Karen Kilby raises concerns over solar panel farm impact on water and property values

In the heart of Iredell County, a passionate debate unfolded during the Planning Board meeting on June 4, 2025, as residents voiced their concerns over a proposed solar panel farm. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as community members expressed fears about the potential impact on their homes, health, and environment.

Karen Kilby, a long-time resident, stood before the board, her voice trembling with urgency. “I don’t want to see it. I don’t want to hear it,” she declared, reflecting the sentiments of many who fear that the solar farm could disrupt their way of life. Kilby painted a vivid picture of dreams and aspirations, urging attendees to consider the long-term effects of such developments on families and their futures. “Watch them work 35 years to achieve it, pray over it, cry over it, rejoice over it, and then destroy it,” she lamented, emphasizing the emotional toll of losing cherished dreams.

Kilby’s concerns extended beyond personal feelings; she raised alarms about the accuracy of maps provided to residents, questioning whether their homes were adequately represented. She also highlighted health risks associated with electromagnetic fields (EMF), particularly for her son, who has a medical condition that makes him sensitive to such exposures. “What about pacemakers and things like that?” she asked, seeking reassurance from the board.

Water quality was another pressing issue. Kilby, who relies on well water, expressed fears that the solar farm could jeopardize their water supply, particularly near Rocky Creek. “I don’t want to have to worry about my grandkids getting water out of the spigot,” she said, voicing a common concern among residents about the potential depletion of local aquifers due to the demands of solar energy production.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the community's apprehensions were rooted in a desire to protect their homes and preserve their way of life. Residents like Kilby are not just opposing a project; they are advocating for their families' futures and the integrity of their environment. The discussions at the Planning Board meeting underscored a critical moment for Iredell County, as the community grapples with the balance between renewable energy initiatives and the preservation of local values and resources. The outcome of this debate will undoubtedly shape the landscape of the county for years to come.