Mitchell County imposes nine‑month moratorium on utility‑scale solar projects

The Mitchell County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously on Nov. 12 to impose a temporary nine‑month moratorium on development, construction and permit applications for utility‑scale solar energy conversion systems.

A board member reading Resolution 1326‑25 defined a utility‑scale solar system as "an electrical generating facility comprised of one or more solar arrays with the ability of producing 1 megawatt of electricity" and said the moratorium would take effect immediately upon adoption. The resolution says the pause is intended to allow the county time to "adopt an ordinance that balances the rights of property owners seeking to have utility scale solar energy conversion system on their property and be mindful of the health and safety of others."

During discussion planners and zoning staff were asked about the status of an ordinance; staff (Amanda) said the work had been sent to a planner and remained in process. A supervisor clarified that the moratorium "has no effect on any solar facilities that have already been put in place." The resolution also reserves the board's right to end the moratorium earlier if a satisfactorily developed ordinance is adopted.

Board members who supported the measure said the county currently lacks a utility‑scale solar ordinance and needs a regulatory framework before additional large projects proceed. The vote followed a motion, a second and a roll call in which board members recorded 'Aye.'

Next steps: planning and zoning will continue drafting the ordinance while the moratorium is in place; the board may extend the pause by further resolution or lift it sooner if the ordinance is completed.