Butte public library asks council for about $25,000 to complete solar project funding

Steph Johnson, representing the Butte public library, requested the council's support to finalize a rooftop solar project. Johnson said Northwestern Energy awarded the library a $39,000 renewable energy grant toward an estimated $92,000 project but that federal rebates were currently unknown and the library would need about $25,000 from Butte-Silver Bow to complete the funding package.

Johnson said the Montana State Library provides approximately $18,000 annually to fund library services and asked the council to consider the local contribution so the project could proceed; she said she has a July 14 deadline for a grant award that requires local action. She also said she will appear on next week's agenda for a fuller presentation.

The council acknowledged the request and directed staff to include the item on a future agenda so Johnson can present the full funding package and timeline.