Columbiana County Commissioners met Tuesday to gather testimony regarding a ban on wind and solar farms which was proposed early this summer. 

The ban, requested by the townships of Elkrun, Hanover, Knox, and Madison, comes after Butler, Center, Middleton, Salem, Unity, Washington, and Wayne townships all received approval from the commissioners for similar bans in May of 2023. 

At the Wednesday meeting, residents from Knox, Franklin, and Madison township spoke to express their concerns and provide comment on the proposed rulemaking. 

Residents were primarily concerned that the rule would prevent individuals from doing what they want with their own property. However, the proposed ban would only effect large fields, 50 megawatts or larger, which are unlikely to be built by average homeowners. 

Residents were advised that the final decision would be made sometime after the 4:00pm August 11th deadline for public comment.

Anyone wishing to submit public comment may do so by mailing their written concerns to the Commissioners Office, at 105 South Market Street, Lisbon, Ohio 44432.