Council OKs amendments for solar panels, wind energy

SPRING VALLEY — The Spring Valley City Council approved an ordinance amending the Spring Valley city code to include use-specific standards for solar electrical panels and wind energy systems during Monday night’s meeting.

Before approving the amendment, Alderman Ken Bogacz questioned some wording in the document in regard to the definition of a solar garden.

The building of a solar farm or a solar garden requires special use permits from the Plan Commission, but a single-family home wanting to install panels for the home does not.

Attorney James Andreoni explained, “I did not want every person who just wants one or two panels to have to go to the Plan Commission. Most home uses would meet the use guidelines and not need special permission. If the council was approached by one of the schools, for example,  we can still have some control since there are residences around the schools.”

The council also approved an agreement to retain The Power Bureau LLC as an electrical consultant for Spring Valley at $125 an hour not to exceed $3,500. Bluestem Energy Solutions and NextEra Energy have contacted the city to conduct studies in regard to the use of solar energy.

In other news:

• Mayor Walt Marini recognized Jack Cosgrove, who recently passed away. Marini said, “Jack Cosgrove and family have been in business for 100-plus years in Spring Valley. He was always willing to do what was needed to help in the community. Spring Valley will miss him.”

• Superintendent of Streets Jeff Norton told the council that the sewer relining under Route 6 was recently finished by Hoerr Construction and also spray patching was finished. Bogacz said, “The roads look really nice. Spray patching is a good way to extend the life of the roads since we have so many repairs to do. Nice job.”

• City Engineer Mike Richetta of Chamlin and Associates said that the motor fuel tax project has been approved, and road work will hopefully start in the beginning of August.

• The bid from Shearer Tree Service was approved for the removal of six ash trees.

• The council approved a $100 donation to the Walleye Club golf fundraiser. Also approved was the application by Spring Valley Historical Association to close the 100 and 200 blocks of West St. Paul Street for a car show on Saturday, Aug. 18.

• The next meeting will be at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 13 in the council chambers.