Commission seeks narrower language for Light Industrial East height exception for transmission lines and substations

During the Feb. 5 meeting, the commission reviewed a draft change that would except electrical transmission lines, substations and related equipment from the 35-foot height cap in the Light Industrial East zone for large solar or energy projects. Several commissioners and staff expressed concern that the proposed language was too broad and could be read to allow unrelated tall equipment or structures.

Staff and commissioners discussed what the exception should cover. Commissioners asked staff to limit the exception to structures and equipment specifically required for transmission and substation functions (poles, towers, transformers, capacitor banks and other equipment integral to transmission safety and operation), and not to allow unrelated tall "equipment" without additional review. Staff noted that substations and their components can require taller structures for safety and voltage regulation but agreed to refine the language so it does not permit unrelated uses to exceed height limits.

Commissioners asked staff to coordinate with the applicant and electrical experts and to bring a clarified sentence to the Feb. 18 public hearing packet. The commission placed the Light Industrial East text amendment on the Feb. 18 public-hearing agenda to allow public comment and to permit staff and commissioners to refine definitions and criteria prior to any final vote.