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Northampton council to consider ordinance governing solar voltaic systems

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The council will also vote whether to transfer $1,100 from a fund for handicapped parking fines into a new fund for the Committee on Disabilities.

NORTHAMPTON – In its first meeting of the new fiscal year, the City Council will tackle most housekeeping matters, and take a first reading on an ordinance that would allow large-scale solar voltaic systems, when it meets on Thursday.

The council took care of the big ticket items last month when it appropriated funds for the $93.5 million fiscal 2012 budget.

Eugene Tacy 2007.jpgEugene A. Tacy

It also took first votes on several controversial proposals, including one to ban the use of compression-release engine breaks on trucks. The brakes, which use energy from the engine to slow the vehicle, are used primarily for extra safety and to reduce wear-and-tear on wheel brakes. They are also loud. Acting on noise complaints by residents, some councilors proposed an ordinance that would have banned the use of the brakes within city limits. After hearing objections from truckers, however, the council modified the ordinance, directing it only at truckers that abuse the brakes or rig up excessively noisy systems.

Ward 7 Councilor Eugene A. Tacy believes the compromise is fair to both sides.

“If a truck buys a straight pipe that’s cheaper, it can be tremendously loud,” he said of the inadequate muffling systems.

However, Tacy said he has also watched big trucks going through downtown Northampton and recognizes the need for the back-up system of compression brakes.

“I want to know that guy’s got control of the truck,” he said.

Concerning the ordinance that would allow large-scale solar voltaic systems by right in some zones, a special permit is currently required for such systems in some zoning districts. The ordinance is geared towards encouraging the creation of commercial facilities. Planning officials have said the city has the one-time opportunity to sell renewable energy to power companies.

Paul Spector 2003.jpgPaul D. Spector

The city has also looked at locating a solar array at the municipal landfill. Ward 2 Councilor Paul D. Spector, who is a member of a committee studying that possibility, said the issue will have to be put off until activity ceases at the Glendale Road facility. The landfill is scheduled to reach capacity and close next year, but some work might continue there as part of the closure. Spector said truck activity will create dust in the air, which is not suitable for solar panels.

In a minor monetary matter, the council will vote whether to transfer $1,100 from a fund for handicapped parking fines into a new fund for the Committee on Disabilities. The council recently created the fund so that the committee will have money to print brochures and support other projects on behalf of the disabled.


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