Casco Planning Commission explores zoning language for renewable energy during moratorium period

L to R: Commissioners Greg Knisley, Trustee Rep. Dan Fleming, John Kasishke, and Chair Andy Litts

The Casco Township Planning Commission continued its review of solar, wind, and battery storage regulations during its July 22 meeting, Earlier this year, the Township initiated a six-month moratorium on renewable energy projects, giving the commission time to explore ordinance language.

Much of the meeting centered on Public Act 233, Michigan's 2023 renewable energy law, and whether Casco Township should adopt a Compatible Renewable Energy Ordinance (CREO) governing commercial solar, wind and battery storage projects.

Zoning Administrator Tasha Smalley said that while the state has established standards for larger renewable energy developments, municipalities may adopt their own ordinances as long as they are considered "workable" or "reasonable" under state law. Any ordinance drafted by the Casco Township Planning Commission would be reviewed by the Township attorney to determine if it is "workable," "reasonable," or "defendable in court," Chair Andy Litts said.

Smalley also instructed the commission that a local ordinance cannot be more strict than the State's ordinance. An entity can choose to work under the State ordinance or a local Township ordinance. Smalley explained that an entity might find it faster to work with a local Township, as State reviewed projects can have a timeline of a year or more.

Commission members discussed the differences between residential solar installations, mid-sized commercial projects and utility-scale facilities. Projects of less than 50 megawatts generally remain under local review, while larger developments, 50 megawatts and above for solar, fall under state oversight. Generally, a 50 megawatt farm would use 200-400 acres of land.

The commission also reviewed a draft solar ordinance from South Haven Township as a possible model for Casco Township. Topics included setbacks, vegetation buffers, escrow accounts for decommissioning, height limits, noise, electromagnetic fields, and the long-term removal of solar equipment at the end of 30- to 40-year lease agreements.

Commissioners also discussed why developers might consider Casco Township, noting the presence of major electrical transmission lines in the Township that could make certain areas attractive for future renewable energy projects.

The meeting marked the first for newly appointed Planning Commissioner John Kasishke, a lifelong Casco Township resident, retired Palisades employee and former farmer. He now resides in Miami Park. Kasishke said he looks forward to serving on the commission. He is completing the term of former commissioner Kelly Hecker, who recently resigned.

Commissioners also discussed corrections to the June meeting minutes after receiving correspondence from resident Peter Brown requesting such. Brown submitted a 12-page letter citing court decisions related to minimum home square footage requirements.

In public comment, Julie Cowie shared information and handouts from a recent Housing Town Hall convened by State Representative Joey Andrews (D-38).

The Planning Commission generally meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 6:00 pm at the Casco Township Hall, 7104 107th Avenue. This meeting was rescheduled to the fourth Wednesday, July 22.

A new public address system of microphones at every seat was utilized by the commissioners. Andy Litts, Dian Liepe, Ryan Brush, Greg Knisley, Trustee Dan Fleming, and John Kasishke were present. Zoning Administrator Tasha Smalley was also present. Commissioner Paul Macyauski was absent.