Berlin Looking Into Solar Power And Sale Of Surplus Equipment

By Doug La Rocque
Does the Town want to consider using some of the land behind the municipal complex along  Airport Road for the installation of solar panels? [private] It was one of the topics of discussion at the workshop meeting of the Berlin Town Board on June 23. Petersburgh and Hoosick Falls have already installed such facilities, and other neighboring towns are talking about it.  Board members have expressed interest in the idea, and have decided to ask Planning Board member Frank Maze to help them seek out some proposals.  Maze is employed in the energy field and has some expertise on the subject.  Also brought before the Board by Town Supervisor Rob Jaeger was the proposed sale of surplus equipment.  Once all is identified, the Town is looking to advertise for bids for pieces valued under $1,000 and place the higher valued items up for auction.
Up for discussion at the workshop as well was the position of manager for the Transfer Station.  Long-time manager Ivan Wager fell ill early this year and has decided not to return to the position.  The Board has decided to look for a replacement, as well as earlier this month approving an ad for a part-time employee.
The use of the large green next to the Town Hall has been a subject of discussion at recent Board meetings, with an eye toward renting out the space for various community and commercial events.  It recently hosted the retirement party for long-time Berlin School teacher Dianne Mosher.  The Board is looking to finalize what fees, rules and deposits would be set forth, and may bring a measure on this topic to a vote at its next regularly scheduled Board meeting, Thursday July 14 at 7:30 pm.[/private]