Holt County Supervisors approve solar conversion system CUP

Holt County Supervisors gave the nod to VRDG, LLC, for construction of a commercial solar conversion system, following a public hearing held Monday in O'Neill.

Opponents expressed concerns about setbacks, environmental issues and health concerns, while proponents touted the tax advantages, seeing the system as a way to keep the family farm viable.

The 325-megawatt nameplate capacity site will cover 300 Holt County acres, with the balance of construction set to take place in Knox County. It is expected to generate more than $1,300,000 in new tax revenue, with $272,000 going to Holt County.

Dick Wallace, of O'Neill, said he's concerned about how the business will find workers to fill the 250 positions expected during construction. He said the Holt County Economic Development website currently lists 98 open positions in the county.

"Where are we going to get the workers? They'll have to move in. That money's going to leave the county," he said.

Neva and Dan Doerr, of Creighton, spoke about placement of panels near a feedlot, land her grandparents' homesteaded.

She claimed solar power does not help people.

"There is a consequence if you're around radiation too much, what happens. What are you going to do with them when they get old and they're no longer useful?" She asked. "Why not put them where the need is?"

Rollie Pudenz, of rural Plainview, spoke in favor, suggesting using the nameplate capacity taxes for daycare, instead of sending it to the schools.

Attorney David Levy, representing VRDG, LLC, said the nameplate taxes are set by state statute.

Jeff Uhlir, a Knox County resident, said the valuation of his land has increased 300% in three years, making farming unproductive.

"So I picked a crop that doesn't contaminate the water or soil, that's 100% recyclable. No red blinking light. No noise. Doesn't require water," he said. "I'm trying to find a way to stay on the farm so I don't have to sell it to a corporation."

Bluestem Energy representative Matt Robinette addressed citizen concerns about the silicone wafers the panels are comprised of.

"There are no hazardous materials used," he told supervisors.

Robinette said a corridor for wildlife will be included in the design. A Columbus-based environmental consultant has conducted a Phase 1 study.

Supervisor Doug Frahm asked the height of the fence surround the array.

Robinette said it will be at ground level.

After several minutes of discussion, Darrin Paxton made a to approve the conditional use permit, with a second from Scott Keyes.

Frahm said he wasn't in favor of approving the permit until he takes to the county assessor "to see how it affects our taxes."

According to Levy, the land will continue to be assessed as ag land and won't come off the tax roll.

"You get the nameplate tax on top of it," Levy said. "No loss, only gain."