Pickens County moves solar farm ordinance toward third reading after no public testimony

The Pickens County Council opened a public hearing on a proposed solar energy farm ordinance and closed it after staff reported no one had signed up to comment. Councilor Lynville said the ordinance fills a gap in county rules by providing definitions and standards so planning staff and the commission can review solar projects consistently.

"The point of this ordinance was because we didn't have anything addressing how a solar farm could be built in the county," Councilor Lynville said, adding that the draft aims to ensure projects are "wellsighted," allow wildlife passage, and provide buffering so neighbors are not disturbed. Council discussed scheduling and confirmed the ordinance will move forward toward third reading on Oct. 5.

The hearing drew no public testimony; staff recorded that no speakers were signed up in advance and the public hearing was closed. No formal vote on adoption occurred at the meeting; council proceeded to the next agenda items.