Wichita-Sedgwick County MAPD to host Solar Power Town Hall Nov. 16

(Sedgwick County, Kan.) – The Metropolitan Area Planning Department (MAPD) is hosting a Solar Power Town Hall and Open House on Thursday, Nov. 16, 2023, at the Sedgwick County Extension Office, 7001 W. 21st St North. Stakeholders can learn more about existing land use regulations and guidance from the comprehensive plan related to utility-scale solar. Doors open at 4:30 p.m., with a presentation starting at 6 p.m. The town hall will be an opportunity for stakeholders in Sedgwick County to voice their opinion and provide feedback regarding utility-scale solar energy systems. The input collected at this event will help inform the review of existing plans and policies to determine if any changes are needed.

Currently, the Unified Zoning Code requires applicants to submit a variety of information with their application. This includes an environmental assessment to the EPA that addresses any impact the plan may have on wildlife habitat, bird and bat migration or life, flora and fauna, or flood zones. The Unified Zoning Code requires the applicant to also provide an evaluation of any plans and proposals that address the environmental, social and economic impact the proposed facility may have on local governments or special districts.

 For more information on the Solar Energy Conversion Systems / Utility-Scale Solar and the Unified Zoning Code, go to www.sedgwickcounty.org/solar.