(KNZA)--The Brown County Commission has unanimously adopted a zoning regulation that prohibits the development of commercial solar energy projects in the county, unless they meet certain criteria.
The Commission took the action at their November 26th meeting.
The county Planning Commission had recommended adoption of the zoning regulation following a public hearing in October.
The zoning regulation would prohibit solar energy projects unless they are less than 12 acres in size and separated by at least 15 miles from any other such project.
Projects meeting those criteria may be approved as conditional uses by the County Commission following Planning Commission recommendation.
The resolution will take effect upon publication in the official county newspaper.
Earlier in the meeting, County resident Laura Fortmeyer met with the commission to voice her concerns about the proposed solar energy zoning regulation, saying she believes its too restrictive.
County Commissioner Richard Tesoriero told Fortmeyer the commission is not against solar projects, but wants to make sure there are guidelines that have to be followed.
Earlier this year, the County Commission adopted a zoning regulation that would prohibit the development of commercial wind energy projects in the county.
