The meeting, which began at 7:00 p.m., covered various topics, including approval of minutes and the agenda, communications, public comment, and commissioner comments. Key motions passed involved the approval of the consent agenda, which included grant applications, contract renewals, and travel approvals. The board addressed action items, with significant discussion centered on a grant application for renewable energy.
The Leelanau County Energy Futures Taskforce has proposed a solar energy project for the Government Center, featuring a 367 kW solar system expected to supply 30% of its energy use. Funded by a $1.2 million grant, the initiative emphasizes financial savings, estimated at $35,310 annually, while promoting environmental sustainability and renewable energy in Michigan.
Michael Radke, a former school board member, advocates for solar panel installation at Leelanau County offices, leveraging his energy initiative experience. He underscores potential financial and environmental benefits, urging immediate action to capitalize on available grants. Radke’s commitment and insights highlight the significant impact this solar energy project could have on the county’s sustainability efforts.
Susan Wheadon expresses gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to environmental protection through the solar grant application process. She acknowledges the challenges posed by the fossil fuel industry’s efforts to spread disinformation about climate change and undermines the benefits of clean energy sources like solar power, appreciating the county’s commitment to a thorough approach to solar energy.
Kersti Bruining expressed strong support for the proposed solar project at the Leelanau County Government Center, highlighting both fiscal and environmental reasons. She emphasized her responsibility to future generations in mitigating climate change and called on the Commissioners to vote in favor of the project as the only ethical choice. Thanking them for their service, she concluded.
Beth Verhey supports the solar installation at the Government Center, urging the county to lead in clean energy. She shares her positive experience with solar power at home and highlights successful early adoptions in Northport. Verhey emphasizes the urgency of addressing climate change and the importance of setting a precedent for sustainability in the region.
Dana Getsinger expresses excitement about a grant opportunity for solar panels at the Government Center, emphasizing the benefits for the county. She believes this initiative would not only position the county as a leader in alternative energy but also align with the Native American Seventh Generation Principle for sustainable decision-making.
This document outlines ten compelling reasons for Leelanau County to apply for a grant from the Michigan Public Services Commission for solar power projects. The primary advantages include adopting renewable energy, reducing carbon emissions, achieving energy cost savings, and driving job creation, positioning the county for a sustainable economic and environmental future.
This document from Janis Ryawelski, District 4, expresses support for the MPSC grant proposal for a solar installation at the Government Center. Ryawelski highlights the potential for financial savings through reduced energy costs and the environmental advantages of transitioning away from fossil fuels, urging the recipient to communicate her support to the Leelanau County Commissioners.
John Hunter urges commissioners to support the Renewable Energy and Electrification Infrastructure Grant, noting its potential benefits for the community. He introduces a solar project that interlinks energy generation with organic farming, and proposes the “Farm2Table2Grid” initiative to enhance Leelanau County’s local economy while advocating for sustainable energy solutions at the Government Center.
