Adams County Board and Ursa Residents Grill Solar Company on Proposed Project

The Adams County Board together with the residents of Ursa engaged with representatives from Ursa Creek Solar about the proposed solar farm in their locality during a recent public hearing.

In Quincy, Adams County Board members along with Ursa residents sought answers from Ursa Creek Solar regarding their solar farm initiative.

The previous week, Ursa residents gathered with Ursa Creek Solar to discuss a proposed solar farm development in their village. Then, on Thursday evening, a public hearing was convened at the Adams County Courthouse, providing the Adams County Board an opportunity to question the company.

“We adhere to the statute. We are governed by the solar siting statute,” explained company representative Desiree Noisette.

During the hearing, the Adams County Board delved into various aspects of the project, questioning company representatives extensively. Following this, many Ursa residents expressed their reservations about the project, urging the board to deny the company’s request to proceed with construction.

“Please don’t treat this like a routine application. Don’t equate it with other solar farms you may have approved in Adams County. This one is unique,” stated Ursa resident Tim Hightower.

One pressing issue for Ursa residents is the fear of property values decreasing if the solar farm is established. In response, Ursa Creek Solar presented a real estate appraiser who testified that similar projects had not caused a dip in property values.

Another key concern involved the property owner who had made a deal with Ursa Creek Solar to use their land. Tim Hightower pointed out that the agreement was made without notifying the city.

The meeting stretched over four hours and concluded after 10 p.m.