Donaldson Farms is seeking to lease approximately one acre of farmland to V20 Energy, LLC, for a proposed battery energy storage facility along Allen Road in Mansfield Township. The plans include 24 battery storage units, 12 transformers, transmission lines, overhead utility infrastructure, and related equipment.

This proposal raises serious concerns for our community. In its Environmental Impact Statement, V20 Energy lists noise among the “Adverse Impacts Which Cannot Be Avoided.” The report states that the battery storage units are expected to produce a constant, low-frequency hum from cooling systems, HVAC equipment, inverters, and transformers. This raises concerns about the potential impact on the peace and quiet of nearby homes along Allen Road and Rockport Road. Residents also deserve clear answers about emergency preparedness and the potential consequences of a battery fire.

This is about more than one acre of land. It is about protecting our rural way of life, preserving farmland that has supported agriculture for generations, and considering the long-term impact on nearby families. If farmland in our community can be targeted for this type of development today, what could be next tomorrow? We must consider the possibility of a domino effect that could gradually change the character of our township and other agricultural communities.

We are calling on the Mansfield Township Land Board to carefully scrutinize this proposal and oppose its approval unless the concerns of residents, farmers, and the broader community are adequately addressed.

Join us on November 9 to stand together, protect our farmland, and preserve the peace and quiet of our neighborhood. See Mansfield Township's Land Board Meeting Agenda and V20 Documents here.