It turns out that Stark residents offer views of large wind and photovoltaic farms

CANTON − More than 30 people attended Monday’s public hearing, with speakers evenly divided between those who want to ban solar and wind projects in Stark County and those who support future development efforts.

Stark County commissioners hosted the meeting to help gauge interest in large wind and solar projects in the municipalities. Commissioners want information on a proposed restricted area that would prevent the development of wind farms and solar installations in 14 municipalities.

The restricted area would prohibit the construction of large photovoltaic installations and large wind farms of 50 megawatts or more, as well as five to 50 megawatts of economically significant wind farms in Canton, Jackson, Lake, Lawrence, Lexington, Nimishillen, Osnaburg, Paris, Pike, Plain, Sugar Creek, Tuscarawas and Washington. In Marlboro Township, the restricted area would prohibit large solar installations and large wind farms, but would allow the construction of economically significant wind farms.

The proposed restricted area reflects municipalities’ responses to a nationwide survey of energy projects. Three municipalities: Bethlehem, Perry and Sandy have not taken any action and are not included in the restricted area.

Nationwide survey: 14 municipalities in Stark County want large solar installations and wind farms are banned. See which ones.

Commissioners will consider public comments before implementing any restrictions.

Local unions come into force at hearing wind, sun

Representatives and members of trade unions of workers, electricians and operational engineers spoke in favor of large wind and photovoltaic projects.

They said that such investments are good for the economy and create jobs.

“We need more electricity here in Ohio to meet our energy needs,” said Erik Hann of Louisville, business manager for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 540. “We need a comprehensive approach that includes fossil fuels, nuclear and renewable energy. all of them.”

Hann said banning wind and solar power would force Stark County to “put all its eggs in one basket.”

During his public appearance, Hann asked people in the crowd who were “pro-jobs or pro-renewable energy” to stand.

“These are all the people who will be building these new solar panels,” he said, “and we are asking you not to close Stark County for business reasons.”

When I called him after the meeting, he said he was pleased with the turnout and support.

“It was absolutely amazing, the solidarity between electricians, workers and operators, I was impressed.” he said. “It shows how important this work is to our members… to have these large renewable energy projects in their backyard.”

Members of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 540, Workers Union 1015 and the Ohio Operating Engineers Union attended the hearing.

Farmers and landowners express concerns

Many community residents spoke during the meeting to express concerns about property values, environmental impacts and potential impacts on local farmers.

Laura Schmucker, who lives on a farm in Washington Township, said the land in that township was best suited for farming. She said large energy projects should be implemented in other areas, preferably on undeveloped land.

“People are there (in Washington Township) because they like the rural atmosphere, they’re there for the clean water and the community,” she said after the hearing. “We don’t want to compromise on these issues.”

Laura’s husband, Danny Schmucker, also spoke at the hearing. In his public comment, he expressed doubts whether land used for solar and wind energy could be returned to agricultural land after the project closes. He said he was concerned about potential damage to the land.

After the meeting, Commissioner Bill Smith said he agreed with their argument. Energy projects could be looked elsewhere to accommodate wind and solar power, he said, citing three municipalities that would not be restricted under the proposed plan.

“Residents in their area seem to be strongly opposed to this. We only have so much agricultural land,” he said. “I think there are plenty of other places in the county where they can look for projects.”

Smith said commissioners will take time to consider public input and possibly reach out to some speakers if necessary. He said he expects a final decision to be made at the commissioners’ regular meeting in a few weeks.

Contact Grace at 330-580-8364 or [email protected]. Follow her on X @GraceSpringer16.