Tri-City Sun

State Representative Timmy Beson has highlighted an upcoming meeting concerning the implementation of new state laws affecting wind and solar project siting. These laws, once House Bills 5120-21 and now Public Acts 233-34 of 2023, have been a source of controversy due to their removal of local control over such projects.

The legislation grants the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) the authority to override local zoning ordinances for wind and solar farm applications. The MPSC consists of three appointees by the governor, who are not elected by residents, raising concerns about their accountability regarding local issues.

A public input session is scheduled for Tuesday, March 19, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m., held virtually via Microsoft Teams. Details for joining can be found on michigan.gov/mpsc under their events calendar.

"I have been a consistent voice for people across Bay County who have shared with me that these bills go too far in pushing a radical agenda onto local communities and residents who may not want these projects," said Beson, from Bay City. "This meeting is an opportunity for people to reiterate those concerns and help shape what these siting situations ultimately look like. It’s a way to speak directly to the commission that will be overseeing these steps and have a say."

The MPSC stated that discussions will cover various topics including application filing guidelines, fees, use of consultants, pre-application consultations, development of renewable energy ordinances compatible with community needs, among other related issues.