close to the forest preserve, schools, and residents' homes. If the Committee agrees to
this solar field, it would set a precedence for other solar fields to be constructed near
schools and forest preserves. Halterman asked the Committee to find appropriate
locations for these solar facilities.
Kevin Conner, 1202 Kaneville Road, Geneva, stated he researched this petition and
read the logistics of the proposed solar field. He noted that he is a proponent of
alternative energy. However, the location and the proximity of this solar field to schools,
residents, and preserved land is not ideal. These solar fields contain high voltage, high
current, and electromagnetic interference. To have this type of power located next to a
school and resident's homes is potentially very dangerous.
Mario Ruffolo, 47W982 Route 38, Maple Park, stated he is a conservative person. That
being said, he was approached by the solar company, Horizon, to construct a solar
field on his land earlier this year. He believed this would be a good idea for the County
as it would create jobs. Ruffolo stated that many need to understand the potential risks
of climate change. We need to change are dependence on fossil fuels. Ruffolo stated
that he does not see the negative side to this petition, besides the proposed location.
This will ultimately help Kane County with renewable energy sources.
Richard Johnson, 44 Lake Marian Road, Carpentersville, stated he is in support of
community solar projects. With the growing threat of climate change and ensuing
natural catastrophes due to the excessive release of carbon emissions, many
communities around the world are looking to clean energy alternatives to replace
traditional fossil fuels. Solar energy is a sustainable renewable energy resource that
has a low environmental impact and promotes energy equity and independence.
Johnson explained that community solar projects will provide environmentally friendly
access to low cost energy to the community. He stated that the few Illinois legislative
acts pertaining to solar energy and the Kane County's 2017 Solar Statement has
demonstrated leadership in supporting renewable energy production. He commended
the Kane County Board on their support of sustainable development and renewable
energies. Johnson voiced his support on Kane County's goals of becoming more solar
friendly community. He spoke on the common oppositions of solar fields. Many solar
fields are time-bound and the land can convert to farmland after deconstruction.
Larry Stachura, 48W580 Route 38, Maple Park, stated he has been uncertain about
the process of these solar petitions. He explained that he was mailed a letter a few
weeks ago informing him of a solar farm being constructed at a neighbor's home. He
noted that the Zoning Board of Appeals approved this project. He questioned if the
solar field is safe, or if it could be turned off in case of emergency. Stachura explained
that he inherited a family farm in Maple Park. In 2000, there was a proposed rail port
that was potentially going to be built across his family farm. Just like this, he opposes
the use of the solar fields and to protect his parents wishes in keeping Kane County a
farming community.
Kane County resident, James Whittington, spoke on his opposition of solar fields. He
stated that, in Illinois, the amount of sunlight is not ideal year round for solar energy. He
explained that after speaking with residents that have solar panels on their rooftops, he
has found that they have not been paid off or efficient. Whittington explained that solar