Commissioners approve $2.95 million LGEM grant application for parks and county facilities

Director of Recreation and Parks Bivens presented the county's FY2027 Maryland Energy Administration LGEM grant application, a formula program with a guaranteed minimum award. Bivens said the county requested $2,951,769 and grouped projects in priority order to maximize potential award: multiple level‑2 energy audits for county facilities; LED field lighting upgrades at county parks; and roof‑mounted solar at the gymnastics center and Wicomico Shores, with a possible new roof replacement at Wicomico Shores included in project planning.

Bivens said the grant is non‑competitive and formula based with a minimum award floor; the county identified a 10% match (up to about $295,000) but expected that match could be offset by rebates and in‑hand funds for audits. He also said some SMECO support could add matching funds for lighting projects. Commissioners asked about storage/battery inclusion for solar (Bivens said there is no storage in this proposal) and discussed priority ordering so the county can receive additional dollars if other counties do not use certain project types.

Commissioner (mover) moved to approve the FY2027 LGEM grant application in the amount of $2,951,769 and to authorize the Commissioner President to execute any related documents; the motion passed by voice vote.