Dear Editor:

As a resident of Knox County, I am writing to express my support for the Frasier Solar Project.

Having thoroughly examined arguments from both sides, it is evident that the advantages of this initiative far surpass any potential drawbacks. Through PILOT funds, the project will inject a net increase of over $12 million into the county over the life of the project. It will support Mount Vernon City Schools, the Career Center, the County General Fund, townships, and various county-wide programs.

Moreover, the project respects property rights, as landowners have willingly signed contracts with Open Road Renewables. The opposition is misleading the community. I did my own research about utility-scale solar and found that what the opposition is sharing are fear tactics. The truth looks much different than what they’d have you believe.

The Frasier Project encompasses only a fraction of the county's vast farmland, and claims of toxic chemical leaching and farmland loss are distorted, contributing to misinformation spreading through our community.

It is upsetting to witness this barrage of misleading claims opposing the project. Residents must conduct their own thorough research, as these fear tactics often stem from deceitful campaigns funded by outsider oil and gas monopolies, as has been reported. Knox County should not succumb to underhanded tactics that deter us from implementing renewable energy and the benefits from these projects.  

Frasier Solar offers an outstanding opportunity for economic growth, contributing to the well-being of our community and the planet. Let us not be swayed by misinformation; instead, let this project pave the way for a sustainable future for Knox County and generations to come.

Janet Chandler

Mount Vernon, OH