Jackson Council approves EV charging contract; town commits $147,000 match

The Jackson Town Council voted Dec. 15 to authorize staff to prepare a contract with the vendor recommended in staff materials to design, supply, install and manage electric‑vehicle charging infrastructure. Staff said the regional grant covers $588,000 of an estimated $735,000 project; the town’s expected match is $147,000 and staff recommended requesting $147,000 from the town’s 2022 Energy Conservation Works SPET fund to cover the match and first‑year management costs.

Staff explained a phased approach: Phase 1 (design) is covered and obligatable under the existing federal agreement; Phase 2 (installation of charging stations) is contingent on the Federal Highway Administration obligating the remaining federal funds. The recommended contract scope would include design plans, equipment and a five‑year management plan with parts and labor coverage for current and new stations.

Councilor Regan moved and the council seconded motions to direct staff to prepare the contract and to request $147,000 from Energy Conservation Works SPET funds to reimburse town match and first‑year management if Inflation Reduction Act direct‑pay credits are realized. Council approved both motions unanimously.

Staff said the project would add roughly 20 charging ports: 16 Level‑2 (slow) ports and 4 fast‑charge ports (arranged as dual ports at select locations), with fast chargers planned at sites such as the Recreation Center and principal town parking lots. Staff will proceed with contract negotiation and seek the grant obligations needed for construction.