Solar & Battery Storage Moratorium Discussed in Delhi - Public Hearing June 8th

DELHI - Delhi Town Council members introduced two local laws establishing a temporary moratorium on battery energy storage systems and on the construction of solar energy systems. A public hearing regarding the proposed laws is scheduled Monday, June 8th at 6:31 p.m. The moratorium will allow the town time to develop local laws and regulations regarding such commercial projects.

Councilmember Josh Morgan, who serves as a code enforcement officer for neighboring municipalities, said that laws are being developed across the state. These projects are new, raising potential issues that the town should protect itself against, he noted. Morgan mentioned a project in Hamden, for which the town had little protection before it came about. If something happens, constituents will look to us, concluded Morgan.

Supervisor Maya Boukai explained that the memorandum will give the council time to establish safety protocols, noting the fire hazard posed by battery storage systems. She said that with all the volunteer fire departments in the county, this could be a real concern.

Boukai further added that with the recent update to Watershed agreements with the New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), there is a potential for these projects on DEP land. She will request that county representatives knowledgeable in such negotiations attend a future board meeting.

Councilmember Daniel Gashler expressed concern about limiting such projects. He said a one-year moratorium is too long.

Boukai noted that the moratorium applies only to commercial projects and would not prevent a homeowner from installing solar panels.

During public comment, Jesse Hubbard said he was against the moratorium. Solar projects are important for environmental factors and support grazing farming, he said. Hubbard further added that much of the Delaware County farm land is not being used for farming and will not be in the future. “Instead of letting it sit there, we should try to use it,” he concluded.

Other Business

Gashler requested that the town donate $2,000 to the Village for fireworks at the Fair on the Square July 4th celebration. While the Village provides funding for the event each year, it is not the official organizer. Many council members requested clarification on where that funding was going and on the intent of the donation. The discussion was tabled.

The next public input session for the comprehensive plan update is scheduled Wednesday, June 10, at 5:30 p.m. at Blue Stone.

Hubbard asked the board to consider adopting NY Good Cause Eviction Law, which places limits on rent and evictions.

The council’s letter of interest to utilize the Delaware County E-Center at 5 1/2 Main Street as a shared municipal building with the village was denied. The board will explore renovation of its current structure at 5 Elm Street.

Twelve lifeguards were hired for the pool season, starting at $17 per hour and rising to $19 per hour, based on experience and time with the town.

A portion of the NY Swim Grant awarded to SUNY Delhi will be used to teach swimming at the town pool, up to $3,500. Free lessons will start June 8th and run until June 26th, Monday through Thursday. Look for sign-up information on the town website at townofdelhiny.gov.

The council accepted a $650 bid from David Krzyston for an electrical setup at the concession stand by the pool and playground.

The town entered an executive session to discuss pending assessment litigation.

The town will host a FOIL training prior to the regular monthly board meeting on Monday, June 8, starting at 5 p.m. Individuals can sign up to attend virtually by visiting townofdelhiny.gov.