Solar Hearing Mason Plains, LLC - Wednesday, October 28, 2026

Effingham County special-use hearing on the Mason Plains, LLC solar project, October 28, 2026. The applicant’s case had been closed, and the committee heard resident testimony before adjourning without deciding the permit. The proposed community solar facility is described as 3.6 MW AC, with a 22-acre fenced area and approximately 15–16 acres of panels. Residents raised concerns about road routes and damage, construction and operating noise, emergency response and fire planning, drainage and downstream flooding, wildlife, radon, and nearby property values. The landowner testified in support, citing the property’s history and his review of project safety and decommissioning matters.

Applicant representatives stated that a county road-use agreement would require pre- and post-construction road surveys and a claims process, with any additional affected road authorities’ approval required. They also agreed to further coordinate emergency-response planning with local agencies before a building permit; the committee referenced a further noise study as a pre-permit condition. No procurement, contract award, or spending decision was identified, and no vote was taken on the special-use application. The hearing was recessed to November 17, 2026, at 7:00 p.m., when closing arguments, public comment, and deliberation are expected.