Planning commission approves New Lyme zoning changes to allow small-scale wind and solar

The Ashtabula County Planning Commission voted unanimously April 29 to accept New Lyme Township's zoning text amendment expanding rules for small-scale renewable energy.

Gus Saikaly, representing New Lyme Township, introduced the amendment and described it as adapted from other township model texts to add sections and definitions for small wind farm, small energy system, production energy facilities, and ground solar energy facilities. Jake Brand, Director of Planning and Development, told the commission the amendment aligns with the county comprehensive plan and that the Department of Planning and Development would recommend approval. A public hearing is scheduled for May 1, 2026.

Commissioner Ducro asked whether the township was acting proactively or responding to existing projects; Saikaly replied the township was trying to be proactive. Commissioner Kozlowski asked whether the zoning text included applications of wind energy and whether wind energy would be allowable across the township; Saikaly said there were no current wind projects and that wind energy would be allowable in the township. Following discussion, Ms. Friedstrom moved to accept the amendment and Commissioner Kozlowski seconded; the motion passed with all in favor.

The commission recorded the roll-call ayes as Commissioner Ducro, Ms. Friedstrom, Mr. Krieg, Commissioner Kozlowski, Ms. Krysa, Mr. Likavec, Commissioner Whittington and Mr. Douglass. The case is listed as Case 2026-001 and proceeds to the public hearing on May 1 as scheduled.