From the highway the large solar developments north and east of Joshua Tree in Coyote Valley and Desert Heights appear of little consequence. Then on April 12, a violent dust storm, or haboob, sent residents running for cover and forced the closure of Copper Mountain College. In 2016 another haboob led to a 15-vehicle pile-up and caused dozens of injuries. And while not directly responsible, large-scale solar developments contribute to adverse events like these and others. Right now, the county is deciding what, if anything, will be done to minimize the impact of big solar on desert communities. Reporter Mike Lipsitz has this report on how you can weigh in…
Solar energy has far-reaching benefits, but when production is concentrated in utility-scale operations, it depresses property values, drives off wildlife, and impacts those with respiratory issues as desert clearing forces more dust in the air. Following a 9 a.m. public hearing on Thursday,
May 24, the County Planning Commission will consider what is called Policy 4.10 of the County General Plan’s Renewable Energy and Conservation Element. There are two versions of Policy 4.10, the original drafted out of community scoping meetings prohibits big solar in areas zoned rural living and those with community plans. A newer, county-staff-preferred version looks to have been drafted by developers themselves. It opens the door for placement of large solar fields in Morongo Basin, Johnson Valley, Lucerne, and other desert communities. Planning Commissioners can hear your opinion on this issue beginning Thursday at 9 a.m. via live video link from the first-floor teleconferencing room in the County Government Center on White Feather Road in Joshua Tree. Follow the links below for more information.
The Morongo Basin Conservation Association has arranged free bus transportation to Thursday morning’s Planning Commission hearing in San Bernardino. To receive more information and reserve your seat, email [email protected].
Notice of Hearing:
http://www.sbcounty.gov/uploads/LUS/Renewable/Notice
