Boardman looking to join townships against solar farms - WKBN.com

Boardman, Ohio looking to join Mahoning County townships against large-scale solar farms

BOARDMAN, Ohio(WKBN) — The Boardman Township trustees will be asking the Mahoning County Commissioners to add Boardman to list of 10 townships looking to ban large-scale solar farms.

Boardman has little land left to support a large-scale solar farm. Township administrator Jason Loree says he’s also concerned over the lack of regulations over how they’re decommissioned and storm water requirements.

But Boardman also wants people to consider alternate energy sources, so it’s working on regulations to have solar panels installed at businesses, homes and apartments.

Loree says roof solar panels would be fine, but the sun’s reflection and its impact on neighbors should be under consideration.

“If there’s ever a fire at your house, and the panels go from your entire roof, there’s nowhere for a firefighter to put a ladder and access safely, so we have to put some considerations on the safety aspect, as well,” Loree said.

Loree said Boardman is getting guidance from the Ohio Township Association on how to draw up the regulations. He expects to have them in place by either late March or early April.