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April 11, 2024 PC Minutes <br /> Page 5 <br /> Evan Carlson approached the podium to respond to questions. Carlson stated that he submitted <br /> valuation studies that concluded that solar farms do not negatively affect property values, that much <br /> more disruptive uses are permitted on AG zoned property, and that the racking materials are <br /> engineered to sustain winds up to 170 miles per hour. Carlson stated that the solar panels are made of <br /> standard silicon, and that all of the materials are recyclable and nontoxic. Carlson stated that the fence <br /> materials could be changed to address visual concerns. <br /> Acting Chair Derr asked about glare, Carlson stated that glare issues typically arise from tracker <br /> systems where the panels track the position of the sun, but that this proposal uses a fixed tilt system <br /> where the panels don't move. Carlson stated that his company has projects that are at or near airports, <br /> and that they have not received complaints of glare. <br /> Commissioner Lessard asks if the stated 10 foot height was the panel's height off of the ground, <br /> Carlson says yes. <br /> Acting Chair Derr asked if there were any further public comments. <br /> Levi Shepherd returned to the podium and said that every townhome has a bedroom window pointed <br /> at the property and that use and enjoyment affects property values. <br /> John Udsteun returned to the podium and said that the City failed to adequately notify the residents <br /> within 350 feet of the property, and that should be enough to stop the public hearing. <br /> Mike Happ returned to the podium and asked who was the expert that approved the proposal. Juba <br /> said that the City does not have a specific expert on solar farms, but explained the application review <br /> process as well as the public meetings held during the ordinance review process. Happ said that the <br /> City needs an expert to verify the health and safety claims. <br /> Ben Krull returned to the podium and stated that the road is not being improved, and that solar panels <br /> are not being recycled. <br /> No one else spoke. <br /> Acting Chair Derr closed the Public Hearing at 9:23 PM. <br /> Juba restated that the City Engineer and Public Works Director participate in the development review <br /> process and had no concerns about the effects on Everton Avenue due to the low anticipated traffic <br /> volume. <br /> Commissioner Andress asked if any of the proposed plantings will be conducive to the wildlife habitat, <br /> and if the reestablishment will only occur within the fenced in area. Carlson said that native plantings <br /> within the fenced-in area will have a positive environmental benefit, and that outside the fence <br /> landscaping will only be planted with nothing removed. <br />