The Mount Vernon City Council is deliberating whether to petition the Ohio Supreme Court to overturn the approval of the Frasier Solar project within city limits. This decision is seen as a potential violation of a Senate bill authorizing large solar projects and a Knox County ruling.
According to a YouTube video of the city council's October 13 meeting, Auditor Daniel Brinkman informed the council that using land within city limits for the industrial solar project would deprive Mount Vernon of potential revenue over the project's 40-year span. He explained that if the property were developed as zoned, approximately 500 homes could generate $1 million annually through income tax withholding and water/wastewater bills. In contrast, payments in lieu of taxes from the solar project would amount to only $2,500 per year.
Brinkman said that the Ohio Power Siting Board approved the project on land incorporated in Mount Vernon, marking it as a unique case in Ohio. He noted that Senate Bill 52, which defines solar and wind projects, grants county commissioners authority over such projects before construction. Knox County Commissioners have permitted solar projects only in unincorporated areas; however, part of the Frasier project lies within Mount Vernon's boundaries.
Brinkman also mentioned that Mount Vernon was not represented in ad hoc meetings held by the Ohio Power Siting Board before public hearings on the project. While Miller and Clinton Townships had representation, Mount Vernon's protests were dismissed at these hearings. Brinkman clarified that while they are not contesting the approval of the solar project itself, they want their land back.
City Council member Amber Keener emphasized at an initial committee meeting that she wanted council members to understand these issues before pursuing further action. She proposed seeking advice from external counsel with more expertise so that they can decide whether to escalate this matter to the Ohio Supreme Court.
Brinkman expressed optimism about achieving a favorable outcome since this is reportedly the only known instance where Senate Bill 52's terms were disregarded. However, Law Director Rob Broeren raised concerns about whether Mount Vernon has standing in this case.
