The Walworth Planning Board continued its review of a proposed solar project by Norbut Solar Farms LLC and postponed action on a separate subdivision request during its monthly meeting held in July.
Solar Application Advances Toward August Vote
Representatives from Norbut Solar Farms appeared before the board to present an update on their application for a subdivision, site plan, and special use permit covering properties at 1010 Atlantic Avenue, 1045 Cuttrough Road, and 4251 Canandaigua Road.
Victor Traktor, speaking on behalf of the project team, informed board members that the Walworth Town Board had denied waiver requests for 1001 and 1025 Pepper Road during a special meeting on July 7. In response, Norbut is working directly with neighboring property owners to develop landscape screening agreements and hopes to submit updated plans by July 28. Traktor noted that the revised submission would allow the Planning Board to consider the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQR) at its August 11 meeting.
Board members indicated that despite any private agreements with neighbors, required setbacks would remain as stated in town code. One board member emphasized the need for landscaping buffers, particularly evergreen trees, in case existing hedgerows are removed. The applicant agreed to include screening measures in future plans.
Traktor stated the team was “more than happy to run any agreement by the town before simply assuming that it’s all wrapped up.”
Public Opposition Voiced
During the public hearing, resident Tom Nightstein of 1136 Cuttrough Road expressed continued opposition to the solar project. He cited concerns over construction traffic, environmental impacts, property values, and the loss of rural character. “We’re concerned about the quality of life,” Nightstein said, noting the property’s proximity to a DEC pond and frequent geese activity.
The board closed the public portion of the hearing and voted to continue the matter at its August meeting.
Subdivision Review Tabled
A second item on the agenda—an application by Angelo DeMonte for a subdivision at 1145 Plank Road—was tabled after no representative appeared to speak on the matter.
During public comment, a nearby resident raised a concern that a structure referred to as a “deer condo” or elevated blind was not shown on the submitted map. The board acknowledged the structure’s presence and questioned whether it complied with setback requirements. Discussion indicated it may be a non-conforming structure, but no determination was made.
With unanswered questions and no applicant present, the board unanimously voted to table the application and end the public comment period.
The meeting adjourned following a motion and vote by board members.
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