ROCKFORD, Ill. (WIFR) – The Winnebago County board unanimously voted against a proposed solar farm near Curran’s Orchard Thursday night.
“It was a slam dunk, and we were hoping for that,” said Owner Pat Curran.
The proposal from Pivot Energy would have brought a 5-megawatt solar farm on 27.58 acres near the longtime orchard.
Curran spent weeks speaking out against the project, arguing the development did not belong next to a business built around bringing families to the countryside.
“It’s a zoning issue and zoning means you’re looking for compatible properties and there wasn’t anything compatible about industrial solar cells with a six-foot fence next to an Agritourism business,” said Curran.
County board members echoed similar concerns before voting.
“Families and kids and grandkids are going out there to enjoy the outdoors. It just wasn’t appropriate. Myself, I have been in favor of solar when it’s an appropriate fit for the neighborhood or at least the location where they are presenting it,” explained Winnebago County board member Dave Tassoni.
Curran says the decision protects not only the orchard, but its future as he prepares to eventually pass the business down to his grandson, Patrick Riofredo, who has gradually started taking on more responsibilities.
“It really is my future and my family’s future. I have two young boys who love coming out and I’d love someday to pass it on to them,” said Riofredo. “I want to carry on my grandpa’s legacy too.”
Curran says the orchard is open during the summer on Fridays from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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