The city of Stratford hosted a town hall meeting to address community questions about a new solar facility proposed by Aspen Wood Solar. The meeting, attended by local residents, city officials, and company representatives, aimed to shed light on the project’s potential impact on the community.
According to Stratford Mayor Greg Wright, the meeting was productive, with many residents' concerns addressed. However, some questions remain unanswered as discussions between the city and Aspen Wood Solar continue. Wright expressed optimism that outstanding concerns will be resolved in the future.
“I feel like the community is probably in shock that something like this wants to come here and how much it could possibly change our little town,” said Wright. “But I’m trying to look at the positives of everything—what it will do for our tax base, what it will do for additional businesses coming in. I feel like our town has a chance to grow with them coming in.”
Community Concerns and Questions
Residents raised a variety of concerns, including the project’s impact on the school district, city infrastructure, housing, roads, and the environment. Toxic waste management was a prominent topic of discussion, particularly regarding the manufacturing process and waste disposal.
Mayor Wright shared that Aspen Wood Solar addressed some of these concerns during the meeting. The company clarified that solar wafers would be manufactured overseas and shipped to the facility, alleviating fears about local contamination. Additionally, the company emphasized that their production processes would use minimal water, a reassurance for the conservation-conscious community.
“The toxic waste was a big subject today,” Wright noted. “The way they’re going to dispose of it and the fact that they’re not using a lot of water settled a lot of nerves.”
Opportunities for Growth
The mayor highlighted the potential economic benefits of the project, including a boost to the town’s tax base and increased interest from housing developers. Several developers, particularly from the Amarillo area, have already inquired about available land for new housing projects.
“I have talked to several housing developers,” Wright said. “They’re already inquiring about land available that they can build on.”
Infrastructure Improvements
The town is also focusing on preparing its infrastructure for the influx of people and businesses that the solar facility may bring. Improving roads, especially those crossing the railroad tracks leading to the proposed facility, has been identified as a priority. Kathy Allen, a city official, is already in contact with railroad representatives to upgrade the crossing.
“With this coming in, we’re going to have to improve that road that’s going out there right now,” Wright explained. “It’s in terrible shape, and we’re working to address it.”
Community Response
Gary Hudson, a local farmer, attended the meeting to learn more about the project. While he entered with few concerns, he left feeling more informed and optimistic about the facility’s potential.
“I think it’s an opportunity for our community,” Hudson said. “But I think our community wants to be sure that the whole project is done right and correct.”
Looking Ahead
Mayor Wright emphasized that his focus as mayor is on the future of Stratford and improving the quality of life for its residents. He remains hopeful that the partnership with Aspen Wood Solar will bring growth and opportunity to the town.
“I’m trying to think about the future of Stratford,” said Wright. “I hope this will improve the quality of life for people in our community.”
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