Council approves EV‑charging project agreement; members question indemnity and cost details

Council approved consent item 6C, a multi‑jurisdiction EV‑charging project agreement that combines grant funding and local contributions, after clarifying the town’s financial responsibilities and contract terms.

Councilmember Ellen asked whether the town's entitlement portion—roughly described in the packet—was primarily staff time. Staff confirmed that the entitlement work is expected to be staff time rather than a cash expenditure and that combining resources could yield economies of scale. Ellen also raised a concern about a standard indemnity clause that asked the town to "indemnify and hold harmless" larger jurisdictions; staff said the town attorney had reviewed the contract and that such language is based on standard forms used across neighboring cities and would apply only in cases of town negligence or wrongdoing.

The council moved and approved item 6C by roll call vote 5–0. Councilmembers emphasized the need for careful legal review and for staff to continue seeking cost efficiencies through combined procurement.

Why it matters: the project expands EV infrastructure using a state grant (packet figures referenced grant and town contribution estimates) while relying on coordination among jurisdictions. Council required clarity on entitlement cost accounting and assurances that indemnity language had been vetted by counsel.

Next steps: staff will finalize contract documents reflecting legal review, confirm the town's non‑cash entitlement contributions (staff time) and proceed with project implementation.