Middlesex supervisors deadlock on KDC Solar appeal, special exception and siting agreement for 20 MW project

Middlesex County supervisors on June 10 failed to approve three motions tied to a proposed 20‑megawatt utility‑scale solar facility on the Crittendon family farm in Deltaville, leaving the Planning Commission’s unanimous denial in place. The board voted on (1) an appeal contesting the Planning Commission’s finding that the project was not in substantial accord with the Middlesex County Comprehensive Plan; (2) the special exception needed under the county zoning ordinance for a utility‑scale solar facility; and (3) the siting agreement that would have specified one‑time and recurring community payments. Each motion ended in a tied roll call and therefore failed.

The Planning Commission had unanimously (8–0) determined on April 10 that KDC Solar Deltaville’s application was not in substantial accord with the county comprehensive plan, citing, according to the planning record and public testimony, the project’s proximity to established residential development and concerns about screening, runoff and long‑term impacts. County planning staff reversed that view in its report and recommended approval of the special exception and a finding of substantial accord; the applicant and its consultants also urged supervisors to approve the project.

At the board meeting,…