The Marshall County Commissioners took action to extend a moratorium on Battery Energy Storage Systems when they met Monday, September 16.
A one-year moratorium on Battery Energy Storage Systems was implemented in October of 2023 and it is close to the expiration of that moratorium.
Residents expressed concern about the approaching expiration of the moratorium and asked the commissioners to consider an extension so the proper protections can be put into place. It was noted that the moratorium can be for any length and rescinded at any time if a stricter ordinance is ultimately approved.
County Attorney Jim Clevenger noted that while an ordinance is in place there are other provisions to be followed if a company would submit a permit for a proposed project. He said the original reason for the moratorium was to research other regulations that could be included in a study on the matter by a committee with the Plan Commission.
County Commission President Stan Klotz commented that it is still going to take some time before rules and regulations will be in place for an ordinance to be provided to the commissioners for consideration. Commissioner Michael Burroughs made a motion to extend the moratorium until December 31, 2024 which was seconded by Klotz. Burroughs and Klotz approved the motion while Commissioner Kevin Overmyer abstained from the vote.
