Barry County committee backs resolution opposing MPSC zoning preemption

The Barry County Committee of the Whole on Dec. 3 recommended that the full Board of Commissioners adopt Resolution #24-27, a measure opposing a Michigan Public Service Commission order the committee said would preempt local zoning for siting utility-scale solar, wind and energy storage projects.

The committee voted to forward the resolution after a motion by Commissioner Mike Callton, seconded by Commissioner Bob Teunessen; the motion carried with all ayes and one absence (Commissioner David Jackson). The resolution was characterized by proponents as siding with a group of municipalities pursuing an appeal to preserve “local control” over zoning decisions for large energy projects.

Why it matters: the resolution frames the dispute as one of local zoning authority versus state-level regulation of utility project siting. Backers argued that local governments should retain the ability to regulate land use and siting of large-scale energy infrastructure, while opponents (not present in committee discussion) have contended that statewide consistency is needed to support energy planning.

The committee’s action was followed by brief public comment in which Sheriff Leaf told the board he was proud of them for passing the resolution. The Committee of the Whole forwarded the recommendation to the Board of Commissioners for consideration and possible adoption at the board level.

Next steps: the resolution will be considered by the full Board of Commissioners; the committee record shows the recommendation only and does not itself change zoning law or alter the pending litigation.