Blackford County Resident Raises Three Solar Energy Disputes at Commissioner Meeting

From the Blackford County Commissioner Meeting on June 1, 2026

Resident Deb Ryder used public comment time at the June 1 commissioner meeting to raise three unresolved issues involving solar energy projects in the county.

First, Ryder asked about a letter Economic Development Director Warren Brown sent to a solar company regarding fencing issues. Commissioner Lancaster said the letter was sent at the request of the Area Plan Commission office, and Brown confirmed a meeting with the company is scheduled this week.

Second, Ryder presented documents from the 2022 special exception hearing and a letter Lake Trout Solar sent on April 9, 2024, which stated the company had two years to begin construction plus one additional year at the county's discretion. By that timeline, the deadline to begin construction was June 28, 2025. Ryder asked why work continues nearly a year past that date. Lancaster said the county attorney is researching the question. Ryder pressed for why construction is not on hold while the review is pending; Lancaster said they do not have an answer yet.

Third, Ryder said she requested an appeal application from the Area Plan Commission office about a week and a half before the meeting and was told the office would need to consult its attorney before providing it. As of the meeting, she still had not received the application despite a follow-up email. Lancaster said commissioners would discuss the matter with staff and the county attorney.

Source: Meeting transcript — Blackford County - County Commissioner Meeting - June 1, 2026 (timestamps 40:55–45:48)

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.