Pulaski County weighs stricter solar rules amid resident concerns

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- With multiple solar energy projects already operating locally, Pulaski County officials are considering tighter regulations as residents raise concerns about additional development.

The Pulaski County Advisory Plan Commission held a special meeting Friday to review proposed updates to the county’s unified development ordinance. The meeting lasted several hours as County Inspector Karla Redweik outlined a series of potential changes.

The proposals include stronger landscaping protections for nearby properties, requirements that developers repair any roads damaged during construction, and the possible introduction of property tax caps tied to solar projects.

One of the most debated proposals is an 8% cap, which prompted discussion among board members over whether the percentage is appropriate and justifiable.

Residents packed the meeting room at the Pulaski County Courthouse, expressing heightened concern about the expansion of solar facilities.

Public comments focused heavily on safety and infrastructure issues. Some residents expressed fears about storm damage, particularly the potential for solar panels to become hazardous debris during severe weather events such as tornadoes. Others questioned whether current construction standards are sufficient to withstand high wind speeds and noted that recent storms in the region have exceeded those thresholds.

Concerns were also raised about whether the county has adequate resources to manage cleanup and recovery efforts if large-scale damage were to occur.

While not all safety concerns were resolved, the proposed ordinance amendments include expanded provisions related to landscaping, drainage and disaster mitigation. The plan commission is expected to forward the recommendations to the county commissioners for consideration and a vote.

In addition, some residents called for a moratorium on new solar developments in the county. The advisory board is scheduled to discuss whether to recommend a temporary pause to the board of commissioners at its April 8 meeting.