Planning commission recommends denial of US Solar / MMPA 3.5 MW solar project citing wetlands and screening concerns

The Sherburne County Planning Commission on Wednesday recommended denial of a proposed comprehensive plan amendment and an interim use permit (IUP) for a 3.5‑megawatt solar farm proposed by Minnesota Municipal Power Agency (MMPA) with US Solar as project implementer.

Planning staff described a 38‑acre property where the applicant proposes a ~30‑acre solar array with single‑axis tracking panels and a 40‑year IUP. Staff told the commission a wetland delineation found eight wetlands on site and said the applicant pursued de minimis and no‑loss approvals as part of the state wetland review. Staff also summarized proposed mitigation: a perimeter, non‑electric 7‑foot fence; roadside and interior plantings (rows of eastern red cedars and native understory planting); underground interconnection; and a construction schedule targeting 2026.

The project drew extensive public comment from nearby residents who argued the site is adjacent to a 23‑lot subdivision, hosts significant wildlife and wetland habitat, and that screening and berms would not meaningfully mitigate visual impacts. Paul Olsen and others said the parcels proximity to homes would materially reduce property values and disrupt wildlife corridors; several speakers urged tabling or denial rather than approval. One commenter noted MMPA paid substantially more than the county assessment for the parcel, raising local concern about financial leverage in negotiations.

Applicant representatives said MMPA is a wholesale public utility and that the project had undergone TEP/DNR wetland review and refinement. Tina Munson of US Solar said the team had modified the design to address wetlands and would coordinate construction and access with public works; the applicant also asked the county to consider waiving or reducing a standard decommissioning escrow because MMPA is a public entity.

Commissioners debated findings required for an IUP. Several members concluded the project would be injurious to the enjoyment of neighboring properties and could create a visual nuisance; others noted the sites wetlands and questioned whether screening would be adequate given topography. After discussing required findings and reasons for the record, the commission voted to deny the comprehensive plan amendment and the interim use permit and will forward its recommendation to the County Board on March 17, 2026.

Staff reminded attendees that the commissions action is a recommendation and that the County Board will make the final decision.