Stop Commercial Solar Town Hall Set for Tonight in Sunman

More public meetings will take place later this month.

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(Sunman, Ind.) - A town hall meeting will take place this evening in Sunman regarding a proposed solar farm in Dearborn County. 

Oppositions of commercial solar-energy systems have organized the event, which will start at 6:00 PM at the Sunman American Legion. Doors open at 5:00. 

Linea Energy is pursuing over 1,000 acres to develop into solar and battery storage. However, a formal application has yet to be submitted and would have to be approved by The Planning and Zoning Office and Dearborn County Commissioners. 

In December, an online petition was launched by local residents in opposition of the development and installation of commercial-scale solar energy systems within Dearborn County. Over 1,700 people signed the petition. 

The group of residents, landowners and stakeholders are concerned about the permanent or long-term loss of productive agricultural land, adverse impacts to rural character and scenic landscapes, potential reduction in neighboring property values, environmental and drainage issues, increased strain on roads and emergency services, and limited long-term economic benefit to Dearborn County residents.

Aside from tonight's town hall in Sunman, there are more public meetings scheduled for this month. 

Linea Energy plans to hold a town hall February 17 at Agner Hall. A Planning Commission meeting will follow on February 23 at South Dearborn High School (6 PM). 

County Commissioners have formally motioned to schedule a special meeting on February 24 at 6:00 PM. 

RELATED: Solar Energy Systems on Agenda for Upcoming Dearborn Co. Plan Commission Meeting