The Lyon County Planning Board took steps to help commercial solar projects in general and a rock quarry company specifically in its monthly meeting Wednesday.
The Planning Board approved an addition to county zoning regulations pertaining to solar energy. Zoning Administrator Sam Seeley tells KVOE News the addition for commercial solar energy conversion systems is based on earlier changes connected to wind energy.
The main components are a maximum sound level of 60 decibels and a 300-foot buffer zone between any commercial solar project and existing or possible homes — if the planned homes are either under construction or in the zoning process.
Seeley says there interest in commercial solar energy is increasing across Kansas, although there are no companies officially considering Lyon County for a development.
Separately, the Planning Board approved a conditional use permit so US Stone can expand its quarry in the 700 block of Road by by around 160 acres. Lyon County commissioners could give their approval at their action meeting July 27.
