Council hears first reading to accept EV chargers through SOPC grant; SOPC liaison introduces regional role

Council read Ordinance 32‑26 for first consideration authorizing the service safety director to accept electric vehicle charging stations provided through a SOPC (Sustainable Ohio Public Energy Council) grant and to authorize their installation on public property. The ordinance named likely locations for chargers including the city parking garage at 13 East Washington Street, parking spaces along Armory Street at 1 Armory Street, and the parking lot at Athens Fire Department headquarters, 120 East Simpson Avenue.

Mary Nally, who introduced herself during public comment as the new Southeast Ohio regional liaison for SOPC, described SOPC as a statewide council of governments that helps communities secure competitive utility rates and deploy renewable energy. Nally said SOPC's aggregation programs have generated "over $40 million in total combined savings for participating members across the state since June of 2021," and she warned that factors including PJM and planned utility fee changes could put upward pressure on rates.

The ordinance was read for the first time; council members expressed support for sustainability goals and no public opposition was recorded at first reading. The item will return for additional readings and contract details if the council moves forward.