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MINUTES OF COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE <br /> APRIL 24, 2023 <br /> AUDITORIUM <br /> Present: Councilmembers Baker, Bullock, Kepple, Litten, Marx, Rader, Shachner <br /> Also Present: Mayor George, Finance Director Rancatore, Police Chief Kaucheck, Public Works <br /> Director Gordon, Law Director Ernie Vargo, Fire Chief Dunphy, Human Services Director Berry, <br /> Human Resources Director Dillinger, Chief Information Officer Mike Coletta, Building <br /> Commissioner Parmelee, Chief of Staff John Storey, Clerk Bach and Council staff <br /> Call to order: 6:07 p.m. <br /> Cove Community Center Battery Power Solution <br /> Councilmember Rader delivered a proposal for ARPA funding to support battery power at Cove <br /> Community Center. He noted that backup power generation at Cove has always been part of the <br /> plan for the space. He acknowledged that while he was originally pursuing solar-powered backup <br /> generation, he is now convinced that battery-powered backup is best suited for the City. He <br /> advocated for a layered approach in which battery backup serves as the foundation with solar and <br /> microgrid technology being added later. <br /> Councilmember Rader shared his vision for Cove to be a resiliency hub, able to function in a <br /> situation without power. He explained the role that a battery could play during these events and <br /> during routine usage as a way to save power and money. He provided examples of battery <br /> backup from other communities. He referenced an analysis of Cove's electric bill which showed <br /> relatively high usage. <br /> Councilmember Rader shared additional information about technical considerations, potential <br /> costs, and location of the battery. He estimated that a battery could save the city 30-50% on <br /> electricity at Cove moving forward. He stated that the life of the battery is 10-20 years. He <br /> shared resources for grant funding and proposed next steps. <br /> Councilmember Bullock and Kepple applauded the proposal and noted its compatibility with the <br /> city's Climate Action Plan. <br /> Director Berry stated his priority that all building services including the elevator and <br /> refrigerators are functional for the duration of a disaster or power outage. In response to a <br /> question, he explained how the city has managed past emergencies. He noted that the advantage <br /> of using Cove in an emergency is that it has all the emergency services, such as food in one <br /> location. Cove can hold 300 people in an emergency. <br /> Councilmembers Rader and Bullock spoke of additional considerations regarding the proposal. <br /> Councilmember Rader proposed an energy audit in 2023 and installation by end of 2024. <br /> President Litten proposed that Council use its remaining collective funds as follows: <br /> 1 <br />