Chester Power advocates lifting solar moratorium to boost Crawford County investment

The Crawford County Live Meeting held on May 9, 2025, focused primarily on the proposed solar project by Chester Power and the ongoing solar moratorium affecting the county. John Kopiak, representing Chester Power, advocated for the swift lifting of the moratorium, emphasizing the potential benefits of the project for the local community, including job creation and educational partnerships with Pittsburg State University.

Kopiak outlined that the solar project could employ approximately 200 workers over two years and would involve a significant financial investment in Crawford County. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with local schools, suggesting that students could gain hands-on experience through the project. The discussion also touched on the financial implications for local school districts, particularly the Arma and Frontenac districts, which would see increased tax revenues from the project.

A key point of contention was the tax structure associated with the solar panels and battery storage. Kopiak explained that while the solar panels would benefit from a 10-year tax abatement under Kansas state law, the battery components would be fully taxable. This distinction raised questions among county officials regarding how tax revenues would be allocated to the school districts.

County officials sought clarification on how the financial benefits would be distributed, particularly in terms of property assessments and the impact on local school funding. It was noted that the increased property values resulting from the project could enhance the local option budget (LOB) for the schools, potentially increasing their funding significantly.

The meeting also addressed the need for a comprehensive plan to guide future developments in the county, with officials expressing urgency in moving forward with the solar project and other renewable energy initiatives. A consultant was expected to provide further insights in an upcoming meeting, which would help clarify the next steps in the planning process.

Overall, the discussions underscored the potential economic and educational benefits of the solar project for Crawford County, while also highlighting the complexities of tax implications and the need for a clear framework to support local schools. The outcome of the moratorium and the subsequent decisions made by county officials will be crucial in determining the project's future and its impact on the community.