I understand why the school district is interested in the proposed solar project, and I appreciate that financial projections and estimated savings have been presented. Still, I can’t help feeling like this decision is moving far too quickly for something involving such a large financial commitment.

The proposal was first introduced just a couple months ago, and now a final decision is expected by June. For a project expected to impact the district financially for years — even decades — that feels rushed.

My concern isn’t really about solar itself. If the numbers work long term, great. But right now, the district is already operating at a deficit, and we’re talking about spending hundreds of thousands of dollars based largely on predicted future savings. Those projections may turn out to be correct, but they are still projections.

I’m also uncomfortable with the fact that only one vendor proposal appears to have been seriously considered. When public money is involved, especially at this scale, I think taxpayers should expect multiple bids, comparisons, and more time for review.

At the end of the day, I simply think decisions this large deserve a slower, more deliberate process — one that gives both board members and the public enough time to fully evaluate the long-term financial impact before moving forward.

Laura Bennett