Residents oppose Cheektowaga solar farm citing health risks and environmental concerns

Concerns over a proposed solar farm on a local landfill dominated the Cheektowaga Town Board meeting on January 14, 2025, as residents voiced strong opposition to the project. John Warwick, a concerned neighbor, raised alarms about the potential risks associated with installing solar panels on the landfill site, emphasizing that the landfill cap is crucial for preventing toxic materials from contaminating the environment.

Warwick highlighted several key issues, including the risk of puncturing the landfill cap, which could lead to hazardous leaks of methane gas and leachate. He referenced past incidents where similar projects in other states resulted in environmental disasters, including water runoff exposing hazardous waste and methane leaks that burdened taxpayers with costly repairs.

"The project directly threatens the health and safety of my family, neighbors, and surrounding wildlife," Warwick stated, urging the board to reconsider the project. He called for alternative sites, such as industrial zones or brownfields, that would not endanger local communities or ecosystems.

Warwick also criticized the lack of transparency surrounding the project, questioning why it had not been more widely communicated to residents. He expressed frustration that many community members were unaware of the proposal until construction was imminent.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's safety and environmental integrity were at the forefront of residents' concerns. Warwick concluded his remarks by urging the board to prioritize the well-being of the community over the perceived benefits of the solar farm, advocating for a more responsible approach to renewable energy development.