The Riverside County Board of Supervisors held a regular meeting on April 2, 2024, where significant discussions centered around the proposed Eastly Solar Project by Intercept Power and its potential impact on the Lake Tamarisk community. The meeting featured public comments from residents expressing concerns about the project's proximity to their homes and the lack of prior notification regarding similar developments.

The Eastly Solar Project is set to cover approximately 3,700 acres of land, including federal and private properties, located near Lake Tamarisk. Residents voiced their apprehension that the project would transform their community into an "industrial sea of solar panels," adversely affecting their quality of life. In response to these concerns, community members proposed the "Respect Lake Tamarisk" alternative, advocating for a one-mile buffer zone to mitigate the project's negative impacts while still contributing to California's renewable energy goals.

During the meeting, Supervisor Perez engaged with a resident about the state's expedited approval process for solar projects, referencing Governor Newsom's support for renewable energy initiatives. The resident expressed disagreement with the governor's approach, highlighting a perceived contradiction in his environmental commitments.

Mark Carrington, another community member, emphasized that the Respect Lake Tamarisk alternative would allow the Board to balance the need for renewable energy with the protection of local communities. He noted that Riverside County has the authority over project permits and could facilitate responsible development that aligns with community interests.

Vicki Buckland, also from the Active Communities of Desert Center, reiterated the community's willingness to support responsible solar energy development while stressing the importance of protecting their environment and quality of life. She invited the Board members to visit Lake Tamarisk to better understand the potential impacts of the Eastly Solar Project.

The meeting concluded with a clear message from residents advocating for their proposed alternative, which they believe would satisfy both the county's clean energy objectives and the community's need for preservation. The Board's next steps regarding the project and the proposed alternative remain to be determined.