Residents urge McHenry County board to limit large solar projects on farmland

Two residents spoke during the public‑comment period at the April 16 Committee of the Whole meeting to oppose proposed large ground‑mounted solar installations near their communities.

Sue Bridal, speaking for herself and noting she had provided a prior HOA letter, said a planned solar array behind her Fieldstone Place subdivision would change the rural character residents value and result in a long lease that removes farmland from productive use. "Some people choose to live rural and they want to have their homes in an open farm‑like environment," Bridal said. She asked the board to favor rooftop installations and avoid placing utility‑scale arrays adjacent to residential properties.

Renee Weigert, who said she represented a large group of Johnsburg‑area residents, called the projects "industrial solar plants," and cited figures cited by national groups on acres in line for solar in Illinois and nationwide. She warned of equipment left behind after installations and argued the county needs more control over siting; she referenced Senate Bill 38 and ongoing litigation as part of the context for county action.

The board did not respond with a policy decision during the meeting; members acknowledged the comments and noted land‑use authority resides largely with townships and municipalities, and that county committees will continue to review zoning petitions and related items on the upcoming agenda.