2018.09.17 CC Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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FastSun 4, LLC. Solar Farm IUP Page 8 The intent of the FUS zoning district is to promote the preservation of large parcels that are eligible for city services/utilities. In this particular area, it is unlikely that city services will be extended in the near future. At the time of development, it is likely that this property will be developed along with the surrounding area and the City's Comprehensive Plan will be evaluated with the request at that time. The solar farm will not impede the City's ability to implement its Comprehensive Plan. (e) The proposed solar farm is compatible with the present character of the surrounding area. As stated previously, the intent of the FUS zoning district is to promote the preservation of large parcels that are eligible for city services. Because of this, this area is generally treated as a rural/agricultural area of the City. Many of the uses in this zoning district are single family homes with the remaining land used for agricultural activities. These uses generally translate into having a low impact on adjacent properties with limited noise, traffic, etc. The applicant has indicated that there will be routine maintenance on the property, which will generally consist of a truck using the access drive at various times and will not be intrusive. The applicant has also indicated that the solar farm will not generate any carbon or other harmful emissions and will not create any noise, dust, fumes, or glare. The solar farm is consistent with the character of the surrounding area. It's in staff s opinion that the request for an IUP for a solar farm will not adversely affect the surrounding area and is compatible with the character of the surrounding area. 69 The proposed solar farm shall have a set date in which the permit shall be reviewed or terminated. The applicant has requested the permit to be approved for a period of 25 years, which is the life of the applicant's agreement with Xcel Energy in purchasing the power generated by the solar farm. City staff is comfortable with approving the IUP for a 25 year period from the date of the issuance of the final building permit with the allowance, required by City code, that the owner/operator of the solar farm provide the City with evidence that the solar energy system is functioning properly at any time deemed necessary by the City. The solar farm shall be reviewed every five (5) years. (g) The proposed solar farm shall be subject to any conditions that the city council deems appropriate for the permission of the use. City staff have reviewed the application for a solar farm interim use permit and have outlined conditions of the permit within the IUP document. The City Council and/or staff can update the permit with any conditions deemed necessary for this use. 8. CONCLUSION In conclusion, staff have discussed the solar farm at length with the applicant and believes the applicant has generally done a good job planning the site. It's in staff s opinion that the application complies with all City standards and the approval criteria for a solar energy system outlined in the City code. It is in staff s opinion that the requested for a solar farm IUP is reasonable.