OVID TOWNSHIP, MI (WTVB) – A decision on a proposed solar project in Ovid Township will wait until after the new year.
The Ovid Township Township Board put off a vote on a Special Land Use request concerning the Apex Solar-Coldwater River Solar Project on Monday night in order to sort out and gather more information.
The Township Board is not scheduled to meet again until Monday, January 9, 2023.
As expected, the Monday night meeting which lasted for almost two hours attracted a large audience
The applicants are requesting approval of the Site Plan and Special Land Use Permits required for development of the project covering over 1,100 acres on 14 parcels which are on agricultural land. They are bordered by Fenn Road to the north, Central Road to the south, Fillmore Road to the east and South Behnke Road to the west.
The request was previously approved by the Ovid Township Planning Commission.
Some Ovid Township residents are opposed to the large solar project as they have concerns about potential impacts on agricultural land and property values.
Backers claim that if the project is built, Coldwater Solar is expected to generate up to $21 million in new tax revenue for Coldwater and Ovid Townships as well as for county services and local school districts including Coldwater Community Schools.
Supporters also claim the project will create hundreds of new clean energy jobs during construction and several permanent positions for ongoing operations of the facility.
Yes solar panels add a nice touch to the landscape. Especially if it’s on the properties of the people pushing them. Otherwise put them in your own backyard.