Regular business also approved
The Saltillo ISD school board met Thursday to consider the findings of fact for the Stampede Solar Project and the approval of an agreement for limitation on appraised value of property for school district maintenance and operations taxes by and between Saltillo ISD and Stampede Solar Project, LLC.
Regular business included approving a trip to the National FFA convention in Indianapolis, approving the purchase of interactive teaching boards, sound and video equipment for the gym and cafeteria as well as updating the HVAC equipment.
A public hearing was held for any members of the community who wished to share comments regarding the Stampede Solar Project but there were no members of the public present.
Rick Lambert, a partner at Powell Law Group, LLP, was in attendance to witness the board members acknowledge whether or not they had a conflict of interest in the project. All board members acknowledged that they did not have a conflict of interest so the board moved on to the findings of fact.
Shelly Leung, the director of economic development for Powell Law Group, was present to share the findings of fact which presents the superintendent, solar company and the Hopkins County Appraisal District with the justification for the proposed contract.
The financial benefits from the Stampede Solar Project will create over $7.2 million in revenue over a number of years as well as seven new jobs with annual salaries of $45,958.
An impact analysis study was done by the Texas Comptroller, and the project was given the green light due to sufficient revenue would be created to offset the investment of $192.8 million.
Supplemental payments of $50,000 start in 2022 and continue until 2036, amounting to a total of $750,000.
Zach Precopia of Enel Green Power was present along with the director of sustainability for the Stampede Solar Project, sharing that Enel wishes to help with any equipment needs of the local fire department, school, ag program and community.
The sustainability manager shared that Enel works on creating a shared value model which helps provide the most benefit in the long run for the community and the school.
The board voted to approve the findings of fact and enter in the agreement with Stampede Solar Project, LLC.
The board then discussed their regular agenda items, setting the October board meeting for Oct. 26.
Superintendent David Stickels shared that a bid was received for the Ford bus currently for sale, but no decision was made to accept or reject the bid.
A bid was also submitted for laminating the lobby, restroom, concession stand area and storage closets in the newly painted gym. The bid was totaled at slightly over $14,000.
Stickels shared that another company was supposed to be coming out to look and possibly submit a bid.
Stickels also shared that he had spoke with United Ag and Turf and Nor-Tex Tractor regarding the purchase of an RTV but had not heard anything back. He decided to purchase a Kubota from another company.
There were no updates or changes to COVID policy.
The board discussed some mechanical issues with a campus vehicle and whether to continue doing maintenance or sell the vehicle.
The board approved a trip for FFA students to travel to Indianapolis for the National FFA convention.
Stickels shared that in the past, students had taken a flight but this year had decided to drive with a stop planned at Grant’s Clydesdale farm for a tour.
The board then approved the purchase of interactive teaching boards with local funds.
The board also approved the installation of new sound and video equipment in the cafeteria and gymnasium as well as updating the HVAC equipment on the elementary side of the building.
There were no transfer applications or journal vouchers needing board approval.