Resident warns commissioners that industrial solar could lower property values and harm roads

Joanne Jackson of 907 Road 2, Fairmont, addressed the York County Board of Commissioners during public comment to urge scrutiny of large solar projects proposed near farmland.

Jackson cited research and commentary — including a column by Herbert M. Eckerlin and a multi-state appraisal study referenced by an MAI appraiser — asserting that industrial solar farms can reduce neighboring property values by "as much as 15 to 20%" and that solar farms require substantially more land than traditional power plants because of intermittent generation. She also noted she had been told the local Stone Creek project would include no batteries and questioned who would charge batteries if they were included. "What they're really anxious to get these solar farm applications approved as soon as possible," she said, attributing motivation to a 30% federal tax credit.

Jackson said if the K Junction project is approved "our farm will have activity within a mile of us from all 4 directions," and voiced concerns about road conditions and environmental erosion if heavy equipment increases traffic on minimum-maintenance roads.

Board response and next steps: Commissioners acknowledged the comments and thanked Jackson for attending; the item remained public comment and no formal zoning decision or action was taken at the meeting. Staff and planning and zoning have previously held joint meetings on the project and commissioners indicated the matter will be considered through the normal review process.

Context and caveats: Jackson summarized third-party research and opinion; the board did not adjudicate the claims at the meeting. The transcript records statements by Jackson and references to studies; the board did not offer an independent appraisal or a technical review on the record.