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Bethel transitioning to renewable energy

By Jacqueline Herman
Posted 3/28/23

BETHEL –– Solar-sourced electricity is available to residents of Bethel at an annual discount of 10 percent, through an ambitious project that spanned several years.  The Bethel …

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Bethel transitioning to renewable energy

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BETHEL –– Solar-sourced electricity is available to residents of Bethel at an annual discount of 10 percent, through an ambitious project that spanned several years.  The Bethel solar installation is now operational with an array on the town’s capped landfill in partnership with DSD Renewables. 

The new subscription manager is a firm called Arcadia. Some early subscribers were switched to arrays in other towns, and DSD reported that these subscribers were placed with either of two providers: Ampion and Arctrade.  Because DSD is unable to determine which of the two was assigned, questions or concerns about bills from NYSEG can be answered by contacting Ampion (800-277-3631) or Arctrade (856)746-6201). 

If anyone who signed up for renewable energy has not seen it reflected on their NYSEG bill, it is necessary to contact Arcadia atsupport@arcadia.com or (866)526-0083 to re-subscribe. If done promptly, Arcadia will provide placement on the Bethel solar array. Otherwise, space on nearby arrays is available. 

The “Miscellaneous Charges” on the NYSEG bill reflect “CDG value stack credit” and “CDG subscription fee.” The solar discount applies the credit against the fee with an annual 10 percent credit for Bethel residents. So far, there are 300 subscribers.

A local resident, Marie Fraioli, voiced her aggravation. “We didn’t get a bill for 6 months. My parents never got a credit.” 

It was announced that if CDG is on your bill, you are on solar. Details and phone numbers will be posted online at the town’s website: www.townofbethelny.us in the Newsletter, and on Facebook.

Supervisor Dan Sturm stated that with a solar array in place, “Bethel is setting a good example for other municipalities.”

Other News

• There was approval of the purchase for $57,344 for a new playground for children. Accessible to those with disabilities, it will be located at the Forest Reserve in Smallwood and available to all Bethel residents. One hundred and 30 acres of hiking trails, a jogging path, dog park and adult exercise equipment are nearby. Councilwoman Vicki Simpson stated that the colors “are green and brown, and fit in wonderfully with The Forest Reserve”. 

The Miracle Playground Company will send it in 6-8 weeks and the cost will be allocated from available funds so that there will be no burden on taxpayers. 

• Correspondence from Attorney Zachary Kelson, representing Harbor Watch at  2282 Rte 17B, stated that his client is obtaining estimates for demolition of an unsafe structure and requests a site visit before proceedings begin. The town gave a 60-day notice until June 1, and agreed to the hiring of engineers for a site visit if noncompliant.

  A letter of resignation written by Building Code Enforcement Officer Kaitlen Madison was read. March 31, 2023 will be her last day due to an illness and the need to focus on healing. She thanked the board for her year of employment and “the opportunity to work and learn…with everyone at Town Hall, PB, ZB, and the community.”

There was approval of her replacement, Joseph Smith, Jr. who meets requirements. It is a provisional full-time appointment at a salary of $41,000 a year. He begins Monday, April 3 and there will now be two part-time and one full-time employee in the Building Dept. In addition, a clerk will be hired in May.

• There was approval of a purchase of a used Boice Street Sweeper in good condition. Highway Superintendent, Rob Bonnaci, found one with 350 hours on it for  $22,500-$23,500. He will have comparative quotes for four possibilities he is researching shortly. For the last 10-12 years the town has been renting them for $5,000-$7,000 a year. Councilman Bernie Cohen stated, “Sometimes parts alone cost as much as this one” and the purchase “looks like a good idea.” 

• Moreen Lerner, Manager of Bethel Local Development Corp., announced that for  the first time, there will be the KL Indoor Farmers and Makers Market to be held at the Duggan School. Dates are 3/25, 4/29, and 5/27; 11am-2pm. The Saturday outdoor summer market will be 6/24 – 9/2; 11am-2pm. A list of vendors is online in the March Newsletter.

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