KC Commissioners Approve On First Reading an Amended 500 Foot Setback for Some Properties from Solar Plants

The Knox County Commissioners have approved in first reading an ordinance adjustment for solar plant setbacks.  Attorney Charles Traylor tells the Commissioners the new plan would increase setback distances from solar facilities.  The approved amendment gives a 500 foot setback, if  property borders the solar plant in two places.   Knox County Commissioner Tim Ellerman the Second, in his comments, offered a plan that moves the setbacks even further aw– to 750 feet.

Ellerman’s suggestion died for lack of a second.  The Commissioners then approved the 500 foot distance on a 2-1 vote, with  Ellerman voting against it.  The amended language was approved on first reading; it now goes to the Knox County Area Plan Commission for consideration.  After the A-P-C gives its recommendation on the issue, it will then go back to the Commissioners for second and third reading.