Fayette County approves multiple solar agreements, variance and permit amendment

The Fayette County Board on April 16 approved several actions clearing the way for local utility-scale solar projects, including road use agreements with Hercules Solar, LLC (east of Ramsey) and Pike Solar, LLC (west of Vandalia), approval of a Pike Solar variance, and a Stone’s Throw permit amendment.

Scott L. Ray moved and Mack Payne seconded approval of the road use agreements and the Pike variance; motions passed by roll call vote. Charlie Mamlin of Ranger Power told the board the Stone’s Throw amendment was approved by the Solar Committee contingent on the company providing updated site plans within 60 days. Ashley Towler moved to approve the Stone’s Throw amendment; Ryan Tompkins seconded. The motion passed; the minutes record Scott Workman as the lone No vote on that action.

Why it matters: the actions formalize agreements for construction and road use for multiple solar sites in Fayette County and include a timeline condition (60 days for updated plans) intended to keep project documentation current. The board also separately tabled a proposed amendment to the county solar ordinance for further review (see separate article).