Zoning Board denies solar farm proposal near Morris due to planning concerns

The Grundy County Zoning Board of Appeals held a public hearing on April 15, 2025, to discuss a proposed solar farm project on Gore Road. The meeting featured a range of opinions from board members and community representatives, highlighting the ongoing debate over land use and development in the area.

A significant point of contention was the city's growth and its relationship with the solar company. Board member Mr. Joyce suggested that the city should engage with local landowners to communicate its development plans, emphasizing the need for transparency to avoid repeated conflicts. He noted that the city’s interest in expanding its boundaries could align with the solar project, which was seen as a potential opportunity for economic growth.

Support for the solar project was voiced by Butch Ryan, representing the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 176. He praised the developer for their commitment to using local labor, arguing that this approach would benefit the community economically. Ryan pointed out that many renewable energy projects in Illinois have relied on out-of-state labor, which does not contribute to local economies in the same way.

The discussion also included objections from the city of Morris regarding the solar farm's proximity to its planning area. Some board members expressed concerns about adhering to Morris's development plans, which influenced their votes. Ultimately, the board voted against granting a positive recommendation for the solar farm, with the motion to deny the project passing by a narrow margin.

The outcome of the meeting underscores the complexities of balancing local development interests with broader economic opportunities. The decision will now be forwarded to the county board for further consideration, where additional discussions and potential conditions may arise. The board's deliberations reflect ongoing tensions between municipal planning and the push for renewable energy initiatives in the region.