Residents rally against controversial solar field decision

Residents of Fort Gratiot expressed their deep concerns over the proposed solar field development during a recent government meeting, highlighting a growing divide between community members and local officials. Angie Dufresne, a resident and organizer, voiced her frustrations about the lack of transparency and communication regarding the solar project, which she claims has been met with widespread opposition from the community.

Dufresne revealed that she received only a short notice before the first hearing about the solar field, despite the project being known to the Economic Development Authority (EDA) since 2018. She criticized the planning commission for initially rejecting the proposal but later voting in favor of it, raising suspicions about the decision-making process. \"It feels like there's something weird going on,\" she stated, emphasizing that the community's rights and property enjoyment are at stake.

The emotional toll on residents was palpable, with Dufresne sharing that she had spent over ten hours on the phone with neighbors distressed about the implications of the solar fields. She called for greater advocacy from local officials, particularly the acting county commissioner, who she felt had not adequately represented the community's interests.

Dufresne's passionate plea underscored a significant local issue, as she urged the county commissioners to take action to protect the rights of Fort Gratiot residents. The meeting highlighted the ongoing tension between development initiatives and community concerns, raising questions about the role of local governance in addressing the needs and voices of constituents.