Grundy Reporter

State Senator Sue Rezin (R-Morris) has introduced Senate Bill 2595, which aims to restore local control over renewable projects that was stripped away by the General Assembly. The bill would allow proposed commercial wind and solar energy facilities in an unincorporated area of a county, within a 3-mile radius of a surrounding municipality, to be denied siting approval if they do not obtain approval from both the county board and the city council of that municipality.

“The lame duck legislation that was pushed through the General Assembly stripped away the rights of local communities to have a say in the development of renewable energy projects within their vicinity,” said Senator Rezin. “Senate Bill 2595 seeks to rectify that mistake by ensuring that both county and municipality officials can collectively determine what is best for their communities.”

The motivation behind the introduction of Senate Bill 2595 stems from ongoing community battles following the passage of House Bill 4412 by the General Assembly. This bill, which automatically approves wind or solar projects as long as they meet state siting requirements, has caused concerns in several communities within the 38th Senate District. While cities have the power to approve or deny wind farms within a 1.5-mile radius, there is no provision for addressing solar farms.

“Local communities shouldn't be sidelined when it comes to decisions that impact their lives,” continued Senator Rezin. “This legislation is a crucial step in restoring balance and ensuring that residents have a voice in the shaping of their community's future.”

Senate Bill 2595 is currently awaiting assignment to a Senate Committee for further consideration.