Today, the Board of Supervisors conducted a public hearing on the proposed ordinance guiding the process of the development of commercial solar energy generation facilities in San Bernardino County.

The purpose for this ordinance is to establish a process for deciding appropriate locations for solar facilities by protecting our natural resources, neighborhoods and rural residential areas, and also protecting and promoting a vibrant tourism economy.

This proposed ordinance is the result of the temporary moratorium on solar projects the Board put in place in June in order to develop these guidelines and incorporate them into the County General Plan. Adoption of the proposed ordinance would lift the temporary moratorium.

The Planning Commission held a public hearing on October 17^th, and recommended adoption of this ordinance. Results of public comments at those hearings have been incorporated into the draft ordinance.

“I would like to thank the Board, the CEO, Land Use Services and the many community groups who helped to provide input into developing this draft solar ordinance.  It is a significant issue to our desert communities and I am thankful we have given it immediate attention,” stated Supervisor Ramos.

Final adoption of the ordinance will take place at the December 17^th Board meeting. A copy of the proposed ordinance can be found on the December 3^rd Board agenda at http://cob-sire.sbcounty.gov/sirepub/.