County board approves site plan for solar energy facility in District 9 after resident concerns

The Winnebago County Board voted on Jan. 23 to grant site approval for a solar energy facility commonly identified as 5626 Tipple Road and 5303 Dialette Road in County Board District 9.

County Board Member Webster introduced the ordinance and moved approval; the motion passed with two board members recorded in opposition. The site is listed under PIN 15-17-100-008.

Nut graf: The discussion combined standard zoning review with public comment and direct engagement between county members and the project representative, reflecting both local interest in renewable energy development and neighborhood concerns about project commitments.

County Board Member Penny, who said he had spoken to residents and the developer, told the board he supported the project but pledged to monitor future implementation. “Plain and simple that as a county, we look to business partners like Trajectory to hold up their end of the bargain,” Penny said. He said he had pledged to residents to help address issues that might arise.

The record shows two board members — Tesone and Webster — recorded as opposed when the clerk asked for opposing votes. The clerk then directed remaining members to cast “yes” votes. The ordinance passed and will proceed as the county’s site approval for a solar energy facility.

Ending: The zoning committee noted the next committee meeting is Feb. 25 and the zoning board of appeals meets Feb. 12. No additional conditions or mitigation measures beyond those in the ordinance were read into the public record at the meeting.