October 16, 2026 Ottawa County Board of Commissioners Work Session

The Ottawa County Board of Commissioners held a work session on October 16, 2026, to review the proposed RWE Silver Maple utility-scale solar project and the county’s possible participation in the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC) approval proceeding. The project is described as approximately 200 MW across a 1,900-acre area, with about 1,100 acres within the proposed fenced area in Zeeland and Jamestown townships. Staff and counsel explained the PA 233 process, the county’s status as an affected local unit, and the deadline to seek intervenor status ahead of the November 19 pretrial proceeding. No action or vote was taken at this work session; the board expects to consider intervention and related decisions at its October 27 meeting.

The board discussed potential county interests—including farmland preservation, housing and future growth, stormwater management, and related infrastructure—and the responsibilities and possible costs of participating, including legal counsel and expert witnesses. RWE provided a $50,000 reimbursement check for the county’s proceeding-related expenses; the county has not cashed it, and the board is to decide whether to accept the funds. County counsel emphasized that any petition to intervene must identify specific interests and positions. Public commenters largely urged the county to intervene and raised concerns about farmland, drainage, aviation safety, and community impacts. No procurement award or purchasing decision was identified.