Solar Co deploying cash
Distributed Solar Development in Schenectady tells the Albany Business Journal that it is using $535 million to finance solar projects around the country. It has bought nine projects in New York and Maryland. DSD will finance and provide expertise to developers. DSD is owned by BlackRock Real Assets, the story says.
Old Brick Furniture & Mattress Co. spreading despite troubles
Old Brick Furniture & Mattress Co. has faced the pandemic troubles seen elsewhere says a story in the Albany Business Journal. Opening the new store in Clifton Park has been a challenge of pandemic proportions as they have faced troubles getting construction materials, deliveries from Asia and a shortage of delivery drivers when they could get the materials, the story says.
Public hearing for septic law
Warren County Board of Supervisors will hold a public hearing next month about the proposed law that requires property owners to inspect their septic systems before a sale of the property is complete, the Post-Star is reporting. Lake George Supervisor Dennis Dickinson opposes the proposal because it would require hiring a person to oversee the process. About 1,500 properties a year would fall under the law, the story says.
Firefighters win contract in Schenectady
Schenectady’s government settled three contracts with unions, at $4.1 million, the Daily Gazette says. This included the firefighter unit’s pact which had expired in December 2018. City firefighters, the Bureau of Services and the electrical workers’ unit won retroactive contracts in the 2% range, the story says. The city still faces staffing shortages, the story says.
Also about firefighters...
Rexford needs volunteer firefighters, critically, says another story in the Daily Gazette. Signs asking for help are scattered about communities like Rexford and Round Lake.
The Rexford Fire District in Clifton Park, serves seven square miles and 850 homes. They have 20 volunteer firefighters, and they are looking for at least 12 more, the story says.
Larch beetle attacks tamaracks
Eastern larch beetles have attacked healthy eastern larch trees, or tamaracks, in the Adirondacks, a new twist from an old invader. Normally the beetles would affect only weak or compromised trees. About 30 trees are infected, but there is little the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation can do, the Adirondack Explorer is reporting. Cutting a tree and burning or chipping them is about the only way to stop the invaders.