Jacksonville council adopts 60% on-site category in solar ordinance on second reading

The Jacksonville City Council on second reading adopted an amendment to the city's solar energy systems ordinance that adds a new 60% on-site consumption category.

Alderman Lachman read the ordinance language on the council floor and moved the measure, saying, "Be it ordained that the Jacksonville zoning ordinance, appendix H, the solar energy systems ordinance be amended adding a third category, the 60% on-site consumption category for our solar energy system." The council completed a roll-call vote with all members present voting yes.

Council members and staff briefly discussed placement of panels. One attendee asked whether the amendment addresses setbacks so panels cannot be sited in front of a business; a speaker replied that the ordinance does not create new front-yard exceptions and that normal setbacks would apply, with panels expected generally along the sides of buildings. During that exchange a council member noted panels in other communities often line main roads, prompting brief remarks about local placement and aesthetics.

The ordinance was taken up as the second-reading item under Planning and Public Works. No amendments to the language were recorded during the meeting. The council completed the required roll call and approved the second reading; the transcript did not specify an ordinance number or an effective date.

The council also conducted a separate second-reading vote on a zoning-map amendment (see related actions), but the solar ordinance was the primary planning item that drew discussion about setbacks and placement.