Buckeye Reporter

Ohio Representative Tracy Richardson stated that the Pleasant Township community "truly came together" to voice their concerns about the proposed Chestnut Solar farm "in front of representatives from the Power Siting Board." Richardson made these comments on Facebook following her attendance at a hearing held on April 29.

"Tonight the people of Pleasant Township spoke! It was a four hour meeting where over 30 individuals provided meaningful and heartfelt 5 minute testimonies in front of representatives from the Power Siting Board. The community truly came together! I support the concerns of my residents," said Rep. Tracy Richardson, according to Facebook.

Approximately 100 residents attended the Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) hearing concerning the proposed Chestnut Solar facility. The OPSB staff recommended denying the construction certificate required to initiate the project. This recommendation was based on the solar company's failure to meet at least one of eight statutory criteria necessary for approval.

Tracy Richardson Post | Facebook

Following the hearing, Catherine Eblin, a concerned resident, shared her thoughts about the project's future on her Facebook page. She stated, "Now, the Ohio Power Siting Board needs use common sense, make the right decision, abide by their Mission Statement, and deny Chestnut Solar’s case! Our Pleasant community has a bond that won’t be broken!"

Public opposition to the Chestnut Solar project is backed by local elected officials. As reported by Mario Star, early last year, Marion County Commissioners passed a resolution opposing the proposed facility. The commissioners' resolution declared that "the construction and operation of the Facility would be incompatible with the general health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Marion County, and therefore would not serve the public interest, convenience, and necessity of the residents of the County."

The next stage in this process is an evidentiary hearing before an administrative law judge scheduled for May 20, 2024 at Public Utilities Commission of Ohio. Once this is concluded, OPSB will make a determination regarding Chestnut Solar's application at a subsequent meeting.

Currently in her third term as an Ohio House Representative last year, Richardson's priorities include limiting government and fostering economic prosperity in Ohio.