During the Sept. 23, 2026, Big Lake Township Board Meeting, Chair Bruce Aubol made a motion to recommend the approval of an Interim Use Permit and Comprehensive Land Use Map Amendment for an expansion of the existing solar project on resident Jim Sanford’s property.  However, the motion failed as none of the other three supervisors who were present seconded it. Supervisor Larry Alfords was absent.
The Proposal
Though the recommendation would not have allowed the proposal to be built, comments from the supervisors will be forwarded to Sherburne Co., which will ultimately decide if the project will move forward.
The project, if approved, will allow Nokomis Energy to build a 34-acre solar farm on an 80-acre parcel, producing five megawatts of power. Vice President Dan Rogers and Senior Project Developer Mike Braun from Nokomis Energy were on hand to answer questions. Braun noted that the project will produce 10,060 megawatt-hours annually and generate $300,000 in tax revenue over a 25-year period that will be split between the county and township, with the township receiving 20% of that revenue.
Owners Request
A letter to the Township from James and Susan Sanford was included in the agenda packet. In that letter, the Sanfords explained how the solar field would help his family retain the farm they purchased in 1976, writing, “As you know, traditional grain farming has become increasingly competitive and less profitable. We’ve continually looked for ways to maintain the viability of our farm while being good stewards of the land and good neighbors. Partnering with Nokomis Energy would provide a sustainable and responsible way to diversify our income while preserving the property’s agricultural value for the future.”
The letter also noted the residential development that began in the 1980’s and 1990’s to the west of their property. “We supported that growth and never opposed it.”
Impact on Residents
The impact on those residents was the topic of much of the discussion. Braun explained that the solar field would be built as far east on the property as possible and that a vegetative screen would separate it from the existing homes in the area.
Supervisor Mark Hedstrom asked why the property where the solar field will be located won’t be surrounded by trees, as required. Braun responded by explaining that the county had changed that requirement and that the land surrounding three sides of the parcel was agricultural.
Supervisor Dean Brentesen asked what would happen in 5-10 years if housing were expanded in that area? Braun responded that it’s hard to predict what will happen over the next 5-10 years, and Rogers added that developers would be able to address any problems through their application process. Brentesen stated that he would still like to see the entire array surrounded by trees.
Aubol wrapped up the discussion by asking for final comments. Hedstrom stated that his stance on solar has never changed. He objects to taking farmland that could be used for future development and using it for solar.
A motion was called to allow the supervisors to submit their comments to the county separately. The motion passed unanimously.
Comment
Comments
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