On June 22 at 7pm, Staunton City Council will vote on whether to allow a special use permit to build a solar farm at 801 Commerce Road.  There has been some public outcry about how this solar farm is not good for the city of Staunton, but the reality is much different:

"But it will ruin the beautiful landscape and the views from my property"

In reality, this project will affect approximately 6 houses located along New Hope Road.  The views from Commerce Road are mostly obstructed by the raised railroad, the current vegetation, and the "to be planted" 50 foot vegetative buffer that will be created from native pollinator-friendly plants.  Studies have shown that solar produces no negative effects on property values- and certainly less than the other options that may be developed on this land if this farm is not approved:  a lumbar yard, a trucking yard, a storage facility for coal/coke, etc to name a few. 

"But it will flood the land and cause leaching into the surrounding Lewis Creek"

In reality, the land for the proposed solar farm is not located in the flood plain.  The company has noted it will comply with all stormwater regulations.  The vegetative buffer will also help to mitigate runoff.  

Solar panels are a technology that have been around since the 1980's.  They have been shown to be safe and effective and not harmful to the surrounding environment.  The livestock being grazed on nearby farms would likely have higher impacts on the water quality of the Lewis Creek than any solar farm would ever have. Additionally, the water runoff in that region of Staunton flows AWAY from the downtown and not INTO Staunton proper.

"But it won't actually benefit the citizens of Staunton"

In reality, the residents of Staunton will be able to enroll in the use of the clean energy produced by the solar field prior to any outside residents getting the opportunity.  Low income residents of Staunton will see a savings on their energy bills after enrolling in the program. The proposed farm will net the city of Staunton an extra $200,000 over the life of the project than if the land remained undeveloped.  It is a win-win situation for all involved.

When you get down to it, the opposition to the farm is mostly made up of scare tactics and "whataboutisms". There are a few residents who will see the farm from their property, but the alternatives for development would be much worse.  The overall benefit to the city financially, and the benefit to the environment, far outweigh the costs.  If we truly care about the beauty of the city of Staunton, and leaving a legacy that will benefit our children, we NEED City Council to vote "YES" to this solar farm.

Please urge City Council to vote FOR the solar farm by signing this petition.  We also invite you to write to city council at citycouncil@ci.staunton.va.us.

Also, please plan to attend the city council meeting on June 22nd at 7pm at City Hall to voice your support for our environment, our city, and our future by urging City Council to allow this solar farm.