Tero Solar 2232 review moves forward; public hearing postponed after environmental concerns

The Charlotte County Board of Supervisors reviewed a 2232 submittal for a large Tero Solar project and agreed not to take final action at the meeting after staff and the applicant requested the public hearing be postponed.

Planning staff and the planning commission found the proposal to be in compliance with the county’s comprehensive plan, though the planning commission’s recommendation was not unanimous. Anthony Bologna, an attorney representing Tero Solar, attended and said he was available to answer questions but did not present additional materials.

Several board members and residents raised concerns about cumulative construction impacts and environmental protections. PK Curtis, a McKeesville resident, urged the board to incorporate guidance from the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, including vegetated riparian buffers and compliance with HB 206’s mitigation requirements. Curtis said the courthouse solar project and other proposed solar developments cut across sensitive features including streams, wetlands, high‑quality forest and a Native American historical site, and he asked the board to replicate a recent HB 206 presentation for supervisors and planners so they understand mitigation and conservation‑easement options.

Staff told the board the applicant requested and agreed to move the public hearing to August (staff and the board referenced August 21). The board did not vote on the 2232 review at the meeting and will consider the matter at the scheduled public hearing.

Board chair expressed concerns about adding new projects while earlier ones remain under construction and cautioned about traffic and road damage if construction timelines overlap. Anthony Bologna said he was present to answer questions.

Next step: the public hearing on the Tero Solar 2232 submittal will be held in August as scheduled and the board will take public testimony and consider final action then.