The article on page 9 of the HUNTLEY NEWS the 10/17/19 Sun Day Edition by Michelle Moreno regarding solar program was interesting, which also was reported by the 10/4/19 by Daily Herald. However, neither one capture the cost to the Huntley taxer pays. Allow me to respond.
In 1961, my college analysis/report centered on passive and active solar collector, however the systems were too costly in our climates. In fact, in 2001, my project at Argonne National Laboratory, had a Alternate cost of Solar System, but is was not accepted by DOE (Dept of Energy) because the pay-back of 8.0 years was exceeded by DOE requirement. Today, with any incentive, DOE recommend 10 years of pay-back, however, as, Ms. Moreno is aware, now, the State of Illinois as well Federal Government has excellent incentive (credits & deducts).
In this case, I correspondent with Mr. Scott Rowe (superintend) regarding their excellent Solar Program. He advised that the D-158 will save zero expenditures, and about $270,000 per year for 20 years, however he want this amount to be earmarked for D-158 expense.
I advise him that in 2020 Rutland and others Townships will have all D-158 taxes increase 6.55%, and in addition, some will also increase by the assessor by 5-10%. About 12% increase/year.
I advised him, that in 2012, the State of Illinois awarded $39,417,589 for D-158. Of this amount, the former superintend, Mr. John Burkey earmarked $4,457,589.00 of this amount, for 4-5 years toward Huntley property taxes…Now, Mr. Scott Rowe, the current superintend, is saying he will not deduct the $270,000/yr or portion of it or reduce D-158 amount to Huntley tax payer for 20 years. Is this fair?
Ronald Ghilardi
Sun City resident
