Loveland Council OKs Lightning Hybrids city bus upgrades

LOVELAND – City Council approved a proposal for Lightning Hybrids to fit two city of Loveland buses with more fuel efficient hydraulic hybrid powertrain systems.

Councilors approved the deal Tuesday for as part of an agreement for the company to repay money it owes the city after the company fell short on promised job creation.

The Loveland company, as part of a city incentive program, had promised to create 25 jobs for a $50,000 cash payment in July 2009, according to city documents. The city agreed to pay Lightning Hybrids another $50,000 once the company had created an additional 25 jobs.

The…