To the editor:

This past Saturday, a group gathered in the community room at Sunrise Project to hear County Commissioner Karen Willey give a program for the local chapter of Women For Kansas on solar siting regulations in our county. Differing viewpoints were represented, including supporters of solar development, opponents and those curious to learn more.

Commissioner Willey presented an in-depth look at the work a 10-person planning committee has done to create regulations to be met by applicants for solar installations in Douglas County. She stated the intentions were not to ban solar but identify what qualifications should be met.

The top two concerns voiced by the public have included erosion and use of pesticides. These concerns and aspects of site selection have been thoroughly investigated and addressed.

Commissioner Willey’s presentation was informative, detailed and comprehensive. More remarkable, however, was the absence of contentious debate. Rather, all those present listened respectfully. When the opportunity for questions arose, most of those present spoke up. Questions were answered and a calm, respectful discussion continued until the program ended.

This experience was refreshing, notable because of the divisive nature of the times we find ourselves in. This meeting and exchange of ideas and opinions served as a hopeful sign that we, as a society, continue to have the skills and desire to function in a respectful, democratic manner as we grapple with big challenges.

Thank you to all who participated.

A link to the Douglas County solar siting regulations can be found at douglascountyks.org

Kelly Wall,

Lawrence