Resident Terry Morgan opposes Gibson Solar project in King George's Shiloh District

In a recent government meeting held in King George County, Virginia, resident Terry Morgan voiced his strong opposition to a proposed solar project by Gibson Solar Open Road Renewables. Speaking passionately as a member of the Shiloh District, Morgan expressed his concerns about the project’s alignment with the county's comprehensive plan and the potential environmental impact on the region.

Morgan, a generational citizen of King George, highlighted that he had not been contacted by the company regarding the project, despite living nearby. He emphasized that many other landowners in the vicinity shared his sentiment, raising questions about the company's engagement practices. “I do not feel that the company has tried to engage ethically in their paperwork or in meetings,” he stated, pointing out contradictions in the company’s claims of community outreach.

The resident's first major concern centered on the project’s compatibility with the Rappahannock River South Rural Development Area, arguing that it should have been denied based on its failure to meet the county's comprehensive plan. Morgan lamented the potential disruption to the area's rich agricultural landscape, which he described as vital to the community's identity and history. He warned that the project could threaten local waterways, including Maddox Creek and Kingsmill Creek, and disrupt the habitats of various wildlife, including the American bald eagle.

Morgan also cautioned that approving a special exception for this project could set a precedent, inviting further developments that might compromise the county's rural character. He urged the community to reject the proposal, advocating for the preservation of King George’s farmland and natural resources. “We as a community would be willing to bend the knee to a company that will destroy this land,” he lamented, invoking the words of James Madison about the dangers of straying from fundamental principles.

As the meeting progressed, Morgan's heartfelt plea resonated with many attendees, reflecting a broader concern about balancing development with environmental stewardship in King George County. The outcome of this discussion remains to be seen, but it has sparked a vital conversation about the future of the community and its cherished landscapes.