Everything we fought for can be wiped out with the stroke of a pen. BUT WE CAN STOP IT!

 Senator Page Walley introduced a bill last year and it took effect in June of 2024. It allows a Solar company to make a "Siting Agreement" with a county Mayor. These agreements can bypass the requirements of our Solar Ordinance. It can change the set-back and buffer requirements, it could allow solar back into FAR ( Forestry Agriculture Residential) it extends the time frame for these projects to be completed and none of these changes would have to go through the Planning Commission or BZA. In fact, the law prohibits any boards or commisssion from exercsing their authority once an agreement is approved. While we the citizens are forced to play the game in getting our approvals and permits, they are given a get out of jail free card, and in the process our voices are silenced as no public hearing is required.

These "Siting Agreements" have to be approved by the County Commission. Silicon Ranch has made a "Siting Agreement" with our county Mayor and it is on the agenda for this next meeting, March 18th 7:00. If this "Siting Agreement" is given to Silicon Ranch, how many more solar companies are waiting to do the same? What special considerations will they be asking for? With no limit on size, how many acres of Hardeman County will be covered in solar panels? There is no use in giving away thousands and thousands of acres of farmland hoping that the tax revenue will pay for the lawsuits! The real tax money is not seen until the facilities are up and running, which could be 5-7 years or longer. 

We need to show up, speak during public comment, and remind our Commissioners that they voted for stricter Solar regulatios in 2024, and to vote "NO" on this "Siting Agreement". Silicon Ranch should move forward and build what they agreed to build in 2024. No more special considerations!

The public should have a say as to what is in the best interest of the county, not just the Mayor and the Solar companies!