Residents express concerns over proposed solar panels' impact on health and environment

The St. Clair County Board of Commissioners convened on May 1, 2025, to address community concerns regarding the proposed solar panel installation near residential areas. The meeting featured passionate testimonies from local residents and health professionals, highlighting the potential negative impacts of the project on mental and physical health, as well as environmental concerns.

The session began with a heartfelt statement from a young resident who expressed distress over the proposed solar panels adjacent to her grandmother's farm. She articulated fears about noise pollution affecting her playtime and her grandmother's well-being, emphasizing the emotional toll such developments could impose on families.

Following her, Ashley Richardson, a physician assistant with over two decades of experience in the community, voiced strong opposition to the solar farm. She reported an increase in health issues among her patients, including high blood pressure and digestive problems, which she attributed to anxiety over the project. Richardson urged the board to consider the long-term environmental risks, including potential contamination of soil and water supplies, which could affect both current and future generations.

Sandra Tannehill, a planning commissioner from Wales Township, echoed these sentiments, citing the need for more stringent regulations to protect residents. She referenced the experiences of other communities that have faced similar projects, warning that without careful oversight, the solar installation could pose significant health and environmental hazards. Tannehill criticized the financial motivations behind the project and called for a more informed and cautious approach to development in the area.

The meeting underscored the community's apprehension regarding the solar project, with multiple speakers urging the board to prioritize public health and environmental safety in their decision-making process. As discussions continue, the board faces the challenge of balancing renewable energy initiatives with the concerns of local residents.