Village adopts resolution objecting to proposed solar facility near Manhattan Road and Cherry Hill Road

The Village of Manhattan approved a resolution Feb. 4 formally objecting to a special‑use permit application for a proposed solar facility at the southeast corner of Manhattan Road and Cherry Hill Road in unincorporated Will County.

A trustee told the board the village’s comprehensive plan designates the parcel for future commercial development and expressed concern that a leased solar facility—potentially in place for up to 40 years—could disrupt the area’s planned commercial growth. The resolution specifically objects to the special‑use permit sought from Will County for property within 1½ miles of Manhattan’s corporate limits.

After brief discussion, trustees moved and approved the resolution by roll call. The board recorded unanimous yes votes from those present. The resolution registers the village’s formal objection with county review but does not prohibit solar facilities in general, a trustee said.

No developer representatives spoke during the village discussion, and details in the meeting packet about the applicant’s proposal beyond location and lease term were not provided in the transcript.