TITLE: Title
Request-to-Set a Public Hearing on Land Use Ordinance Amendments Related to Solar Arrays
PURPOSE: The purpose of this agenda item is for the Board of Aldermen to consider setting a public hearing on amendments to the Land Use Ordinance related to roof and ground mounted solar arrays.
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DEPARTMENT: Planning
CONTACT INFORMATION: Christina Moon - 919-918-7325, Marty Roupe - 919-918-7333, Randy Dodd - 919-918-7326, Bob Hornik - 919-929-3905
INFORMATION: In the summer of 2016, staff from Orange County and Chapel Hill reached out Carrboro to share information about the SolSmart program, and to invite the Town to collaborate and seek designation. (Information about SolSmart may be found at the following link: http://www.gosparc.org/.)
To date, Town participation in the program has involved a general public statement regarding solar, an intensive review of the Land Use Ordinance with recommendations to make the LUO more solar friendly, and arrangements for specialized training for inspections and fire department employees. The completion of this level of work has earned the Town Bronze status in the SolSmart program. The adoption of LUO amendments and the completion of specialized training may promote the Town to Silver or Gold status.
A draft ordinance (Attachment B) has been prepared which establishes new definitions for building and ground mounted solar arrays and assigns permitting requirements on the basis of size and intensity. The proposal includes an accessory solar array use category which would be allowed by-right in most zoning districts.
The Board of Aldermen must receive public comment before adopting amendments to the LUO. Orange County and Planning Board review are also needed. Staff has identified the Appearance Commission and the Environmental Advisory Board for referral as well as the subject matter of the proposed amendment falls within their areas of expertise.
FISCAL & STAFF IMPACT: Public hearings involve...
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