Sun and clouds mixed. Warm. High 77F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph..
Mainly clear skies. Low 48F. Winds S at 5 to 10 mph.
Updated: March 19, 2026 @ 7:43 am
Solar panels (Brad Choat photo)
Solar panels (Brad Choat photo)
After no vote was taken in February on a proposed solar farm permit in rural Pontoon Beach, the matter came back before the Madison County Board, Wednesday evening for consideration.
Board Member Denise Wiehardt, who lives in the subdivision right next to the farm field where the solar panels would be placed, said she heard loud and clear from neighbors that they oppose the project. She said their water runoff and other environmental concerns are real.
Her words came after one property owner on nearby Route 162 spoke about how the solar farm would not benefit the community, only the company.
Attorneys for the Arena Libra project maintain they have fully-complied with Illinois law regarding solar, and should be granted a permit.
After discussion, the board voted 16-7 to turn down the request.
This is not the first solar project to be denied in Madison County, and could face litigation.
Also of note Wednesday, the full Madison County Board returned to its main meeting room for the first time since renovations began to the 34-year-old space last November.
Improvements were made for safety, accessibility and functionality.
Officials say the project’s cost came in at $400,000 – much lower than the $1 million budgeted for it.
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