To the Editor:
There has been a lot of talk lately about whether landowners in Knox County should be allowed to lease a portion of their property for the development of large-scale solar projects.
I hope that as these discussions continue, we will keep in mind that those considering leasing their land for solar have their own reasons for doing so. Maybe they need to diversify their income, maybe they have medical bills they need to pay, or maybe they are trying to keep their generational farmland in the family rather than selling it for housing development. What we do know is that our neighbors have a right to make that choice. And their choice will also benefit our communities, as local tax revenue is used for schools, infrastructure, and other much-needed projects.
Solar energy, like other utilities, needs regulation for safety and cleanliness. At the same time, we need to respect the property choices of our neighbors, friends, and family. That includes making the choice to develop clean energy sources on our property.
Joan Slonczewski
Gambier, OH
