Public hearing held on Walworth County’s First Reading of ordinance on proposed solar farm

A public hearing was held Thursday, March 7th, on the First Reading of a proposed solar farm ordinance in Walworth County.

Colton Berens addressed the Walworth County Commissioners in opposition to the proposed ordinance.

Berens would like to see the issue put on the November general election ballot.

Loretta Stone opposes the ordinance for several reasons, including economic, landowners’ rights, and the quality of information on environmental impact.

Attorney Mitch Peterson told the board that they have already heard from experts.

Commission Chairman Jim Houck said the board cannot lower any setbacks without a neighbor’s consent.

Commissioner Kevin Holgard said he has received phone calls from “concerned business owners” who would like the setbacks reduced in order to encourage new business, and also if the County  wants help to pass an opt out.

Holgard then made a motion to lower the setbacks to one-half mile for property dwellings and 500 feet for property lines.  Attorney Peterson spoke again on keeping the setbacks as they are because of the size of the project.

Holgard’s motion failed on a 3 to 2 vote.

The commission then passed motion to change the date for the Second Reading public hearing from March 27th to the week of September 9th at the request of Colton Berens.  Commission Chairman Houck said he would prefer not to have to spend money on a special election.