Town Meeting members approved Article 37, authorizing the town to enter into energy credit contracts that could yield significant savings on municipal utility bills. The article allows Milton to purchase energy credits from off-site solar farms at a discount, which are then applied to the town's electricity accounts.

Town Administrator Nicholas Milano explained that the town is working through Power Options, a non-profit energy buying consortium. Article 37 specifically relates to the town's electric bills, Milano said, distinguishing the municipal savings from the town's separate residential aggregation program. In response to a question from Member Linda Lee Sheridan regarding the use of solar canopies over parking lots, Milano noted that while the high school might be a candidate for such structures in the future, the current focus is on rooftop installations and credit agreements.

The move is part of a broader suite of renewable energy initiatives discussed during the third night of the meeting. Proponents argued that locking in lower rates is a necessary step as the town faces a projected $6.4 million fiscal shortfall by 2030. By reducing operational expenses for municipal buildings, the town aims to mitigate some of the budgetary pressure on the general fund.

Motion: That the town vote to approve the article as printed in the warrant.

Vote: Passed 184-8-6