Residents and county engineer raise concerns about noise, lighting and drainage at Foster Falls solar site

County engineer Mr. Ker reported field observations of the Foster Falls solar site during the March 2 Wythe County Planning Commission meeting and relayed nearby residents' complaints about lighting, drainage and noise.

Mr. Ker described progress at the Foster Falls site: panels are largely stabilized and the ponds have been converted to stormwater basins with riser control; he noted that the site’s battery system "has been approved but it's not an indefinite approval. So there's a there's a time limit on it," and said staff would check the length of that approval.

Residents and participants raised three recurring operational concerns. One resident said the site has multiple bright lights that "point right directly into the back of my house," interfering with sleep and routine. Another raised a drainage issue on Castleton Road that staff said they would check. Several participants described a piercing noise that they attributed to transformers; Mr. Ker acknowledged transformer noise can be noticeable.

Mr. Ker also described related site issues: sheep grazing has caused localized erosion in stabilized areas, DEQ permit requirements for riprap and inlet protection are being followed, and the site's bond and pending DEQ termination status leave some permit matters in limbo while the operator seeks final approvals and additional funding.

What was said and what happens next: Mr. Ker said the battery plan approval is time‑limited and that staff will verify the permit's expiration and any conditions. Staff committed to checking into the drainage complaint on Castleton Road and to monitoring noise and lighting complaints; the transcript records staff offering to follow up if staff "can't answer it" at the forum. The record does not show any regulatory action or formal vote at the meeting; enforcement or permit modifications would depend on DEQ, permit conditions and future staff or board action.