Local residents voice concerns over proposed solar panel farm in Cool Brook

The Iredell County Planning Board convened on June 4, 2025, to discuss significant community concerns regarding a proposed solar panel farm. The meeting featured a series of public comments from local residents, highlighting the potential impact of the project on their lives and properties.

The first speaker, a local landowner, expressed frustration over the lengthy process leading to the proposal, which has been in development for over a year and a half. He emphasized the financial strain of maintaining a farm and the necessity of exploring alternative income sources, such as the solar project. He noted that the current income from deer hunting leases is insufficient to cover rising taxes, especially as he approaches retirement. The speaker underscored that the solar field could jeopardize their farm tax rate, although he acknowledged that they would still retain some forested land.

Following this, Joni Bandy shared a personal narrative about her family's dream of rural living, which they achieved by purchasing 29 acres. She articulated her concerns about the solar farm, stating it would disrupt their lifestyle and community ties. Bandy passionately argued that the project would destroy the dreams her family worked hard to build, expressing a desire to preserve the tranquility and natural beauty of their surroundings.

Bandy also raised questions about the accuracy of maps provided to residents regarding the solar project, indicating that her home was not marked on them. She voiced apprehensions about potential electromagnetic fields (EMF) associated with the solar panels, further illustrating the community's unease about the project.

The meeting continued with additional speakers lined up to voice their opinions, reflecting a strong community sentiment against the solar farm proposal. The Planning Board is expected to consider these public comments as they deliberate on the future of the project, which has sparked significant local interest and concern.