January Committee Meeting

Article Summary: The county is revising its solar ordinance to comply with new state laws and has hired a consultant to capture up to $150,000 in tax credits for existing solar projects.

Renewable Energy Key Points:

• Ordinance Changes: A new state energy omnibus bill requires the county to cap commercial solar application fees at $5,000 per megawatt and conclude public hearings within 60 days.

• Tax Credits: The Finance Committee approved a $7,500 contract with Tri-Merit to file for renewable energy tax credits, with an estimated return of $135,000 to $150,000.

• Projects: The tax credits apply to solar installations at the Highway Department, Health Department, and Senior Center.

The Montgomery County Board is taking steps to align its regulations with new state laws while capitalizing on financial incentives for its own renewable energy investments.

On Monday, Feb. 2, 2026, the Development & Personnel Committee reviewed mandatory changes to the county’s solar ordinance following the signing of a state energy omnibus bill in January. The state legislation overrides several local controls, requiring the county to lower its maximum fee cap to $5,000 per megawatt and mandating that public hearings for permits conclude within 60 days. The committee voted to recommend these changes to the full board.

Separately, the Finance & Budget Committee on Feb. 5 moved to recoup funds from the county’s own solar infrastructure. Treasurer Nikki Lohman presented a proposal from Tri-Merit Special Tax Professionals to perform specialty tax services related to the Renewable Energy Tax Credit.

The county has installed solar projects at the Highway Department, Health Department, and Senior Center. Tri-Merit estimates the county could receive a total credit range of $135,000 to $150,000. The committee approved the $7,500 contract with Tri-Merit to file the necessary paperwork.

Additionally, the county received notification from the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) that its application for Round 3 of the Energy Transition Community Grant Program has been approved.

Meeting Briefs

Animal Control Upgrades:
The Development & Personnel Committee approved the purchase of a used Chevy Tahoe from the Sheriff’s Office for Animal Control use at a cost of $11,714. Additionally, the committee awarded a bid to Weiss Construction & Roofing for a porch enclosure, fencing, and an eye wash station at the Animal Control facility. These construction costs will be fully reimbursed by the DCEO Energy Transition Grant.

City-Wide Clean-Up Grant Renewed:
The Development & Personnel Committee voted to continue the City-Wide Clean-Up grant program for 2026. Municipalities and townships are eligible for reimbursement of up to $750 per year for landfill and dumpster fees associated with community clean-up days.