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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 Hearin <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 Input <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 6 of 12 <br />