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Ingham County approves host‑community agreement for 90‑MW Acceleration Solar project
Summary
The Ingham County Board of Commissioners approved a host‑community agreement with Acceleration Solar LLC for a proposed 90‑MW solar facility, accepting $2,000 per megawatt (one‑time $180,000). Commissioners discussed directing funds toward impacted townships; Chairperson Sebolt disclosed prior work on Public Act 233.
The Ingham County Board of Commissioners voted July 28 to enter into a County Host Community Agreement with Acceleration Solar LLC for a proposed 90‑megawatt solar energy facility spanning parcels in Vevay, Leslie and Onondaga townships. The agreement implements the benefit authorized under Public Act 233 of 2023: $2,000 per megawatt in a one‑time payment, totaling $180,000 to Ingham County upon project commencement.
Commissioner Schafer urged the county to direct proceeds to the townships that will host the project, saying the townships were “bearing the burden of the solar farm” and that the Court of Appeals decision had clarified the county’s status as an affected local unit. Chairperson Sebolt disclosed they had previously worked on Public Act 233 as part of their day job, noting that the settlement negotiated with MPSC staff and the townships establishes minimum project conditions to be filed with the Michigan Public Service Commission.
The resolution (Res. #26‑355) was moved and supported and carried unanimously with Commissioner Lawrence absent. Discussion at the meeting focused on who should receive or administer the benefit payments; some commissioners suggested reserving funds for the directly affected townships, while others noted statutory limits and the need to follow the settlement terms when finalized. The Board authorized the Chairperson to sign documents consistent with the agreement after County Attorney review.
Next steps include finalization and filing of the settlement with the Michigan Public Service Commission as part of the certificate process and receipt of the one‑time payment upon project commencement. The Board said it will consider budget or policy directions for allocating funds after confirming the settlement details and statutory obligations.
