Laserfiche WebLink
Motion Carried. <br />6.03: Public Hearing: Connexus Energy — Rezone a Portion of the Ramsey Landfill from I- <br />1 to CL Northwest of Sunwood Drive and Sunfish Lake Blvd. NW <br />Public Hearing <br />Chairperson Gengler called the public hearing to order at 7:24 p.m. <br />Presentation <br />Planning Manager Larson presented the staff report stating that staff recommends rezoning a <br />portion of the property from I-1 to CL and for the Site Plan Review of the Solar Garden. <br />Citizen Innut <br />Brian Burandt, Connexus Energy, commented they have partnered with the MPCA to ensure that <br />the solar array would work with the continued monitoring of the closed landfill and would also <br />preserve building pads for future economic development. He stated that with the natural screening <br />and trees that would be planted, the array would not be visible from the road. He stated that this <br />station would be connected to their substation and all the power generated from the local systems <br />remains local. He stated that they would also plant deep prairie grasses and pollinator habitat. <br />Commissioner Van Scoy asked for thoughts on pollinators. <br />Mr. Burandt commented that is their standard practice. <br />Commissioner Bauer commented that there seems to be a growing demand for solar and asked if <br />there could be potential to expand as this seems to be a good use for the property. <br />Mr. Burandt agreed noting that they first looked at the property in 2016. He stated that they <br />continue to look at landfill sites, noting that this will be the pilot in Minnesota. He explained that <br />they attempt to create solar that stays local. He stated that this would be the third project within <br />Ramsey and would maximize the substation capability. <br />Commissioner Bauer commented that he does not see anything objectionable related to the view <br />of a solar array and did not see the need for additional screening. He commented that visibility <br />would seem to be an advantage, encouraging others to pursue solar as well. <br />Mr. Burandt commented that they are taking advantage of the existing berms on the property and <br />appreciated those comments. <br />Motion by Commissioner Bauer, seconded by Commissioner Hunt, to close the public hearing. <br />A roll call vote was performed: <br />Planning Commission/ January 25, 2024 <br />Page 6of12 <br />