(Versailles, IN) – Ripley County Commissioners this week voted unanimously to codify the proposed solar ordinance that they sent back to the Area Plan Commission with additional amendments likely needed.
They also extended the moratorium on solar installation applications.
Kendall Hankins says he and fellow Commissioners Mark Horstman and Chris Schmaltz support going with state setbacks.
“But the understanding is we still want to look a little deeper into it and see what impact it would have on folks,” Hankins said. “There are some folks who have property that are interested in signing up for the option (lease their land for solar installation) and there are some neighbors who are concerned about the distance that this might be from a residence, and we’re trying to evaluate what’s the most practical plan and meet as many needs of both sides as possible.”
Attorney Blaine Timonera represents property owners south of Batesville who live near proposed solar installations, and says they’re encouraged that further discussions will take place.
“They trust the governing process and the word of the commissioners and the intent of the commissioners after the turn of the year to make the proper adjustments before the final one goes into effect and the end of the moratorium occurs,” Timonera said.
The issue first garnered attention back in May, when Timonera’s clients voiced concerns about solar farms sprouting near their residences and properties.
The commissioners first meeting in 2024 will be on Friday, Jan. 5 at 1 pm.
