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Planning board chair urges temporary moratorium on ground‑mounted solar projects
Summary
Graham Platner, chairman of the Planning Board, asked the Selectboard to adopt a temporary moratorium on new ground‑mounted solar installations to allow the town time to decide broader policy; the Town Manager will consult the town attorney and the matter was tabled for further review.
SULLIVAN, Maine — Graham Platner, chairman of the Planning Board, told the Selectboard on Oct. 1 that the town should consider a temporary moratorium on new ground‑mounted solar projects while officials craft longer‑term policy.
"This would still allow for roof‑mounted installations," Platner said, calling a moratorium a "proactive measure" while the town determines how it wants to handle solar development.
Town Manager Ray Weintraub said staff will consult the town attorney to determine the appropriate legal approach and possible timeline. The board tabled the discussion until a future meeting to allow for legal review and broader public input.
Selectmen did not vote to enact a moratorium on Oct. 1; the planning chair framed the proposal as preparatory work to avoid unintended consequences while ordinances are revised.
If the board advances a moratorium in a subsequent meeting it would likely be a temporary zoning restriction while the Planning Board drafts recommended ordinance language and holds required public hearings.
