Edwards County Commissioners met yesterday in front of a large crowd of concerned farmers. They held discussions on solar farming, as solar energy company Ecoplexus talking about wording for upcoming solar farm regulation requirements. Commissioners have considered adopting a 500-foot setback from nearby residences to protect homeowners close to nearby solar power farms; currently, this would allow for 164 megawatts of power, and real estate taxes could increase from $425 for 40 acres used for solar farms to an estimated $26,000. The Albion City Council met last night. It heard the EPA has denied a compliance request for additional time to design a water treatment plant, but a meeting is scheduled for later this week to discuss the plant with the EPA. The council also heard Treasurer Sidney Gracyalny and Alderwoman Heather Borowiak will be leaving their positions in August and September, respectively. City Attorney Brian Shinkle asked for permission to file a breach of contract lawsuit
Fairfield Mayor Mike Dreith says the City is looking for civic groups and volunteer organizations to help with a home-painting effort as part of Renew Fairfield on April 23rd. He says about a dozen homes have been submitted for consideration, and five groups have volunteered their time to paint said homes. Anyone wanting to submit a potential home or to volunteer should call City Hall at 842-2294 or 842-3871. Homes must be single-level and owner-occupied, and the effort is targeted at those who may not be economically able to paint their homes or who are too elderly to do so. The day will also include electronics recycling at the Fairgrounds from 8 to noon, paper shredding, and the accepting of items at the Street and Bridge Department from 8 to noon. The Albion City Council met last night. Grayville's mayor and water commissioner were on hand to show support for a joint water treatment plant, and the two cities will meet with engineers on April 14th at Albion's City Hall to