Commissioners approve Source Global Phase 3 general development order for atmospheric water bottling project

Commissioners approved a general development order allowing Source Global to construct Phase 3 of a crowd‑source water bottling plant that uses hydro panels to generate potable water from atmospheric condensation.

Why it matters: the project introduces a novel water‑sourcing method in unincorporated Jackson County. The developer said the hydro panels condense atmospheric moisture, pump the collected water to an on‑site plant for filtration and bottling, and do not draw from local aquifers or surface water.

Public hearing and technical description During the required public hearing, Philip Santoro, president of Northstar Engineering Services, represented the project and described the “hydro panels” as glass‑faced panels with an internal pump and framing that will be oriented south. He said the system condenses water from air and returns it to the plant for filtration; the applicant stated that no aquifer or river water will be used for this Phase 3 installation.

Board decision After closing the public hearing and hearing no public opposition at the meeting, the board moved and seconded a motion to approve the general development order for Source Global Phase 3. Commissioners recorded the approval on the record during the hearing.

Next steps and conditions Staff indicated standard permitting, inspection and monitoring requirements will apply; the project will need to comply with county codes related to land use and public health regulations for bottled water production. The applicant was advised to maintain filtration and sanitation standards consistent with potable‑water bottling operations.