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After over an hour of deliberation and some tense exchanges with Town of Sudbury staff, the Park and Recreation Commission voted 2 in favor and 3 opposed to the Haskell solar canopy proposed in Article 34 of this year’s Annual Town Meeting.
Chair Mara Huston and Vice Chair Laurie Eliason voted in favor of supporting the article. Members Bobby Beagan and Ben Carmel opposed. Member Granger Atkeson also opposed, but explained he will be voting for the article as a citizen. “As a citizen I plan to vote for this. I can explain why I couldn’t, as a PRC representative, give this our blessing.” (1:24:00)
The Commission has previously expressed frustration with the manner in which this project was initially proposed last year. Another major concern for several members was the aesthetics of the array. Renderings showing a flat canopy instead of “v-shaped” canopy were generally well-received by the Commission, yet other issues still didn’t sit well with the majority.
Member Ben Carmel cited an informal/incomplete answer on the Article 97 & An Act Preserving Open Space in the Commonwealth of the Massachusetts General Laws. The Town initially had concerns that this would be a change in use of the land, which could run afoul of Article 97, but has since heard back from the State that it would likely not be deemed a change in use. Carmel wanted a more formal opinion/answer before proceeding with the project.
Member Bobby Beagan cited that the land was previously farm land and appreciated that it’s still an open field. He felt the canopy would significantly change the sense of place.
Commissioners shared similar process and jurisdictional concerns, but each member had different points of emphasis while weighing the benefits and risks of the project.
The project already has the support of the Finance Committee and Select Board, and has had the support of the Energy and Sustainability Committee since last year. Proponents have cited the annual electricity cost savings, as well as the environmental and sustainability benefits of solar canopies as reasons to support the project. Others, including Energy and Sustainability Committee Chair, Rami Alwan, have noted conveniences including how cars parked under canopies don’t get as hot during the spring and summer months.
Annual Town Meeting begins on Monday, May 4. The warrant is available below.