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Huron County Planning Commission Reviews Solar Acreage And Conflict Concerns
Russ Survance
Sun, 26 Oct 2025 05:21:07 EDT
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The Huron County Planning Commission met October 1st in Bad Axe to discuss solar development limits and related community concerns.
Residents from several townships voiced opposition to large-scale wind, solar, and battery projects, citing farmland preservation, environmental, and fire safety concerns. Multiple speakers called for stronger soil testing rules and more transparency, while others raised possible conflict-of-interest issues among county officials.
Commission members reviewed guidance from state universities and legislative materials, including PA 233 of 2023, which governs renewable energy projects. A motion to cap county-zoned solar development at 1,500 acres failed for lack of support, with members continuing to debate how to determine a fair limit.
The board also approved twelve PA 116 farmland preservation applications spanning properties in Brookfield, Dwight, Caseville, Meade, and Sherman townships.
During final public comments, residents urged the commission to prioritize local voices over utility interests and to disclose any potential conflicts. Commissioner Kim Rosenthal noted that conflict-of-interest rules are outlined in the bylaws and must be applied case by case.
The meeting adjourned at 9:08 p.m. The next Planning Commission meeting is scheduled for November 5th at 7 p.m. in Room 305 of the Huron County Building.
