Although it generated a fair amount of controversy, the solar panels are now in place and functioning at Taylorville Municipal Airport.

Mayor Greg Brotherton, who supported the installation, says the panels produce electricity all year long.

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Part of the cost for the panels was covered by a $5,000 award from the Reader's Digest "We Hear You, America" contest.

The Mayor says they will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony concerning the solar panels this afternoon at 2 at the airport.