East Hampton
Eye Energy Generation
East Hampton Town will solicit proposals for two energy-generation projects designed to augment current energy supply and increase the town’s energy self-reliance. A solar-power plant at East Hampton Airport could generate up to 280 megawatts, and a “peaker plant” to produce additional energy during peak periods could be designed to use innovative green technologies, Frank Dalene of the town’s energy sustainability committee said at a town board meeting Tuesday. The project is another step toward meeting the town’s energy needs with sustainable or locally produced energy, perhaps precluding the need for utility companies to increase supply through additional plants or transmission lines. Last fall, the town board adopted a “comprehensive energy vision” and policy endorsing the energy sustainability committee’s promotion of energy conservation, pollution prevention, and similar programs, and the town’s participation in the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation’s Climate Smart Communities Program. On Jan. 21, the town board accepted proposals from three solar energy contractors to erect solar panel installations on town property for participation in the Long Island Power Authority’s FIT II program, through which power generated would be added to the grid. Up to 10 town-owned properties are being considered for solar sites.
To Review Taxi Regs
Members of a 2014 committee on East Hampton Town taxi regulations appointed by the town board last week will review the town’s current legislation governing the operation of cabs and recommend to the town board possible revisions. The five-member group includes Wayne Lentini and Mark Ripolone, two taxi business owners, James Hewitt, a Montauk restaurant owner, Laraine Creegan, the director of the Montauk Chamber of Commerce, and Diane Hausman, the chairwoman of the Montauk Citizens Advisory Committee. Michael Sendlenski, a town attorney, Carole Brennan, the town clerk, Councilman Peter Van Scoyoc, and representatives from the town police, ordinance enforcement office, and licensing review board will work with the group.