Floyd Co. Supervisors Delay Solar Development Moratorium Again

For the second week in a row, Floyd County Supervisors delayed action on enacting a moratorium on commercial solar energy systems in the county.

During the Supervisors meeting Monday (01.27), Board chair Dennis Keifer laid out basic provisions of a resolution on a moratorium until the County can update the ordinance regulating their construction.

Supervisor Boyd Campbell advised that it would be prudent to take time with a commercial solar ordinance.

Supervisor Gloria Carr said she will support a moratorium, but again cited that, because the County doesn’t have a solar ordinance, a moratorium isn’t needed since companies wouldn’t be able to build until one is in place. She also noted there’s a reason solar and wind companies like places like Floyd County.

While Campbell and Keifer stressed the need for a moratorium to address commercial solar development, they’re supportive of solar energy for private use, with many hog operations in the county utilizing solar to heat and cool their barns.   

Still, Supervisors took no action on the measure as they seek more clarification on the resolution’s language.

Meanwhile, Campbell, part of the mediation committee working on a compromise  on the County’s wind and battery storage ordinance, says the group met last week and will meet at least one more time as they work towards a deadline of no later than March 3rd for the third reading of the ordinance.