The upcoming Shiawassee County Planning Commission meeting on November 15 isn't just another entry in our community calendar; it's a critical juncture for Shiawassee County's future. As the Chairperson of the Shiawassee County Democratic Party, I'm extending an invitation to all residents to engage in a decision-making process that will shape the way we live, work, and power our homes. The agenda for tonight's meeting is below:
The topic at hand is the creation of a Renewable Energy District, a proposal that could transform large tracts of our county into zones where renewable energy isn't just a possibility but a priority. This isn't a new conversation; it's the next step in an ongoing journey that our county, state, and nation are walking together.
Michigan's relationship with renewable energy has been complex. The transition from traditional energy sources to more sustainable ones has been met with both excitement and skepticism. Projects like the Assembly Solar initiative have demonstrated the economic potential of such endeavors, but they've also sparked heartfelt discussions about land use and community impact.
What's at stake at the upcoming meeting is how we harness the potential for renewable energy to benefit our county. As we consider amendments to our Zoning Ordinance, we must ensure they serve not just our immediate needs but also our long-term aspirations. This is about laying the groundwork for an energy infrastructure that is resilient, sustainable, and forward-thinking.
The Michigan Democratic Party, of which our county party is a part, champions a transition to clean energy. We believe it is essential for environmental health and economic vitality. Our stance isn't about political point-scoring; it's about taking meaningful action to safeguard our environment and create jobs that sustain families and communities.
Our role as a local party is to advocate for transparency and informed public participation. The stories, debates, and discussions we've all heard underscore the need for every voice to be heard in this conversation. Whether you stand with the workers who see a chance for good-paying jobs in renewable energy or with the landowners who cherish the agricultural heritage of our county, your perspective matters.
I encourage you to come to the meeting prepared to listen, learn, and speak. This isn't about choosing between economic growth and environmental protection; it's about finding the balance that ensures both. We're all in this together, and it's only by working together that we'll find solutions that stand the test of time.
Let's make decisions that our children and grandchildren will thank us for. Join me on November 15 at 7:00 P.M. at the Surbeck Building (201 N Shiawassee St, Corunna, MI 48817), and let's chart a course for a brighter, cleaner, and more prosperous Shiawassee County.
In service to our community,
Stephen Schlaack
Chairperson, Shiawassee County Democratic Party
Additional News Stories, Reading, and Context about this issue:
Planners’ tour of renewable energy projects spurs further learning (Nov 2022)
Mid-Michigan township enacts moratorium on solar development (July 2021)
Man launches campaign to prevent new mid-Michigan solar farm (July 2021)
With growing backlash to wind energy, Michigan turns to solar power (Jan 2023)
McCarthy Building Companies completes Michigan's Largest Solar Farm (Apr 2022)
DESRI brings almost 200 MW of solar online in Michigan (Mar 2022)
Opinion | Untested solar and wind policies being forced on rural Michigan (Nov 2023)