Supervisors Discuss CSB Leases, Review Solar Proposal

Decorah Vikings win, City Council votes, New Referenda on the ballot — we're the one telling Decorah's story. Donate now. DECORAH — The Winneshiek County Board of Supervisors discussed lease rates at the County Services Building and reviewed a proposed solar energy project for the facility during its meeting Monday morning. Supervisors questioned whether current rental rates adequately reflect operating costs and market conditions. Supervisor Mark Vick reviewed information showing that The Spectrum Network occupies about 35% of the building and pays approximately $2,000 per month in rent. Vick noted the building's annual expenses totaled about $77,000 last year and questioned whether lease rates should be adjusted. Supervisor Shirley Vermace said additional discussions with tenants are needed. "Have we gotten all of the tenants around one table with a couple of supervisors to go over this and update it?" Vermace asked. County Auditor Ben Steines said county officials have met with individual organizations but have not brought multiple tenants together for a joint discussion. Supervisors identified The Spectrum Network and Toys Go 'Round as tenants that should be contacted regarding lease arrangements and potential rent increases. The board also discussed future county space needs, including the possibility that the Public Health Department could eventually require space in the building. Later in the meeting, John Nielsen of Novak Electric presented an update on a proposed solar installation for the County Services Building. Nielsen said the project would be structured through a power purchase agreement in which a private investor would own the solar system and assume associated risks and liabilities. The county would purchase electricity generated by the system at a discounted rate and receive utility credits for the power produced. According to Nielsen, the proposed agreement would run for 25 years and include an option for the county or another entity to begin purchasing the system after seven years. If the system is not purchased by the end of the agreement, it would continue on a year-to-year basis. Supervisors raised questions about long-term obligations, including what would happen if the building were sold before the agreement expires. Nielsen said such agreements are typically transferable to a future owner but acknowledged he had not encountered that situation in a previous project. Board Chair Dan Langreck also asked whether a structural analysis of the building's roof had been completed. Nielsen said the analysis has not yet been conducted and would be part of the next phase of the project. Supervisors also raised questions about roof access, snow loads, insurance requirements and maintenance around rooftop equipment. Nielsen provided a draft power purchase and lease agreement for review. County Attorney Andy Van Der Maaten said he would examine the documents and determine whether additional legal questions need to be addressed before the proposal moves forward. No action was taken on the solar proposal. Supervisors said the agreements would undergo further review before any future approval. Discover what's happening near you! The free DecorahNews.com newsletter brings updates, inspiring stories, and practical tips right to your inbox.