The council convened on Sept. 24 to address several topics, including the approval of a former country club site that would be used for solar.
Planning for the solar site began in 2020 with the execution of a power purchase agreement (PPA). However, the project was left in limbo after the investor terminated the agreement in May 2024. The city was given the option to purchase the former Lynwood Country Club property, located on the former Dupont parcel.
The city has been seeking a “behind the meter” solar project since 2014, with five solid waste management units on the site that would remain undisturbed. Vice Mayor Aaron Rawls asked if there were any environmental concerns regarding the site.
“The entire site is usable, but we wouldn’t want to disturb those five areas,” said Joyce Durwin, the city’s electric director. Rawls also inquired about the total power output from the solar.
“We’re looking at about eight megawatts, which is roughly 10 percent of our needs,” said Durwin, adding that the energy generated would stay within the city, and thereby would directly benefit residents.
Rawls suggested conducting engineering studies to restore the city’s hydroelectric plant. While Durwin supported the idea, he cautioned that the costs would be high.
“I am really excited about this, and I think we need every single option we’ve got to take control of our power destiny,” said Rawls. The city plans to look at ways to keep energy costs from drastically rising in the future.
Council member Tammy Pearson raised concerns about the visual impact and potential degradation of the solar units. Durwin reassured her that the site is a former industrial area, not visible from residential neighborhoods, and that decommissioning costs would be factored into the power purchase agreement.
The council approved the motion and advised residents to be cautious of solar installation scams.
Pearson warned of predatory contracts, and Durwin urged residents to contact the city before agreeing to any solar deals. “There are a lot of scams out there from a residential perspective,” she said.
Rawls proposed the idea of hiring a city employee to broker deals with legitimate solar installers for residents. Durwin agreed that exploring a trusted partner could be beneficial.
Rawls highlighted the financial incentives available through the Inflation Reduction Act, which could assist households with energy efficiency improvements. He suggested further discussion on how the city could help residents navigate these opportunities.
The council also approved funding to improve sewer interceptors at Doe Run, Smith Lake Road, and the Martinsville Industrial Park. The city will contribute $559,610, with the remaining costs covered by a Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) loan.
Additionally, the council voted to accept a $700,000 grant for MiNet, with a $300,000 city share. The grant will aid in providing fiber internet to underserved areas.
During the public comment period, John Mahan urged the council to offer more support for former felons, particularly in securing housing. Mahan, a whistleblower in the North View Garden Apartments water situation, shared his personal struggles in finding housing due to a 2017 felony conviction.
“It was wrong in 2017, and it was wrong today, and I will stand up and take responsibility for what I did.”
Despite completing his parole, Mahan has been denied housing opportunities, and began living with his mother because he was not able to rent because of his record.
At the time, he said he was told, “you have to be seven years clear of a felony before they rent you the apartment.” He said his applications were denied, and the goalpost was moved from seven years post without being convicted of a felony to seven years after he had completed parole.
“We have people returning from incarceration who want to do right, but even after serving their time, the stigma remains,” said Mahan, adding that even after the criminal record continues to be held over their heads.
*Restaurant owner Rico Johnson also addressed the council, expressing concerns over alleged city-initiated reports of underage drinking at his establishment, Kornna Kitchen. Johnson, who said he employs a two-tier ID check system, denied the accusations and stated that his legal team is investigating the source of the claims.
The accusation is a serious charge, and no evidence has ever been found of underage drinking at the restaurant, Johnson said. “I’m just here to cook chicken,” he said, adding that his restaurant follows strict protocols to prevent underage drinking, and has even caught four fake IDs.
*In other business, the council heard the first reading of the Right of Way Abandonment for 406 James Street. If approved, the request would lead to an amendment to the city’s comprehensive plan.
*Appointed new members to boards:
– Anthony Jones was appointed to the school board with a term expiring June 14, 2028.
– Marcus Stone and Ronnie Fultz were appointed to the Economic Development Authority, with terms expiring Sept. 26, 2028.
– James Frith will serve a partial term on the Economic Development Authority, expiring Sept. 26, 2025.
– Tony Williams was appointed to the Arts and Cultural Committee for a term ending June 14, 2028.
– Charles Hill joined the Arts and Cultural Committee for a partial term expiring June 14, 2026.
– Damian Wainright was appointed to the Planning Commission, with his term ending June 30, 2028.
* Recognized Ayla Nunnehi Gordon, a world champion in Kung Fu.
