Solar project seeks approval amid community concerns

In a recent government meeting, Morgant Solar, LLC presented its request for a preliminary site plan review, addressing previous concerns regarding landscaping and visibility. The company submitted supplemental materials, including a detailed landscape plan, planting palette, line of sight profiles, and visual renderings, which were reviewed by staff prior to the meeting.

Local counsel Genevieve McFarland, along with project engineer Nick Lassner, outlined their approach to the application, emphasizing the importance of separating the discussion of a requested waiver from the preliminary site plan review. The waiver in question is a partial request related to firm requirements, which they believe is essential for the project's progression.

During the meeting, McFarland noted that the team had diligently worked to incorporate feedback from the last planning commission meeting, aiming to clarify the site plan and enhance the landscaping details. Lassner further elaborated that while the site plan itself had not undergone significant changes, the additional details provided were intended to offer a clearer understanding of the landscape buffer and its justification.

The meeting included a formal testimony segment, where representatives from the applicant team introduced themselves and affirmed their commitment to transparency and community engagement. The discussions are expected to continue as the planning commission evaluates the revised site plan and waiver request.