Update on Gravel Pit Solar Expansion – Straw Poll Vote On Thursday, February 19, the Connecticut Siting Council held its straw poll vote on the proposed expansion of Gravel Pit Solar (Docket 492A). A straw poll is not the final decision, but it shows the direction the Council is leaning ahead of the final vote in March. All members voted unanimously to approve the expansion — with conditions. The condition? Two parcels will be eliminated from the project. These parcels had the most direct impact on nearby residents (abutters). That change did not happen by accident. It happened because of public pressure, expert testimony, and your voices. But is this enough? No. Removing two parcels does not change the broader reality: • Hundreds of acres of prime farmland and forest would still be permanently converted to industrial use. • The cumulative environmental impact remains significant. • The public benefit does not outweigh the long-term loss to East Windsor and the Tobacco Valley. We have until February 26 to continue submitting public comments before the final decision. Intervenors will also be filing final Findings of Fact and a Closing Brief. The fight is not over. Please do not assume that because some changes were made, the issue is resolved. The partial concession shows that they are listening — but only when pressure is applied. Developers continue targeting East Windsor because they believe they can secure approvals here. That narrative changes when the community speaks clearly and in large numbers. This is the final window to influence the record before the March vote. 📧 Email the Connecticut Siting Council: siting.council@ct.gov Subject: Docket 492A Your email becomes part of the official record. It is now or never. If you signed this petition, please take two minutes to send a comment. Numbers matter. Voices matter. This town matters. We will not stop fighting.