As a Richland County resident I would like to advocate on the May 5 ballot in Richland County to support landowners’ property rights by voting NO on the referendum that would disallow the Commissioners ban on utility solar and wind in certain townships.
Ohio farmers have the right to use their land as they choose, whether that means farming corn, cattle, or sunshine.
Some are choosing to work with solar developers to install solar panels on their land and generate clean, locally produced energy that benefits their families and the community.
Solar leases help preserve farmland by keeping it agricultural. Unlike housing developments, warehouses, or data centers, solar panels don’t pave over the land permanently.
If Ohio wants to keep electricity affordable and reliable while meeting growing demand, we need to build more power here at home, including solar.
Adding solar to Ohio’s energy mix cuts costs, reduces air pollution, and creates good-paying jobs that can’t be outsourced.
Matthew Smith
Mansfield, Ohio