The Culver Town Council members were asked Tuesday night to impose a moratorium on large-scale solar farms on agricultural land and industrial energy battery storage projects in the two-mile zone so time could be taken to review the town’s current ordinance concerning these separate items.

Janette Surrisi explained that she read the current ordinance and suggested it needed some updates to include tighter definitions of solar energy systems as it is written in the ordinance, plus the required processes for project permits, setbacks, project plans, decommissioning, and various restrictions when it comes to site plans and equipment.  The zoning for industrial battery storage projects should be included in the ordinance and other restrictions.

She asked the council to certify a proposal of a moratorium to the Culver Plan Commission. 

Debbie VanDeMark and Paul Levett, both of Culver, spoke of their concerns of the large-scale solar farms and industrial battery storage projects in the county and in the two-mile zone in Culver.  VanDeMark noted loss of agricultural land, environmental impact, protecting adjacent landowners, property value guarantees, an emergency fire safety plan, liability insurance, decommissioning, material data safety sheets, protecting farmers who have signed leases, and an energy storage ordinance.  Levett made similar remarks. 

The council members commented that it might be best to review the ordinance and to keep in mind Senate Bill 33 that addresses a solar and wind power equipment disposal study that is expected to be complete in 2025. 

Marshall County Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Greg Hildebrand commented that many companies are looking for a mix of renewable energy when scouting sites.  He added that coal-fired and natural gas plants are being shut down with more renewable energy being sought. 

Chris Kline said a lot of misinformation is out there, but several government entities are overseeing the current processes and asked that more study be done on both sides. 

Ginny Bess Munroe pointed out that the Town of Culver does not control the entire two-mile zoning of Culver and that some of it is controlled by Marshall County.  She encouraged the council to refer to the map to be sure they are discussing the correct areas when further discussions are warranted.

In the end, the council voted 4-1 to impose a two-year moratorium on large-scale solar farms and industrial energy battery storage projects.  Council members Bill Cleavenger, Bill Githens, Bill Hamm, and Sally Ricciardi voted in favor, while Rich West opposed the motion.   West said he wanted more time to look into a possible moratorium.