01-25-2022 Agenda Packet EDC4:00 PM
4:00 PM
4:02 PM 3. Approval of the November 23, 2021 Meeting Minutes
Motion
4:03 PM 4. Officer Nomination and Vote
a.Chair
b.Vice-Chair
c.Secretary
4:08 PM 5. Director's Report
4:16 PM Led By Newly Elected Chairman
4:26 PM
4:30 PM
4:30 PM
Motion:
6. Member and Ex Officio Comments
Ms. Sherry Wilborn, ED Director
Request Motion to Approve the November 23, 2021 Meeting Minutes as presented
Mr. G. Phillip Allen, Chairman
1. Welcome
2. Invocation
Mr. G. Phillip Allen, Chairman
Mr. Dale Reynolds, Vice Chairman
Mrs. Sherry Wilborn, ED Director
Person County Economic Development Commission
Meeting Location: Kirby Cultural Arts Complex
Tuesday, January 25, 2022
4:00 p.m.
Agenda
213 North Main Street
Request Motion to Adjourn
Newly Elected Chairman
Newly Elected Chairman
9. Adjournment Newly Elected Chairman
7. Chairman's Report
8. Next Meeting - February 22, 2022 4:00 p.m. Person County EDC Board
Room 303 S. Morgan St. Roxboro, NC
EDC Minutes for November 23, 2021
Minutes of the PCEDC Meeting
Person County Economic Development Boardroom
303 S. Morgan St., Roxboro, NC 27573
November 23, 2021
Voting Board Members Present:
Mr. Phillip Allen-Chairman Mr. Danny Talbert
The Honorable Gordon Powell Mr. Donald Long
Mr. Dale Reynolds-Vice Chairman Mr. Ernie Wood
Voting Board Members Absent:
Mr. Kenneth Perry
The Honorable Merilyn Newell-Secretary
Ex Officios Present:
Mr. Brooks Lockhart, City Manager Ms. Heidi York, County Manager
Dr. Claudia Berryhill, Agricultural Representative Dr. Rodney Peterson, PCS Superintendent
Dr. Pamela Senegal, PCC Representative
ED Staff Present: Others Present:
Mrs. Sherry Wilborn, ED Director Mr. George Willoughby
Mr. Michael Thibault, Assistant ED Director Ms. Lori Oakley
Mrs. Brandy Lynch, ED Senior Mr. Bo Freeman
Administrative Support The Honorable Derrick Sims
(Minutes) Mrs. Samantha Bagbey
Mr. Kelly Snow
Mr. John Wagstaff
EDC Welcome and Invocation:
1. At 4:01 p.m., Chairman Allen called the meeting to order.
2. Mr. Dale Reynolds gave the invocation.
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Approval of the Consent Agenda:
3. Mr. Allen turns the floor to Donald Long for review of the consent agenda.
A motion was made seconded and unanimously passed for approval of the October 26, 2021
Meeting Minutes
Motion: Donald Long Second: Dale Reynolds
A motion was made seconded and unanimously passed for approval of the 2022 Meeting
Schedule
Motion: Donald Long Second: Phillip Allen
Review of Draft Solar Ordinance:
4. Chairman Allen turns the floor over to Sherry Wilborn to begin the review of the draft solar
ordinance.
Wilborn reminds the board it has been approximately 18 months since they have last reviewed
the solar ordinance, explaining the county is under a moratorium right now. The county’s
planning director has been asked to make some modifications. Wilborn highlights some
changes to the ordinance: a reduction of the depth of the buffer with the simultaneous increase
of the height, more closely monitored decommissioning, and what decommissioning entails.
From an economic development standpoint, Wilborn hopes the Person County Commissioners
and the planning board consider that companies are now looking for greener energy sources.
Wilborn turns the floor over to Lori Oakley, Person County Planning Director.
Lori Oakley’s presentation will be included in the minutes.
Oakley notes the current solar ordinance was adopted in October 2020. Oakley reviews the
proposed changes. After the Person County Commissioners imposed this current moratorium,
Oakley started to review solar ordinances statewide; she also met with multiple Person County
departments for input.
Ms. Oakley fielded board questions.
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Information gathered from the question and answer session was:
-There are no size limitations on a solar farm at this time. The county attorney is looking
into that possibility
-County staff will do the yearly inspections
-The parcel of land has to be restored to the original state
-Industry is allowed to use solar as an accessory, for example Polywood
-The counties that Ms. Oakley reached out to did not restrict the size of solar farms
-Environmental county staff recommended 100ft setback from wells
Board members thanked Ms. Oakley for her presentation, time, and effort.
Ms. Oakley noted this plan would go to the planning board in the December meeting, then to
the Person County Commissioners in January.
Director’s Report:
Sherry Wilborn’s presentation was included in the minutes.
5. Wilborn noted that on November 18, the North Carolina State Budget was signed into law.
Wilborn turns the floor over to The Honorable Gordon Powell for more information on the
budget.
The Honorable Gordon Powell explained in 2017, a runway extension at Raleigh Regional Airport
was included in the master plan. Notice was given in the last year that the Department of
Transportation had pulled the project. At that time Commissioner Powell began a letter writing
campaign. The recently passed North Carolina budget includes a 12-million-dollar line item for
the runway extension at Raleigh Regional Airport. Commissioner Powell is encouraged by the
information he has received, including a start date long before 2029.
Wilborn mentions she is aware of a large project that is being reported coming to North
Carolina. She explains, if North Carolina lands any project it is a win for Person County as well. In
comparing and contrasting the projects of this nature, most require rail. The Person County
Mega Park does not have rail; rail could be brought to the site, but that would require additional
time. Wilborn reminds the board the Person County Mega Park has a different target industry.
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Wilborn informed the board she has received another public records request. The last public
records request took her eight days to work on.
At the conclusion of the Director’s Report, Wilborn played the new video RTRP developed for
the region’s workforce training.
Member and Ex Officio Comments:
6. Dr. Berryhill encouraged the board to review the tourism report that was shared with the Person
County Commissioners at their November meeting. For 2019-2020 Person County brought in
$35.2 million in tourism. She also notes farming supplies has increased by 30%.
Dr. Senegal announced the departure of Jody Blackwell. Jody will be joining Corning. Piedmont
Community College has entered into a two plus two agreement with three more North Carolina
colleges. She also thanked the state for passing a budget.
Ms. York notes the county is still reviewing the budget, noting this budget is good for rural
counties and broadband. York updates the board on the progress of the new hangar at Raleigh
Regional Airport.
Brooks Lockhart informed the board the N. Main St. Parking lot repaving has been delayed due
until the spring of 2022, and the Madison Blvd project is still scheduled for 2025. Lockhart notes
Morgan Street now has a new speed limit and the announcements of two public private
partnerships should be announced in the coming weeks. The Western Sewer project right of way
acquisition process has begun. Lockhart thanks the county for their assistance in getting fiber to
remote City of Roxboro facilities.
Mr. Reynolds congratulated Piedmont Community College on their recognition in the Triangle
Business Journal.
Mr. Wood wished the board a Happy Thanksgiving and a Merry Christmas.
Chairman’s Report:
7. Chairman Allen was invited to speak on the Task Force findings at the Person County
Commissioners’ meeting that was held on November 15. He along with officials from the
Roxboro Area Chamber of Commerce, Uptown Roxboro Group, and Person County Tourism
were on hand to speak. Mr. Allen noted the comments he made were his own.
Mr. Allen provided a few highlights from his speech
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-Allen provided praise to the Economic Development Director
and the Economic Development Board on the work they have done
-Allen noted what a “big deal” the Polywood expansion was to the county
-Allen expressed the importance of the new corporate hangar
Mr. Allen opens the floor to the board for comments.
Mr. Reynolds commends Chairman Allen on his presentation. Reynolds stated the Economic
Development Task Force was approved by the EDC months ago, the EDC even put off plans
waiting to hear the results of the Task Force. He feels the EDC has not gained anything from the
Task Force and some community members took the report negatively. Reynolds thanks the Task
Force, but wished the EDC could have gotten more from them.
The Honorable Gordon Powell thanked the Task Force and stated we needed to go forward
from here. He believes private funding is important. Commissioner Powell notes the board
talked about a non-profit years ago. Powell stated we could continue to work with the ED Task
Force to form a plan.
Chairman Allen expressed the importance of funding.
Mr. Wood noted he was disturbed by the fact so many people seem to be pulling against the
EDC. He noted there was no self-interest on the board. The disagreements pull the community
apart. Wood stated he has gained knowledge being on the board and the issues the EDC is
facing make the community look bad. Wood stated it is not Sherry Wilborn’s fault, noting she
works as hard as she can. Wood noted it is not the board’s fault either, but if people don’t start
working together, no company will come to Person County.
Next Meeting:
8. The next meeting, was announced as January 25, 2022 at 4:00 p.m. in the Person County EDC
Board Room 303 S. Morgan St. Roxboro, NC.
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Adjournment:
9. A motion was made, seconded and unanimously passed to adjourn the meeting at
approximately 5:14 p.m.
Motion: Dale Reynolds Second: Danny Talbert
_____________________________________ ______________________________________
Date Approved Secretary
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Planning staff’s proposed changes are in red
Date of Adoption: October 5th, 2020 1
PERSON COUNTY SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM ORDINANCE
Adopted by the Person County Board of Commissioners on the 5th Day of October, 2020.
Revised by the Person County Board of Commissioners on the ___ day of ___________, 2021
ARTICLE 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1 Title
1.2 Purpose
1.3 Authority and Grant of Power
1.4 Jurisdiction and Applicability
1.5 Definitions
ARTICLE 2. SITE DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS
2.1 General Regulations
2.2 Setbacks
2.3 Height
2.4 Buffers and Landscaping
2.5 Aviation Notification
2.6 Decommissioning and Abandonment
ARTICLE 3. LEGAL PROVISIONS
3.1 Procedure for Solar Energy System Development Approval
3.2 Penalties for Violations
3.3 Severability
3.4 Variance
3.5 Amendments
3.6 Abrogation
3.7 Effective Date
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ARTICLE 1. GENERAL PROVISIONS
1.1 Title
a) This document shall be known and cited as “Person County Solar Energy System Ordinance”.
1.2 Purpose
a) The purpose of this ordinance is to facilitate the construction, installation, and operation of solar
energy systems (SES) in Person County in a manner that promotes economic development, preserves
the dignity and aesthetics of the environment in Person County, and ensures the protection of health,
safety, and welfare while also avoiding adverse impacts to important areas such as agricultural lands.
This ordinance is not intended to replace safety, health, or environmental requirements contained in
other applicable codes, standards, or ordinances. The provisions of this ordinance shall not be deemed
to nullify any provisions of local, state, or federal law.
1.3 Authority and Grant of Power
a) This ordinance is adopted under the authority and provisions of the General Statute of North Carolina,
Chapter 153A Article 18. Nothing herein shall be interpreted to conflict with or supersede any provision
of the General Statute of North Carolina Chapter 153A.
1.4 Jurisdiction and Applicability
a) The regulations contained herein shall govern development of land within Person County, North
Carolina as provided in General Statute 153A, Article 18, except those lands lying within jurisdiction
of any municipality, unless such municipality shall have by resolution requesting the County enforce
these regulations within the municipality’s area of jurisdiction.
b) Solar energy systems established prior to the effective date of this ordinance shall remain exempt
except if major modifications to an existing solar energy systems are proposed and require a new
Special Use Permit to be issued by the Board of Commissioners. The modified area of the SES
permitted under the new Special Use Permit shall be subject to the conditions of this ordinance.
Maintenance and repair are not subject to this ordinance.
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1.5 Definitions
a) Abandonment: Any solar energy system that ceases to produce energy on a continuous basis for
twelve (12) months will be considered abandoned.
b) Accessory Equipment: Any equipment serving or being used in conjunction with a solar energy
system. The term includes utility or transmission equipment, power supplies, generators, batteries,
equipment buildings, and storage sheds, shelters, or similar structures.
c) Decommissioning Plan: A document that details the planned shut down and removal of a solar
energy system from operation or use.
d) Major Modification: Any change which would require findings of fact or evidence in addition to
those in the record of the public hearing for the original Special Use Permit, or subsequent
modifications, if any. By way of example, but not of limitation, any of the following shall constitute
a major modification requiring an application to be resubmitted in accordance with applicable
ordinance provisions:
1. Significant changes in the zoning lot’s boundaries, unless the purposes of this ordinance or
of the County’s plan for the comprehensive development of the area within which the lot
is located are satisfied to an equivalent or greater degree. Significant change in the
boundaries of the site if public purposes are not satisfied to an equivalent or greater degree;
2. A change in the use approved;
3. Significant changes in the location of principal and/or accessory structures and/or uses;
4. Structural alterations significantly affecting the basic size, form, style, ornamentation, and
appearance of principal and/or accessory structures as shown in the plan;
5. Significant changes in pedestrian or vehicular access or circulation
6. Significant changes in the amount or location of required landscape screening if an
alternate proposal does not provide the same or greater degree.
e) Property Owner: The person(s), entity, or company having fee simple ownership of the property
where the solar energy system is located.
f) Solar Array: An active solar energy system that converts sunlight into electricity using either
Thermal or photovoltaic methods. Such a system has multiple solar collectors, and might include
transformers, generators, batteries, and other appurtenant structures and/or facilities.
g) Solar Collector or Solar Panel: A device that converts sunlight into electricity using either thermal
or photovoltaic methods.
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h) Solar Energy System: The components and subsystems required to convert solar energy into
electric or thermal energy suitable for use. The area of the system includes all the land inside the
perimeter of the system, which extends to any fencing. Area restrictions are based on the acreage
of panels. The term applies, but is not limited to, solar photovoltaic (PV) systems, solar thermal
systems, and solar hot water systems. A system fits into one of three system types: Level 1 SES,
Level 2 SES, and Level 3 SES.
1. Level 1 Solar Energy System (SES) – Includes the following in all Person County Zoning
Districts:
i. Roof-mounted on any code-compliant structure.
ii. Ground mounted less than 1/2 acre.
iii. Covering permanent parking lots and other hardscape areas.
iv. Building integrated solar (i.e., shingle, hanging solar, canopy, etc.).
2. Level 2 Solar Energy System (SES) – Ground mounted systems greater than or equal to ½ acre
and less than ten (10) acres in all Person County Zoning Districts.
3. Level 3 Solar Energy System (SES) – Ground mounted systems greater than or equal to ten
(10) acres in all Person County Zoning Districts.
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ARTICLE 2. SITE DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS (REV. X/X/X)
2.1 General Regulations
Solar energy systems are permitted in Person County as follows:
Table 2.1 General Regulations for Solar Energy Systems in Person County
XP = Permitted Use ; SUP = Special Use Permit (or Conditional District Rezoning) ; X(left blank) =
Prohibited
Residential
(R)
Highway
Commercial
(B-1)
Neighborhood
Shopping (B-
2)
General
Industrial
(GI)
Rural
Conservation
(RC)
Level 1 XP XP XP XP XP
Level 2 SSUP SSUP SSUP SSUP SSUP
Level 3 X SSUP X SSUP SSUP
2.2 Setbacks
Setbacks for solar energy systems are measured from the nearest solar panel to the nearest dwellingproperty
line and/or right-of-way line. Setbacks for solar energy systems in Person County as follows:
Table 2.2 Setback Requirements for Solar Energy Systems in Person County
(left blan)X = Prohibited
Residential
(R)
Highway
Commercial
(B-1)
Neighborhood
Shopping (B-
2)
General
Industrial
(GI)
Rural
Conservation
(RC)
Level 1 Per District Regulations contained in Person County Planning Ordinance
Level 2 * 150300’ 150300’ 150300’ 150300’ 150300’
Level 3 * X 150300’ X 150300’ 150300’
* At a minimum, all properties shall provide the full buffer width of 150’ per Section 2.4 Buffers and
Landscaping. All solar energy systems shall be separated by a minimum distance of 300’ from all residential
dwellings, as measured from the nearest solar panel to the nearest dwelling. In addition, all solar energy
systems shall be separated by a minimum distance of 100’ from the nearest well.
Commented [SW1]: Changes in this section include new
abbreviations for uses. Under this revision, Level 3 solar will
not be allowed in Residential and B-2 Neighborhood
shopping areas and will require a special use permit in all
other districts.
Commented [SW2]: Changes in this section include
setbacks being determined by property lines and rights-of-
way instead of dwellings. Where allowed, setbacks have
been reduced from 300’ to 150’, as long as this will provide
for a minimum distance of 300’ from solar panels to
dwellings. There must also be a minimum distance of 100’
from solar systems to wells.
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EXCEPTION: Where a solar energy system facility is located on multiple contiguous lots of record in
separate ownership, the building setback and buffer requirement shall apply only to the exterior perimeter
of the project boundaries surrounding the facility and not the interior property boundaries within the facility.
A written waiver signed by the property owner(s) shall be required.
2.3 Height
a) For Level 1 roof mounted systems, height is limited to the applicable district regulation. The height
of Level 1, 2, and 3 ground mounted systems shall be measured from the highest natural grade
below each solar panel. For ground mounted systems, panel height shall not exceed 15’ in all
districts. Poles and wires reasonably necessary to connect to public electric utilities for all solar
energy systems shall not be subject to this requirement.
2.4 Buffers and Landscaping
a) Level 1 systems shall be exempt from buffering and landscaping requirements.
b) Solar collectors, accessory equipment, and associated outside storage for Level 2 and 3 systems
shall be completely screened with a 150’ 100’ vegetative buffer from view from all property and
right-of-way lines. Buffers shall include at a minimum, evergreen shrubs and a combination of
deciduous and evergreen trees as follows:
1. Every 500 square feet of buffer shall include one evergreen or deciduous tree that shall be
a minimum of 3’ 6’ at planting and have a minimum height of 15’ within 3 years and spread
(for the deciduous trees) of at least 30’ within 10 years; and,
2. 5 evergreen shrubs, or 3 evergreens and 2 deciduous shrubs, that shall be a minimum of 3’
at planting and have a height and spread of at least 5’ in 10 years.
3. Existing vegetation may be counted toward the required plantings when identified on a
landscape plan and certified by an arborist, landscape architect, landscape designer. Plants
identified for the buffer must be protected from all land disturbing activities and
construction at a distance equal to the drip line of the plant(s) to be used toward the buffer.
2.5 Aviation Notification
a) Level 1 systems shall be exempt from aviation notification requirements.
Commented [SW3]: Changes in this section reduce the
width of the buffer from 150’ to 100’, while increasing the
height at planting from 3’ to 6’. This change is intended to
allow for a more immediate visual screen while easing the
unintended consequence of needing a larger land
requirement for solar systems builds.
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b) For all Level 2 and 3 systems, a map analysis showing a radius of five (5) nautical miles from the
center of the solar energy system with any airport operations within this area highlighted shall be
submitted with the initial application.
1. For systems not containing airport operations within five (5) nautical miles from the center
of the solar energy system, attach map analysis results to permit application.
2. For systems containing airport operations within five (5) nautical miles from the center of
the solar energy system, the following items must be included with the permit application:
i. Map analysis results.
ii. Determination of whether the airport is in the National Plan of Integrated Airport
Systems (NPIAS).
iii. Documentation/certification that the project will not interfere with airport/aircraft
communications systems.
iv. Proof of delivery of notification, date of delivery, and response(s) for the
following documents:
a) For consideration of potential impacts to low altitude military flight paths,
notification of intent to construct the solar energy system shall be sent to
2.5-b Aviation Notification Continued
the NC Commanders Council at least 3045 days before the Special Use
Permit / Conditional Rezoning hearing for Level 2 and 3 solar energy
systems and at least 45 days before starting construction for all other Level
2 and 3 solar energy systems. Notification shall include location of solar
energy system (i.e. map, coordinates, address, or parcel ID), technology
(i.e. roof-mounted PV, ground mounted fixed PV, tracked PV, solar
thermal, etc.), and the area of the system (e.g. 5 acres).
b) If requested, Aa full report for each flight path and observation point, as
well as the contact information for the Planning Director, shall be sent to
the authority indicated below at least 4530 days before the Special Use
Permit / Conditional District Rezoning hearing for Level 2 and 3 solar
energy systems and at least 45 days before starting construction for all
other Level 2 and 3 solar energy systems. The latest version of the Solar
Glare Hazard Analysis Tool (SGHAT) shall be used per its user’s manual
to evaluate the solar glare aviation hazard. SGHAT can be accessed via
the following website: http://sandia.gov/glare.
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1. Airport operations at airports in the National Plan of Integrated
Airport Systems (NPIAS) within five nautical miles of the center
of SES: provide required information to the North Carolina
Division of Aviation and Federal Aviation Administration's
(FAA) Airport District Office (ADO) with oversight of North
Carolina and receive responses from those agencies at least 10
business days prior to the hearing. .Those responses shall be
provided to both the Person County Planning and Zoning
Department and the Person County Airport Commission.
2. Airport operations at airports not in the NPIAS, including military
airports, within five nautical miles of the center of SES: provide
required information to the NC Commanders Council for military
airports and to the management of the airport for non-military
airports.
v. Any applicable solar energy system design changes (e.g. module tilt, module
reflectivity, etc.) after initial submittal shall be rerun in the SGHAT tool and the
new full report shall be sent without undue delay to the contact specified in iii.b.
(1) and iii.b. (2) for accurate records of the as-built system.
2.6 Decommissioning and Abandonment
a) Decommissioning and abandonment requirements shall only apply to Level 2 and 3 solar energy
systems
1. Level 1 systems shall be exempt from decommissioning and abandonment requirements.
b) A solar energy system that ceases to produce energy on a continuous basis for 12 months will be
considered abandoned unless the current responsible party (or parties) with ownership interest in
the solar energy system provides substantial evidence (updated every six (6) months after 12
months of no energy production) to the Planning Director of the intent to maintain and reinstate the
operation of that facility. It is the responsibility of the responsible party (or parties) to remove all
equipment and facilities and restore the parcel to its condition prior to development of the solar
energy system. Restoration to less than the original condition is acceptable when it is requested in
writing by the parcel owner.
c) At the time of applying for permits, the applicant (solar energy system developer or property owner)
shall include a decommissioning plan addressing the following items:
Commented [SW4]: Changes in this section add 15
additional days of notification to the NC Commanders
Council prior to a Special Use Permit hearing for
consideration of potential impact to low altitude military
flight paths and require a full report for each flight path and
observation point. Also added, responses must be received
10 days in advance of the public hearing.
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1. Anticipated life of the solar energy system.
2. Defined conditions upon which decommissioning will be initiated (i.e. end of land lease,
no power production for 12 months, etc.)
3. Removal of all non-utility owned equipment, conduit, structures, fencing, solar panels, ,
and foundations.
4. Restoration of property to condition prior to development of the solar energy system.
5. Timeframe for completion of decommissioning activities, not to exceed one (1) year.
6. Description and copy of any lease or any other agreement with the property owner
regarding decommissioning.
7. Name and address of person or party responsible for decommissioning.
8. Plans and schedule for updating the Decommissioning Plan.
9. A verifiable means of determining if the decommissioning plan needs to be activated due
to cessation of use for 365 days, such as a letter from the electric utility stating that it will
notify the Planning Department within ten (10) business days if electricity is not received
from an array within the solar energy system for 365 days.
10. Estimated decommissioning costs including contingency costs of at least 25% (in current
dollars), as provided by an appropriately experienced, North Carolina licensed Engineer,
under seal.
d) Prior to the issuance of a zoning compliance certificate, the county must receive a performance
guarantee in favor of the county in an amount equal to 1.25 times the estimated decommissioning
cost as determined by a North Carolina licensed engineer. The performance guarantee must be
satisfactory to the Planning Director and may include a performance bond, irrevocable letter of
credit, cash deposit or other surety approved by the Planning Director and County Attorney.
Following initial submittal of the performance guarantee, the cost calculation for
decommissioning shall be reviewed every five (5) years, and adjusted accordingly based upon
an updated estimate of a North Carolina licensed Engineer under seal, of the estimated
decommissioning costs. Failure to comply with any requirement of this section shall result in
the immediate termination and revocation of all prior approvals and permits; further, the
County shall be entitled to make immediate demand upon, and/or retain any proceeds of, the
surety, which shall be used for decommissioning and/or removal of the solar energy system,
even if still operational.
Commented [SW5]: Revisions to this section require a
routine evaluation for the cost calculation for
decommissioning to be done every 5 years.
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ARTICLE 3. LEGAL PROVISIONS (REV. X/X/X)
3.1 Procedure for Solar Energy System Development Approval
a) After the effective date of this ordinance, no proposed solar energy system as defined in this
ordinance and within Person County’s jurisdiction shall proceed with construction until it has been
submitted to and approved by the Planning Director or his/her designee and as evidenced by an
approved Person County Zoning Permit in accordance with the provisions of this ordinance.
b) Existing SES developments are governed under the Planning Ordinance regulations in place prior
to the effective date of this ordinance unless a major modification as defined by this ordinance is
proposed and requires a new Special Use Permit to be issued. If a new Special Use Permit is
required, the SES will be required to meet the provisions of this Ordinance.
c) Level 1 Solar Energy Systems as Permitted Uses
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Level 1 solar energy systems allowed as permitted uses must meet the applicable height, setback, ,
and related district standards. Level 1 solar energy systems must complete the following for
approval:
1. Approval from Person County Environmental Health or the City of Roxboro Public Works.
2. Addressing from Person County GIS.
3. Zoning permit application and site plan for Person County Planning and Zoning. *
4. Building permit application and building plans for Person County Building Inspections.
In addition to general site plan requirements, site plans submitted to Person County Planning and
Zoning for Level 1 solar energy systems must show the following:
1. The entire property boundary including existing structures.
2. Planned location of each solar array and accessory equipment.
3. The front, rear, and side setbacks of the solar array and accessory equipment.
4. (If applicable) Required buffer areas with description.
5. A table containing the number, dimensions, height, and type of each proposed solar array
including their generating capacity.
*Following completion of construction, Level 1 ground mounted solar energy systems may be
required to submit a final as-built survey to the Planning Director. Following approval of the final
as-built survey, systems may receive their Certificate of Occupancy.
d) Level 2 Solar Energy Systems as Permitted Uses
Level 2 solar energy systems allowed as permitted uses must meet the applicable height, setback,
aviation notification, and related district standards. Level 2 solar energy systems must complete the
following for approval:
1. Approval from Person County Environmental Health or the City of Roxboro Public Works.
2. Addressing from Person County GIS.
3. Zoning permit application and site plan for Person County Planning and Zoning. *
4. Decommissioning Plan submitted to Person County Planning and Zoning.
5. Building permit application and building plans for Person County Building Inspections.
In addition to the standards listed in the Person County Planning Ordinance Commercial and
Industrial Site Plan Requirements, the site plan submitted to Person County Planning and Zoning
must show the following:
Formatted: Indent: Left: 0"
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1. Planned location of each solar array and accessory equipment.
2. The front, rear, and side setbacks of the solar array and accessory equipment.
3. (If applicable) Required buffer areas with description.
4. A table containing the number, dimensions, height, and type of each proposed solar array
including their generating capacity.
*Level 2 solar energy systems in the Neuse watershed may require additional materials
Following completion of construction, all Level 2 solar energy systems shall submit a final as-built
survey to the Planning Director. Following submission and approval of the final as-built survey,
Level 2 solar energy systems must receive an approved final zoning inspection performed on-site
by the Person County Planning and Zoning Department prior to receiving their Certificate of
Occupancy. Properties located in the Neuse watershed may require additional materials prior to
receiving their Certificate of Occupancy.
e) Level 2 and 3 Solar Energy Systems Requiring Special Use Permits or Conditional District
Rezonings
Level 2 and 3 solar energy systems requiring Special Use Permits or Conditional District Rezonings
must submit a completed Special Use Permit/Conditional District Rezoning Application and site
plan to the Person County Planning and Zoning Department*. A copy of all aviation requirements
shall also be submitted to the Person County Airport Commission. Applicants may choose to
provide a sketch plan to the Planning Administrator ahead of a site plan, as sketch plans do not
require much investment and are an opportunity for the Planning Administrator to point out design
changes ahead of more expensive site planning.
1. In addition to the standards listed in the Person County Planning Ordinance Commercial
and Industrial Site Plan Requirements, the site plan submitted to Person County Planning
and Zoning must show the following:
a) A narrative describing the proposed solar energy system, including an overview of the
project and estimated megawatt output of the project.
1.b) Planned location of each solar array and accessory equipment.
2.c) The front, rear, and side setbacks of the solar array and accessory equipment.
3.d) (If applicable) Required buffer areas with description.
e) A table containing the number, dimensions, height, and type of each proposed solar
array including their generating capacity..
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f) Location where wiring is brought together for inter-connection to the system
components and/or the local utility power grid, and location of disconnect switch.
g) Location of any onsite battery storage systems/units.
1.
* Level 2 and 3 solar energy systems in the Neuse watershed may require additional
materials
2. The following information shall also be included in the submittal for a special use permit or
conditional district rezoning application:
a) A copy of the lease agreements with each property owner and any access and utility
easements. Lease agreements shall have a provision that describes how the agreement may
be renewed. Identifying information, as defined in North Carolina General Statute §14-
113.20(b), and proprietary information may be redacted.
b) Evidence that the electrical utility provider has established an agreement/contract with the
solar energy system owner to install an interconnected system. Any customer-owned
generator (off grid systems) shall be exempt from this requirement.
c) Documentation regarding the type and quantity of battery storage units and configurations,
if onsite battery storage systems are to be used. Any battery storage technology that
contains PFAS must be noted in the application. If the project intends on using PFAS-
containing battery storage technology, a containment plan and a separate decommissioning
plan from the plan described below must be submitted for approval. If the battery-
decommissioning plan includes recycling as a method for disposition of the spent batteries,
the name of the recycling facility permitted to accept PFAS-containing batteries must be
provided. If the project does not intend to use PFAS-containing batteries, certification from
the battery manufacturer must be provided stating that the batteries used do not contain
PFAS.
d) A Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment prepared by a duly licensed professional in the
State of North Carolina.
e) Fire Prevention and Emergency Response facilities shall be installed by the solar energy
system owner and approved by the Person County Fire Marshal to include, at a minimum,
the following:
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1. Confirmation that the fire department located in the same fire district as the major solar
energy system has or will acquire equipment to contain and extinguish any fire at the
solar energy system. Any new equipment requested by the fire district shall be paid for
by the major solar energy system owner.
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2. Chemical fire suppressants shall be located and properly stored at each battery storage
area and transformer as directed by the County Fire Marshal.
3. An Emergency Response Plan consistent with all applicable Federal Emergency
Management Agency guidelines shall be prepared by the solar energy syetem owner
and approved by the County Fire Marshal.
4. The 50’ area in between the edge of the buffer and the panels shall be maintained and
inspected on an annual basis (see Section 3.1-i) to ensure that emergency vehicles can
adequately access the perimeter of the site.
f) Other relevant studies, reports, certifications, information, documents and approvals as
may be reasonably requested by the County to ensure compliance with this ordinance.
Recognizing the unique environmental challenges of a solar energy system, studies that
may be required under this paragraph may include but are not limited to the following:
1. Field surveys for all State or Federal listed species that are protected under State or
Federal Law;
2. Geologic reports mapping and describing geological resources such as bedrock
outcrops, groundwater recharge zones, seeps, springs and general characterization of
groundwater resources;
3. Surface water resources including wetlands;
4. Site specific soil surveys to include information on prime farmland soils as classified
by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, hydric soils and hydric
components of non-hydric soil series, soil erodibility, agricultural suitability and site
index for growing timber;
5. Environmental constraints analysis;
6. Other studies of the project site, receiving waters, and adjacent or nearby natural and
environmental resources as may be requested by any County agency.
f) Special Use Permit/Conditional District Rezoning aApplications and site plans shall be submitted
in a timely manner so as to allow Person County Planning and Zoning staff adequate time to meet
legislative advertising requirements. The Person County Board of Commissioners will conduct a
public hearing to review the solar energy system Special Use Permit/Conditional District Rezoning.
Following review of the application, the Board of Commissioners will render a decision.
g) Following approval of the Special Use Permit or Conditional District Rezoning, Level 2 and 3 solar
energy systems must complete the following for approval:
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1. Approval from Person County Environmental Health or the City of Roxboro Public Works.
2. Addressing from Person County GIS.
3. Zoning permit application and approved site plan for Person County Planning and Zoning.*
4. Decommissioning Plan submitted to Person County Planning and Zoning.
5. Building permit application and building plans for Person County Building Inspections.
* Level 2 and 3 solar energy systems in the Neuse watershed may require additional materials
h) Following completion of construction, all Level 2 and 3 solar energy systems shall submit the
following:
1. aA final as-built survey shall be submitted to the Planning Director.
2. A letter of certification from a North Carolina licensed engineer indicating that the inverter
noise shall not exceed the lower of 3dBA Leg (1 HR) above preconstruction background
or 40 Leg (1 HR) dBA, measured at any property line during output that exceeds 95% rated
capacity from the facility.
Following submission and approval of the final as-built survey and noise level certification letter,
Level 2 and 3 solar energy systems must receive an approved final zoning inspection performed
on-site by the Person County Planning and Zoning Department prior to receiving their Certificate
of Occupancy. Properties located in the Neuse watershed may require additional materials prior to
receiving their Certificate of Occupancy.
h)i) An annual inspection performed by the Planning Director and/or his designee to ensure compliance
with the requirements of this ordinance and an inspection fee shall be charged to the owner of the
solar energy system as set out in the official fee schedule approved by the Person County Board of
Commissioners. Any deficiencies noted shall be corrected upon receipt of notice from the Planning
Director, either following the annual inspection or when the deficiency becomes known to the
Planning Director or owner of the solar energy system.
3.2 Penalties for Violations
Any person, firm, corporation, or other entity who constructs, maintains or operates, or who controls
the maintenance of a solar energy system in violation of this Ordinance shall be guilty of a misdemeanor
and subject to prosecution, and if convicted, shall be punished by a fine not to exceed $500, or by
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imprisonment not to exceed 30 days, or both, in the discretion of the court. Each day that said solar
energy system is constructed, maintained or operated in violation of this Ordinance shall constitute a
separate and distinct offense.
3.3 Severability
Should any provision of this Ordinance be declared by any court, administrative body, or board, or any
other governmental body or board, to be unconstitutional, invalid, preempted, void, or otherwise
inapplicable for any reason, such decision shall not affect the validity of this Ordinance as a whole or
any part thereof other than the part so decided to be unconstitutional, invalid, preempted, void, or
otherwise inapplicable.
3.4 Variance
A variance from the provisions of this Ordinance may be authorized by the Board of Adjustment
provided that all of the following criteria are met:
a) Unnecessary hardship would result from the strict application of the Ordinance. It shall not be
necessary to demonstrate that, in the absence of the variance, no reasonable use can be made of the
property.
b) The hardship results from conditions that are peculiar to the property, such as location, size, or
topography. Hardships resulting from personal circumstances, as well as hardships resulting from
conditions that are common to the neighborhood or the general public, may not be the basis for
granting a variance.
c) The hardship did not result from actions taken by the applicant or property owner. The act of
purchasing property with knowledge that circumstances exist that may justify the granting of a
variance shall not be regarded as a self-created hardship.
d) The requested variance is consistent with the spirit, purpose, and intent of the Ordinance, such that
public safety is secured, and substantial justice is achieved.
3.5 Effective Date
This Ordinance is duly adopted by the Board of Commissioners of Person County, North Carolina
this 5th day of October, 2020.
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Date of Adoption: October 5th, 2020 18
Adopted, this, the 5th day of October 2020.
Revised, this, the ___ day of _____________, 202_.
Gordon PowellB. Ray Jeffers, Chairman Date
Person County Board of Commissioners
Attested by:
Brenda B. Reaves, Clerk to the Person County Board of Commissioners
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Solar Energy System Ordinance Requirements in NC
Regulated By:
Zoning Districts Where
Allowed Setbacks Buffer Requirements
Decommissioning Plan
Review / Annual Inspection Height of Panels Size Limitation Battery Storage
Environmental Assessment
& Other Relevant Studies Fee
Person County
(Existing)
Different levels (level 1, 2
and 3)
Level 3 SES's require
the approval of a SUP
or CD rezoning in B1
(Highway Commercial),
GI (General Industrial)
and RC (Rural
Conservation).
300' from nearest
dwelling. At a
minimum, 150' since
that is the width of
the required buffer.
150' wide vegetative buffer. Every
500 square feet of buffer shall
include one evergreen or deciduous
tree that shall be a minimum of 3’ at
planting and have a height and
spread of at least 30’ within 10 years;
and, 5 evergreen shrubs, or 3
evergreens and 2 deciduous shrubs,
that shall be a minimum of 3’ at
planting and have a height and
spread of at least 5’ in 10 years.
While the County requires a
decommissioning plan,
there is no review of the
plan once it is submitted
and no annual inspection of
the site.
Max. height of
15'No Not Addressed N/A
Conditional rezoning
fee ($350 = $10 an
acre) or special use
permit fee ($250 = $10
an acre). If approved,
zoning permit for non-
residential + $150 up
to 2 acres of lot size +
$25 per acre over 1
acre lot size.
Person County
(Proposed)
NO CHANGE FROM
CURRENT; HOWEVER
THERE ARE ADDITIONAL
SUBMITTAL
REQUIREMENTS BEING
ADDED TO THE
APPLICATION FOR THE
SPECIAL USE PERMIT/
CONDITIONAL DISTRICT
REZONING.
NO CHANGE FROM
CURRENT; HOWEVER
THE TABLE IS BEING
TWEAKED TO BE EASIER
TO READ AND
UNDERSTAND AND
MATCH OUR PLANNING
ORDINANCE
NO CHANGE FROM
CURRENT; HOWEVER
THE
LANGUAGE/TABLES
WILL BE TWEAKED TO
BE EASIER TO
UNDERSTAND
100' wide buffer. Height at planting
has increased to 6' and must reach a
minimum of 15' in height within 3
years.
Requires a review of the
decommissioning plan and
cost analaysis every 5 years
or upon change of
owenrship.Requires
annual inspection by staff
to ensure compliance and
an inspection fee shall be
charged (proposed fee
change at a later date).
NO CHANGE
FROM CURRENT
NO CHANGE
FROM CURRENT
Documentation must be
submitted regarding the
type and quantity of
battery storage units
and the location of the
storage area must be
shown on the site plan.
Any battery storage
that contains PFAS
(chemical sometimes
used on the panels), a
separate containment
plan and
decommissioning plan
for it must be
submitted.
A Phase 1 environmental
assessment is required with
all applications. Other
possible studies (if
requested) include: field
surveys for federally listed
species, geological reports,
surface water resources
(including wetlands),
farmlands and
environmental constraints.
Also, a noise level
certificaiton letter from an
engineer will be required.
No change proposed
at this time unless
directed by BOC. Will
bring new review fees
and annual inspection
fees to the BOC as part
of the annual fee
schedule review/
modification.
Beaufort County
All major SES's require the
approval of a solar energy
facility development permit
by the Planning Board.
The county is currently
unzoned.
The fence which
surrounds the SES
shall be setback at
least 100' from all
property lines and
R/W's. Solar arrays
shall be setback at
least 25' from the
interior fence line.
All SES"s shall be
setback a minimum
of 300' from all
residential,
commercial and
industrial buildings.
A vegetative buffer shall be installed
in front of the fence within the
required setback of the SES. The
buffer shall consist of a row of
evergreen bushes, planted no more
than 8' apart, which are at least 6' tall
at the time of planning, which will
reach a maturity height of 15' within
3 years of planting.
The cost calculaiton for
decommissioning shall be
reviewed every 5 years
Height of panels
shall not exceed
height of
vegetative buffer No N/A
Other relevant studies,
reports, certifications and
approvals may be requested
by the Planning Board.$500 for zoning permit
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Warren County
Smaller scale versus larger
scale. Larger scale solar is
allowed by right in Highway
Business, Light Industrial
and Heavy Industrial zoning
districts.
Larger scale solar is
allowed by right in
Highway Business, Light
Industrial and Heavy
Industrial zoning
districts.
50' from all property
lines
No minimum width. Shrubs shall be 3'
in height at time of planting and
reach a maturity of 8' within 5 years.
The SES shall be inspected
annually for the first three
years following the issuance
of the permit by the Zoning
Administrator to ensure
compliance.
Max. height of
15'No N/A N/A $500 per Megawatt
Stanly County
Minor (generates up to two
times the amount of power
used on the property over
the course of one year)-
allowed by right. Major (all
others) allowed with a
conditional district rezoning
to an overlay district in R, M
or B (Residential,
Manufacturing or Business)
zoning districts.
Major SES allowed with
a conditional district
rezoning to an overlay
district in R, M or B
(Residential,
Manufacturing or
Business) zoning
districts.
All structures,
including fencing,
shall be a minimum
of 250' from a
property line.
100' wide buffer that provides a
visual buffer of at least 80% opacity
to a height of 10' within 4 growing
seasons.
Requires a review of the
decommissioning plan and
cost analaysis every 5 years
or upon change of
owenrship. Requires
annual inspection by staff
to ensure compliance and
an inspection fee ($300)
shall be charged.
Max. height of
20'No
Documentation must be
submitted regarding the
type and quantity of
battery storage units
and the location of the
storage area must be
shown on the site plan.
Any battery storage
that contains PFAS
(chemical sometimes
used on the panels), a
separate containment
plan and
decommissioning plan
for it must be
submitted.
A Phase 1 environmental
assessment is required with
all applications. Other
possible studies (if
requested) include: field
surveys for federally listed
species, geological reports,
surface water resources
(including wetlands),
farmlands and
environmental constraints.
Also, a noise level
vertificaiton letter from an
engineer.
Overlay rezoning fee is
$300 per acre or
portion of acre, $4,000
max. fee
Nash County
Accessory use versus
principal use. Allowed by
right in all industrial
districts and requires a
conditional district rezoning
in the Agricultural, R-40 and
Rural Commercial zoning
districts.
Allowed by right in all
industrial districts and
requires a conditional
district rezoning in the
Agricultural, R-40 and
Rural Commercial
zoning districts.
Must meet the
principal building
setbacks of the
zoning district in
which it is located. In
the Industrial
districts, the front
setback varies from
50' - 100', side
setback is 10' and
rear setback is 20'.
If the SES is located so that it is within
100' of a lot used for residential
purposes or zoned residential, a
minimum of a 25' wide buffer is
required. Otherwise, no buffer is
required. Buffers require 3 canopy
trees and 5 understory trees per 100
linear feet.
N/A (does not require a
decommissioning plan)
Max. height of
25'No N/A N/A
In addition to the CD
rezoning fee, the SES
fee (excluding
accessory for
residential) is $1,000
per MW with a
minimum fee of
$2500.
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Carteret County
Residential accessory use
versus commercial use.
Allowed by right in all
zoned and unzoned
areas of the county.
Would require review
by the Commercial TRC
(Technical Review
Committee) at staff
level.
All improved areas
must be a minimum
of one hundred
twenty-five (125) feet
from all property
lines.
25' wide vegetative buffer including a
row of evergreens which are a
minimum of six (6) feet in height at
the time of planting and not spaced
more than eight (8) feet apart which
at maturity will from an intermittent
visual barrier to a height of fifteen
(15) feet. Evergreens shall reach
maturity within five (5) years of
planting. Also, a separate row of
shrubs that are dense , low-lying,
continuous and planted to as to
visually fill in the gaps between the
trunks of the evergreens. Lastly, a
minimum of a six (6) foot tall opaque
fence shall also be erected with the
finished side facing the abutting
property.
Certified cost estimates (for
decommissioning) must be
renewed every five (5)
years.
Maximum height
of 15'N/A N/A
Any other relevant studies,
reports, certificates and
approval as may reasonably
be required by the County.$100 plus $5 panel
Granville County
Requires conditional district
rezoning to ASE-CZ
(AgriSupport Enterprises
District). Not allowed in any
other zoning district except
I-1 and I-2 (Industrial).
Requires conditional
district rezoning to ASE-
CZ (AgriSupport
Enterprises District).
Not allowed in any
other zoning district
except I-1 and I-2
(Industrial).
25' setback from
property lines or
whatever is required
in underlying zoning
district.
A 25' vegetative buffer shall be
required around the entire solar
farm. Any plantings of bushes,
shrubs, and/or trees in two rows of
coverage shall reach a height at
maturity of at least 10 feet and shall
reach maturity in a reasonable
amount of time. A fence shall also be
required around the perimeter of the
solar farm and the fence shall be a
minimum of 10 ft. in height. It shall
also be a chain link fence with dark
green slats to minimize the view of
the solar farm.N/A
Max. height of
15'No N/A N/A
Requires conditional
district rezoning,
which has a fee of
$995 up to 1 acre of
land area + $25 per
acre over 1 acre of
land area
Orange County
Residential versus non-
residential. Residential -
have a rated capacity not to
exceed 20 kw. Non-
residential is further broken
down into Large Facility
Solar Array and Public
Utility Solar Array. A Large
Facility Array produces
more than 20 but less than
100 KW of power. A Public
Utility Array produces more
than 100 KW of power.
For large solar array -
Special Use Permit
required in all zoning
districts except it is
prohibited in EC5 and
EI. CD rezoning
allowed in ASE-CD and
MPD-CD districts.
The minimum
setback required in
the underlying zoning
district, including any
required buffers.
A Type D buffer is required where the
solar array abuts residential - 50'
vegetative buffer in width with 6
canopy trees, 1 evergreen tree, 4
deciduous trees, 10 evergreens and
77 shrubs every 100 linear feet. N/A
Shall not exceed
the max. height
of the height
requirements
found in that
district.No
All mechanical
equipment, including
any storage for
batteries or storage
cells, shall be
completely enclosed by
a minimum 8' high
fence with a self-locking
gate and screened.
Environmental assessment
and/or Environmental
Impact Statement required
for special use permits in
Orange County if project is
greater than 2 acres.
$560 staff review fee +
$30 sign posting fee +
$1 mailing fee for each
parcel for mailed
notification
SES = Solar Energy System
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1
Summary of Proposed Changes to the Person County Solar Energy System Ordinance
*Please note that the moratorium adopted by the Board of Commissioners on Aug. 16, 2021 only applies to
level 3 solar energy systems (SES).
Article 1: General Provision
• No proposed changes
Article 2: Site Development Requirements
• Table 2.1 General Regulations
o The table is being amended to reflect how uses are listed in the Person County Planning
Ordinance. Permitted Uses will be represented by “X” rather than “P.” Special Use
Permits/Conditional District (CD) Rezonings are represented by “S.” If prohibited,
the cell in the table is left blank.
o There are no proposed changes to where level 3 SES’s can be located (i.e., in what
zoning district they are permitted/require special use permit/CD rezoning or
prohibited).
• Table 2.2 Setbacks
o The proposed setbacks are not changing although the verbiage in the Table is
changing. The table will clearly depict a minimum 150’ setback from all property
lines and R/W lines, and include a 300’ setback from residential dwellings. Setbacks
in the Planning Ordinance table are measured from property lines and/or R/W lines.
If the use is prohibited in a particular zoning district (in the Planning Ordinance), that
cell in the table is left blank. Staff wanted consistency between the ordinances.
o A new setback was added – 100’ from all wells (in addition to all other setbacks being
met).
• Section 2.4 Buffers and Landscaping
o The buffer width is being reduced from 150’ to 100’. This will allow for a 50’ wide
area around the site for emergency vehicle access (see changes to Section 4.1).
o The minimum height of trees at planting is being increased from 3’ to 6.’ The trees
shall also reach a minimum height of 15’ within 3 years.
• Section 2.5 Aviation Notification
o Notification must be sent to the NC Commander’s Council 45 days in advance of the
public hearing (instead of 30 days).
o Flight path reports are required 45 days in advance of the public hearing (instead of 30
days).
o Solar glare studies are required rather than “if requested by the Planning Director” for
SES’s located within 5 nautical miles of the airport.
o All responses from NC Div. of Aviation and FAA must be received a minimum of 10
business days prior to the public hearing.
• Section 2.6 Decommissioning and Abandonment
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2
o The cost calculation for the performance guarantee (for decommissioning) shall be
reviewed every 5 years and adjusted accordingly.
Article 3: Legal Provisions
• Section 4.1 Procedure for Solar Energy System Development Approval
o Conditional District Rezonings is being added to any section that reads “special use
permit” in order to clarify that the applicant can apply for either process.
o All applications for Special use permits/CD rezonings shall also submit all aviation
requirements to the Person County Airport Commission in addition to the Planning
staff.
o Special use permit/CD rezoning applications shall include the following additional
information on the site plan:
Narrative describing the project
Location where wiring is brought together for inter-connection to the system
Location of on-site battery storage (if applicable)
o Special use permit/CD rezoning applications shall also include the following submittals:
Copy of the lease agreement
Evidence that the electrical utility provider has established an
agreement/contract with the SES owner
Documentation regarding the battery storage. Any battery storage that
contains PFAS (Per/Poly Fluoro-Alkyl Substances – a class of chemical
compounds that creates a coating that is highly water repellent) must be noted
and a containment plan and separate decommissioning plan shall be submitted
for it.
Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment must be submitted
Fire Prevention and Emergency Response facilities including: confirmation
that the local fire dept. has or will acquire equipment to contain and extinguish
any fire (any new equipment shall be paid for by the SES owner), chemical fire
suppressants shall be located at battery storage areas, an emergency response
plan shall be prepared and approved by the County Fire Marshal and the 50’
area between the buffer and panels shall be maintained and inspected on an
annual basis.
Other relevant studies/documents as required by the County including: field
surveys for all State and Federally listed species that are protected under State
or Federal law, geological reports, wetland studies, site specific soil surveys,
environmental constraints analysis and other studies as required by the County.
o Prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy, a noise level certification letter shall
be submitted.
o An annual inspection shall be performed by the Planning staff to ensure compliance with
the requirements of this Ordinance.
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EDC Meeting
November 23, 2021
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Solar Ordinance Review
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Director’s Report
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DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Updates Since October Meeting
On Monday, 11/15, NC Commerce Secretary Machelle Sanders, Assistant
Secretary of Rural Economic Development Kenny Flowers, and an entourage of
fellow Commerce and Office of State Budget and Management staff visited
Person County for an update and tour of the Person County Mega Park.
In 2018, NC Commerce awarded Person County a $1.6 million grant to construct a
waterline to the site. Construction of the 12" waterline, capable of supplying up
to 2.5 million gallons per day of water to the site, was completed in 2020.
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DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Open Book Extracts held an Ag Education and
Economic Development Summit on November
10th, led by Dave Neundorfer and Oz Hackett.
Their audience consisted of leaders from the NC
Chamber, RACC, NC A&T, NC Biotech Center,
PCC, Durham Tech, NC Community Colleges,
EDPNC, RTRP, NCGA and OBX Board Members.
They explained their many diverse partnerships
in the hemp and CBD industry and shared some
rare certifications, such as being cGMP certified
for food processing and neutraceuticals.
The have products in the areas of health and
wellness, as well as pet food products.
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DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Raleigh Regional Airport at Person County
Congressman Budd visited the RRA@PC on November 1st.
He was provided an update on the hangar construction and
other improvements and took a brief tour.
In our branding and marketing efforts, we reach a compromise on an approved logo.
NC Budget was signed into law on 11/18, with funding that was included for projects at
Raleigh Regional.
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DIRECTOR’S REPORT
Quarterly Update on Project Activity
•Worked 23 new projects since the August Annual Update
•New projects represent more than $10B in investment and 17,000 jobs.
•7 –large projects for PCMP; 2 –no inventory; 4 –North Park; 4 –Other; 6 –Labeled as
inquiries (time spent working with developers on property searches or small business
start-ups or expansions outside of recruitment scope)
Upcoming
•The next regularly-scheduled meeting is planned for January 25, 2022.
•Response expected from EDA on Phase I BBBRC NOFO.
•IRC meetings will resume in January.
•I have another public records request to respond to; the last one took 8 days to
compile.
NOTE!
•We are currently experiencing some issues with the website that we have been
sorting through with our host company for the past week and hope to have resolved
before the holiday.
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Assistant Director
•Attended and supported previously-listed events, meetings, and ribbon-
cuttings
•Supported Perkins V workshop at PCC, led by PCS, with training and
curriculum partners
•Has participated in NCEDA events and workshops
•Is serving as the EDC representative on the URG board
•Has met a number of existing industries through the job fair and other
events; we hope to get an onsite visit scheduled by the end of the year
and utilize the IRC meetings to jumpstart others.
•Professional passenger van/tour driver
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Partner Collaborations
•On October 29th, we held a job fair in conjunction
with RACC, PCC, NC Works, KTCOG, & VGCC
•~20 companies participated and at least 60 job
seekers passed through
•Continued Collaboration with RACC and KTCOG
counties on planning the 2022 Regional Economic
Development Summit
•RTRP has arranged for virtual site selector meetings
for November/December in lieu of travel. 1st was
11/22; 4 more scheduled.
•RTRP developed new video for the region on
workforce training; will be added to EDC website
•https://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=CyjqfMYJIAc
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THANK YOU!!
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