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Planning Commission recommends approval of SolarStone solar garden on Route 38 parcel
Summary
The Cortland Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of a Special Use Permit for SolarStone Partners to build and operate a roughly 37-acre solar garden on an 80.33-acre site north of IL Route 38; commissioners cited increased energy supply, minimal local impacts, and projected tax revenue.
Acting Chair Brad Lawson opened a public hearing April 2 on SolarStone Partners' application to construct, operate and maintain a solar garden on a parcel identified as PINs 09-27-100-002 and 09-27-300-004. Applicant Josh Marshall told the commission the panels would occupy about 37 of the site’s 80.33 acres and said the projected generation equals the needs of about 1,500 households.
The commission reviewed the standards in Title 9-10-3 and concluded the proposed use as presented would not have substantial adverse effects on adjacent properties and that proposed screening and maintenance commitments mitigated impacts. Commissioner Victoria Torres moved to approve the Special Use Permit under Title 9, Chapter 4, Section 34 of the Cortland Town Code; Commissioner Julie Steadman seconded. The roll call vote was unanimous in favor: Lawson, Torres, Steadman, Moser and Kaminski.
The staff report noted the Board of Trustees previously approved annexation but denied the special use permit, remanding the matter for the Commission’s recommendation. Zoning Administrator Brandy Williams said materials would be prepared should the applicant pursue county review as allowed by law.
Next steps include transmittal of the commission’s recommendation to the Board of Trustees and, if the town’s approval is contested, potential county consideration. The record shows no additional hearings set at the close of this meeting.
