By Andi Anderson
Several townships in Trumbull County, Ohio have voted to prohibit the construction of large wind and solar farms. The move comes in response to Ohio Senate Bill 52, which gives counties and local communities the authority to regulate these facilities.
Weathersfield Township was one of the latest townships to join the movement, with trustees voting unanimously to prohibit large and economically significant solar farms. Other townships that have taken similar action include Vienna, Mecca, and Kinsman.
There are a variety of reasons why townships are choosing to prohibit wind and solar farms. Some residents are concerned about the visual impact of these facilities, while others worry about the potential impact on property values and wildlife. There are also concerns about the noise and dust generated by wind and solar farms.
However, not all townships in Trumbull County are opposed to wind and solar farms. Kinsman Township, for example, voted against designating any of its land as a restricted area for the construction of these facilities. Trustees in Kinsman said they felt that much of the land in their township is already restricted and that the zoning resolution adequately addresses the usage of township property.
The Trumbull County commissioners will meet in early November to consider the survey results from the townships. If a majority of townships vote to prohibit wind and solar farms, the commissioners will likely adopt a resolution designating the county as a restricted area.
This is a significant development for Trumbull County, as it is one of the first counties in Ohio to take steps to prohibit wind and solar farms. The move is likely to be closely watched by other counties in the state, as well as by the wind and solar industries.
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Categories: Ohio, Energy