The Starke County Commissioners and members of the Starke County Planning Commission met in a public joint session Wednesday night to discuss possible changes to the county’s Solar Energy Ordinance.
They identified three items for clarification purposes. They would like to see the parcel setback moved from the foundation of a home to the property line. They discussed a 600 foot setback from a property line, which could have various impacts on projects.
The commissioners and Planning Commission members would also like clarification on what “prohibitive costs” are concerning the installation of connection wires and which entity would be responsible in making that determination.
Notification of property owners of potential solar projects was also included as a discussion issue and they talked about increasing efforts to enhance the reach of people who are notified and how that notification is delivered to homeowners beyond the legal requirements.
The legality of limiting the size of solar projects and the allowable acreage will also be looked into, as well as battery and energy storage, repair of field tile, and insurance and clean-up bonds as more work continues on potential amendments.
Starke County Attorney Marty Lucas noted that the commissioners have decided to work with Barnes and Thornburg experts in looking into this ordinance. The law firm may also seek the expertise of engineers in assisting the county with certain questions surrounding setbacks and prohibitive costs in order for county officials to make the best decision with information available.
While changes could be made to the ordinance in future public meetings, projects that have already been based off the current ordinance may follow the way it already exists.
No decisions were made Wednesday night by either county entity. The members will continue to work to solve their concerns.
A link to the current ordinance can be found here.
