Houston County Extends Moratorium on Commercial Solar Projects

During the May 27 Houston County Commission meeting, commissioners voted to extend the interim moratorium on commercial solar projects for an additional six months. The decision followed a recommendation from the county’s planning commission and a formal request from the Houston County Township Association.

Chairman Eric Johnson called the meeting to order 9 a.m. with the Pledge of Allegiance.

Commissioners in attendance included Cindy Wright, Kurt Zehnder, Bob Schuldt, Greg Myhre and Chairman Eric Johnson.

In a rare occurrence, the meeting featured no items on the consent agenda.

Larry Gaustad, president of the Houston County Township Association, addressed the board during the meeting, explaining that the Association held its own meeting on May 8 and voted to request the moratorium extension.

The motion to extend the moratorium passed by roll call vote during the action items portion of the meeting. Commissioners noted that the extension would allow for further research and time to answer questions related to commercial solar development.

“I think it would be a good idea to slow the process and make sure that we are going through it thoroughly,” said Planning and Zoning Officer Amelia Meiners. “No need to feel rushed.”

Commissioner Cindy Wright, who attended the most recent planning commission meeting, noted that concerns had been raised by residents about the potential use of prime farmland for solar installations. She also referenced community apprehension about modifying the county’s comprehensive plan, which was adopted within the last two years. “I’m a believer that the county should make decisions and ordinances based on the need for the whole, not a specific project,” Wright said. “I think that’s probably what was in mind when this was proposed last year.”

Commissioner Greg Myhre asked for clarification to confirm that the moratorium applies only to commercial solar projects, not residential installations.

Economic Development Authority (EDA) Director Allison Wagner presented the 2024 annual report, highlighting ongoing initiatives. These included the business development program, revolving loan fund, an entrepreneurial event in collaboration with Ignite MN and Caledonia Forward, the Bluff Country Collaborative, and efforts in childcare, housing and farming. Additional highlights included the Houston Area Preservation Initiative, the Root River Trail expansion, and the Keep Company Co-working Space. Wagner emphasized that  the EDA’s goals for 2025 will continue to align with those set for 2024.

Wagner highlighted that the revolving loan fund currently has a substantial balance of $441,293.71 available for lending. Business owners in need of financing are encouraged to reach out to Wagner, as the EDA is eager to provide support.

Wagner said, “These achievements, alongside routine interactions with businesses and support for entrepreneurs, position Houston County as a leader in rural development.”

In other business, the board:

• Approved the updated meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 20 board meeting.

• Approved a Joint Powers Agreement for Region One Southeast Minnesota Homeland Security Emergency Management.

• Approved  several Conditional Use Permits (CUPs), including:  a manure storage structure with a capacity over 20,000 gallons in Caledonia Township; dwellings on less than 40 acres in the Agriculture Protection Districts for James and Suzanna Gulbranson in Spring Grove Township; for Miranda and Luke Schuttenhelm in Money Creek Township; and for Brooke Johns in Money Creek Township.

• Approved a guardianship contract with Clinton Brainerd. Public Health Human Services Director John Pugleasa confirmed that background checks are done every five years.

• Approved a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the American Federation of State, County, and Municipal Employees (AFSCME), AFL-CIO Local Union No. 2155, Council 65. The agreement revises the 2025-2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement to include the positions of County Attorney Administrative Legal Assistant, Network Administrator, and Network/Help Desk Technician within the union’s bargaining unit.

Before adjourning the meeting at 10:10 a.m., the board unanimously approved the claims as presented.