The City of Vandalia’s Zoning Board of Appeals voted 2 to 2 on the matter of a Special Use Permit for a Solar Project at their meeting on Wednesday, rejecting the permit.
A large crowd was on hand for the meeting. Those on hand either indicated they lived in the area of the proposed solar project or were there in support of Katie and Zachary Ledbetter. The Ledbetters built a new home at 1480 N 425 Street. And, then later learned this solar project was planned for around their new home. On hand for the project were Scott Shields and Scott Novak of Birch Creek Development, along with an Engineer and Attorney. Shields told the Zoning Board the project is an 18 megawatt project that is 151 acres. They also stated this is an over $20 million investment and will created 20 jobs during construction fo the solar farm. As has been pointed out, the project was approved by the Fayette County Board in the spring of 2023. But, because the project is within 1.5 miles of the City limits of Vandalia, they also need approval from the City. Zoning Board member Dean Black asked if there were toxic materials in the solar panels. Shields stated the components of the solar panels are very safe.
Shields added the panels go through torture testing where they simulate large hail, damaging winds and other disasters to make sure they can stand up to it. It was also mentioned the project will generate about $100,000 per year in new property tax revenue. But, because the project is not within the Vandalia City Limits it will not be any added tax money for the city. But, City Attorney Ryan Connor said that was not the major factor for the board to look at.
Board member Kyle Barker questioned the potential loss of property values for those with homes in the area around the solar farm. But, the board was presented with a study showing that property values are not impacted by the solar farms, but Barker and many in the audience questioned that assessment. The question was also raised of where does the power that is generated by the solar farm go to. It was pointed out the energy goes to the Ameren grid and, because of proximity, some of the power generated would likely be used in this area. The Zoning Board then went into executive session for just under a half hour. After coming out, the board voted 2 to 2 on the matter of issuing a Special Use Permit for the project. With no way to break a tie, that means the committee rejected the permit. The vote was Dean Black and Michael Davis voting yes and Kyle Barker and Kim Shanks voting no. The decisions made by the Zoning Board are final and do not come back to the full Vandalia City Council. After the meeting, City Attorney Ryan Connor explained the next steps.
Meaning that if the Planning Commission would vote to do away with the need for a Special Use Permit and the City Council would concur, then the project could move forward. But, as of this time, the project would seem to be in limbo.
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