LaPorte County Board of Zoning Appeals June 16, 2026

The LaPorte County Board of Zoning Appeals held a meeting on June 16, 2026, primarily addressing zoning petitions including variances and special exceptions. A significant portion of the meeting focused on the special exception petition by Yellowstone Solar Project LLC for the construction and operation of a 100-MW commercial large-scale ground-mounted solar energy system on approximately 626.85 acres in Johnson Township. The project proponents presented extensive documentation and studies addressing compliance with county solar ordinances, environmental impact, drainage, property values, and community benefits including economic impact and job creation. Public comments included both support and opposition, with concerns about natural disaster risks, property values, and land use compatibility. The board discussed procedural matters including recusals due to potential bias. Other petitions involved variances for residential setbacks, accessory structures, and keeping horses on less than three acres. Motions were made and votes taken on several variances, with some approved and others denied or tabled. The board emphasized the need for timely and complete submission of documentation for future petitions and discussed procedural improvements for meeting efficiency.