Board narrows solar siting: ordinance amended to require special exception in M‑3 zoning

The Board of Supervisors on Aug. 12 voted to amend the county zoning ordinance so that utility‑scale solar facilities are permitted only by special exception in the M‑3 heavy industrial zoning district rather than by right in multiple zoning districts.

Planner Graves told the board the amendment modifies specific sections of the zoning code (references provided in staff slides) to move solar approvals into a special‑exception process for M‑3. The Planning Commission had prepared the amendment at the board’s request and recommended approval after a public hearing.

During the public input portion, resident Rick Tetherton supported solar broadly — particularly rooftop installations over farmland — and raised questions about funding and long‑term responsibilities if solar panels are installed on public facilities such as schools. Chairman Brown clarified that the amendment keeps solar allowed in M‑3 but subjects it to a special‑exception review rather than allowing it by right, giving the board and the Planning Department an opportunity to evaluate site‑specific impacts during the special‑exception process.

The motion to approve the ordinance amendment passed by roll call. The change does not prohibit solar in industrial areas but moves siting decisions into a discretionary public hearing process so the board and neighbors can review proposed projects and conditions.

Provenance: Planning staff presentation began at 00:41:24; public comments and board discussion occurred through 00:49:50; roll call vote at 00:49:59.