The Mount Vernon City Council has voted against the proposed Frasier solar energy development project, which would be predominantly located within the city's boundaries.
According to a public notice from Mount Vernon, the council approved a resolution expressing its opposition during its meeting on March 11.
The resolution stated that the council had reservations about the project being constructed so close to and within the city's boundaries. The council expressed concerns that this would alter the visual landscape, diminish available agricultural land, and negatively impact potential tourism. According to the agenda for the council's March 11 meeting, it was suggested that this change would result in less efficient land use.
The project is currently awaiting approval from the Ohio Power Siting Board for development and operation of the Frasier solar energy development project in Knox County. As per the city council's March 11 meeting agenda, the resolution requests that the board deny this development.
The resolution further stated that it is incumbent upon the city council to support preservation of Mount Vernon's rural integrity, agricultural priorities, and unique tourism opportunities while taking into account community input. This was also noted in the agenda for their March 11 meeting.
