Ord-2018-013 Solar Moratorium Extension

Home Browse Search

Ordinance 2018-J2!.J> July 3, 2018 WHEREAS, After consideration of the staff report, public comment, and evidence submitted, the Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the proposed standards and criteria with amendments; and WHEREAS, A public hearing was scheduled before the Board of County Commissioners to consider the recommendation from the Planning Commission and to consider whether or not to extend the moratorium, and WHEREAS, After due notice the Board of County Commissioners held a public hearing on June 25, 2018 at 6:00 p.m. where public testimony was received; and WHEREAS, After consideration of the staff report, public comment, and evidence submitted, the Board of Commissioners determined that further revisions to the proposed standards and criteria are required, and decided that the moratorium for solar projects that qualify as major alternative energy facilities shall be extended until January 10, 2019, or until standards and criteria are adopted, whichever occurs first. NOW THE BOARD FINDS : 1. A potentially high number of proponents for solar farms have shown interest in the development of solar energy facilities within the Kittitas County valley. 2. Large numbers of large solar energy facilities may have an impact upon the agricultural activity within the valley, which is a prime industry within the County. 3. The Board desires standards and/or criteria for the placement of such facilities. 4. Further revisions to proposed standards and criteria are necessary. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT HEREBY ORDERED, that the moratorium on applications for solar projects that qualify as major alternative energy facilities shall be extended until January 10, 2019, or until standards and criteria are adopted, whichever occurs first. ADOPTED this 3rd day of __ J_ul_._y __ , 2018. BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS l COUNTY, WASHINGTON L v.:. ...... rgCZ , Chai rma n tf/L _aa,:t. _, Obie O'Brien, Vice-Chairman v~ Commissioner