THETFORD TWP., Mich. (WNEM) – People at a town hall shared their worries about a proposed solar farm project that will take up thousands of acres in Genesee County’s Thetford Township.
It is proposed to go into an area around North Belsay and East Wilson roads and reaches into nearby Forest Township. Residents fear it will negatively affect their properties.
“I’ve spent my whole life building my home,” said Resident LaVerne Morse. “And now, it’s going to be worthless.”
Residents brought questions and concerns to the meeting held on April 20.
“I would be completely surrounded by this,” said Morse. And I’m really concerned about the radiation.”
The proposed Otisville solar project, a 125-megawatt development, covers more than 2,000 acres of land.
“You’re not going to have the same views,” said Resident Joseph Windle. “The same nature experience. Just the country sounds that you would be used to in a place like this.”
For many, the concern is not just size, it is impact, property values, drainage, and losing the rural feel they say defines this community.
“The whole area will be turned into a solar farm,” said Morse. “This is why I live out here. Because I wanted to be away from all this.”
Under Michigan Public Act 233 of 2023, local leaders cannot deny projects that meet State requirements. That is where the tension lies – a local community, trying to have a voice, in a process controlled by the State.
“Who came up with that bill is, you know, shame on them,” said Morse.
Township leaders said that was why the meeting was called – to inform residents, break down what has changed, and make sure their concerns are part of the official record.
“We encourage all of our residents to get on the MPSC and make a public comment regarding our case that stands there,” said Thetford Township Supervisor Rachel Stanke. “It’s never too late to state your opinion.”
Some landowners support the project, but many said they are looking for balance, transparency, and protection for the community.
“Get involved in your local elections and your state elections,” said Windle.
If approved by the State, the project would move forward with operations possibly starting by 2028.
Subscribe to the WNEM TV5 newsletter and receive the latest local news and weather straight to your email every day.
Copyright 2026 WNEM. All rights reserved.

source