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The Sun-Gazette article, "Solar Farm Owners Sue Old Lycoming Township Supervisors...", told part of the story -- but it left out the voices of residents who objected to this commercial solar farm in our neighborhood. It also failed to mention that several residents felt the Township Supervisors made a genuine effort to protect the interests of their community.
Although our township is zoned agricultural/rural, the proposed site is surrounded by approximately 20 homes, either adjoining or in close proximity. The Supervisors' decision to approve the conditional use included setback requirements that are less than those recommended by the World Health Organization and GoSolarFloridaState.org. Understandably, nearby property owners are concerned about how this project will affect their property values. The majority of us who attended the hearing opposed having this large-scale commercial development in our neighborhood altogether.
New Leaf Energy's attorney, Jeffrey Malak, argues that the proposed setbacks of 20 to 65 feet are sufficient. However, those standards may apply to a home, shed, or garage--not to a commercial development made up of acres of industrial-looking solar panels. Residents will face ongoing construction, maintenance, and unfamiliar personnel coming and going. In fact, we've already experienced unsettling behavior, such as a drone being flown within feet of a private home--an invasive and threatening trespass. Although New Leaf Energy claimed they would investigate the incident, no follow-up ever occurred.
Without formal zoning regulations in place, did New Leaf Energy assume this project in our neighborhood would proceed unchallenged? Our community deserves better.
DAVID ROSEQUIST
Old Lycoming Township
Submitted by Virtual Newsroom