to get consensus. He highlighted potential financial benefits, including a payback period of less than 10 years, an ROI around 9%, and the advantage of the direct pay investment tax credit. Councilmember Skillicorn expressed skepticism about the payback period and the cost, suggesting funds might be better allocated to economic development or road repairs. Councilmember McMahon supported investigating the project, emphasizing it was for investigation and not contractual terms, and noted private businesses use solar. Vice Mayor Earl and Councilmember Larrabee also expressed concerns about staff time and resources already spent on similar projects, favoring road improvements. The general sentiment from several council members and public commenters indicated a preference for prioritizing road maintenance and economic development over solar energy projects at this time, with many leaning towards a 'no' vote on further investigation.