Architectural Review Commission tables variance for 2612 Martin Drive, asks for north‑side solar output data

The Spring Grove Architectural Review Commission on Feb. 16, 2026 voted to table consideration of a variance to the village solar standards for 2612 Martin Drive until March 2, 2026, after commissioners requested additional technical information from the petitioner. Commissioner Mike Starsiak moved to table the request and Commissioner Andrew Johnson seconded; the motion passed unanimously.

Kerlyn Pen'a, representing GreenGrids Solar, described the proposal and the expected output, saying "the variance request is to install 12 panels on the front of the house and two on the side-facing garage." Pen'a told the commission the Aurora System is used to calculate local energy scenarios and that the proposal would produce a roughly 206% energy offset. Pen'a added that "most homes need to receive at least 160%-170% to cover their bill," and that some homeowners opt for higher offsets to bank net‑metering credits for winter months.

Building and Zoning Officer Bob Walczak told commissioners he had worked with the petitioners to try to move the panels to the rear (north‑facing) side of the house but had not reached a solution. Commissioners pressed for comparative output data for north‑facing placements and for corrected documentation after they noted the structure support letter contained an incorrect snow‑load rating. The commission asked GreenGrids to provide output estimates for all panels if sited on the north side and any corrected structural calculations before the March 2 hearing.

No public comment was offered at the meeting. The tabling action schedules reconsideration and leaves the variance undecided pending the additional materials requested by the commission.