By 1812Blockhouse
Richland County Commissioners took up a critical discussion on wind and solar energy regulations during their Friday meeting, seeking township feedback on whether large-scale renewable energy projects should be restricted in certain areas. The meeting also covered various infrastructure updates, personnel moves, and budget approvals.
Townships To Weigh In on Wind and Solar Energy Rules
The meeting primarily focused on regulating large-scale wind and solar farms, prompted by a request from Sharon Township to consider possible restrictions. Jackson Township has also shown interest in limiting these types of developments. This discussion is rooted in Senate Bill 52, a 2021 Ohio law that empowers county commissioners to either prohibit or regulate large renewable energy projects in unincorporated areas.
According to the current guidelines:
- Large wind and solar farms are defined as projects that generate 50 megawatts or more of electricity.
- County commissioners have the authority to restrict or prohibit these developments if townships make such requests, but they are required to hold a public hearing beforehand.
- If townships choose not to take any action, they will remain open to potential renewable energy projects, which will then be evaluated by both the county and the Ohio Power Siting Board.
Commissioners to Send Letter Seeking Township Input
To ensure township governments have a say in the decision, commissioners will be sending a letter to all 18 townships in Richland County. This letter will:
- Provide a sample resolution that townships can adopt to restrict large wind and solar projects.
- Offer townships the choice to take no action, allowing potential developments to be considered on a case-by-case basis.
- Set a deadline of April 30 for townships to respond.
“This is a tough call,” said Commissioner Tony Vero, acknowledging the balance between landowner rights and community concerns.
Commissioners also noted that some townships are entirely unzoned, meaning residents have historically preferred fewer land-use restrictions. That factor adds complexity to any decision about restricting renewable energy developments.
Madison Township Trustee Dan Fletcher participated in the discussion, voicing concerns about how land use restrictions might impact property rights. Attendees also raised concerns about the long-term viability of large solar farms, pointing to a recent case in California, where a massive solar operation shut down after just 11 years due to financial losses.
Other Meeting Highlights
While renewable energy took center stage, the commissioners addressed several other topics:
- Infrastructure & Maintenance
- Approved a bid advertisement for bridge replacement with an estimated construction cost of $1,074,250.
- Announced that courthouse elevators are currently covered with cardboard to protect them during an eight-month construction period.
- Secured a $1,020 refund for elevator inspection fees after a contract dispute.
- Personnel & Hiring Approvals
- Approved the promotion of a new Child Support Case Manager effective February 13.
- Authorized external hiring for a clerical specialist position, with applications open from February 24 – March 12.
What’s Next?
Townships now have until April 30 to submit their feedback on wind and solar project restrictions. Commissioners will review the responses and may schedule a public hearing before making any formal decisions.
Meanwhile, construction projects and hiring efforts will continue, with updates expected in upcoming meetings.
