Community members raised concerns that the solar farm would decrease property values and harm the local ecosystem.
‘This is a rural neighborhood, not countryside and not a typical place where all the rest of these solar farms are being placed,’ said Leslie Edelblute, one of a dozen homeowners adjacent to the property at 6221 Coates Drive SE. ‘It is bordered on three full sides by homes.’
The property is zoned for agriculture and had been used for grazing. Oregon law allows solar facilities in agriculture zones with a conditional use permit, which the county has approved. Neighbors are appealing that decision.
(READ MORE: Bend Bulletin)
