North Lawrence residents challenge solar project drainage plans during Planning Commission meeting

Concerns over a proposed solar project in Douglas County, Kansas, dominated the recent Board of Commissioners meeting on December 18, 2024. Local residents and stakeholders voiced their apprehensions regarding the project's potential impact on water runoff and farmland, emphasizing the need for further review and consideration.

Chad Voigt, a local resident, highlighted past failures in water management related to the project, recalling a previous presentation where engineers claimed a 26% reduction in water runoff. Voigt expressed skepticism about the current plans, stating, "We can't always trust the experts," and urged the commissioners to allow more time for community input and analysis. He noted that previous plans had been met with widespread opposition from residents, raising questions about the decision-making process.

Jeff Dennis, a farm manager from Pines International, echoed these concerns, detailing how existing drainage issues had already caused significant crop losses on his organic farm. He reported that inadequate stormwater management had led to flooding that affected both his fields and local roads. Dennis warned that without proper planning, the solar project could exacerbate these problems, stating, "This project without proper stormwater planning will only make problems worse."

The meeting underscored a growing tension between development and environmental stewardship in the community. Residents are calling for a more thorough examination of the proposed plans, particularly regarding their implications for local agriculture and water management. As discussions continue, the Board of Commissioners faces the challenge of balancing economic development with the needs and concerns of the community. The outcome of this project could have lasting effects on both the environment and the livelihoods of those in the area.