By Milda M. Mullins
The Hardy County Planning Commission discussed new floodplain mapping that has several county structures both newly inside and outside of the lines.
According to Hardy County Planner Melissa Scott, the changes are due to new, more precise data giving more accurate mapping and other changes, like the topography of a space being altered by time or by people. [private]
It was noted that there seem to be more changes on the Eastern side of the county. On the flip side, flood maps around Moorefield are currently on hold because the levy was not re-certified due to being two feet too short to qualify under current requirements.
Scott told the board that letters will be sent to residences affected by the new mapping changes letting them know they are either in or out of the new floodplain.
There will be a 90-day period for homeowners to appeal. A start date to that appeal process is undetermined as of the last Planning meeting on Tuesday, Aug. 2.
Commissioners also discussed solar as an energy source, particularly the implementation of industrial solar and how and where it fits in the county, if at all.
Solar was also mentioned in the agricultural committee report, which noted the committee, “felt we should have reasonable restrictions on utility scale solar, especially in regards to farmland where there are productive soils.” The committee noted the restrictions don’t mean a ban on solar.
Dakota Power Partners director Erik Duncan, who attended, explained there are limited locations their solar panels can work in the county. Additionally, the land is maintained in environmentally-friendly meadow conditions.
Solar as a renewable energy source is currently being discussed for the comprehensive plan as part of the energy chapter. Moving forward, the Commission will discuss agriculture.
Commission members also voted on Lee Lahman and Greg Greenwalt as president and vice president, respectively.
Planning Commission meetings are open to the public. [/private]
The next Planning Commission meeting will be 6 p.m. on a to-be-determined date after Labor Day in the lower level of the courthouse at 204 Washington St. in Moorefield.