Residents Voice Concerns Over Ursa Solar Farm Project

QUINCY, Ill. — Residents from Ursa gathered at a public hearing on Thursday to express their concerns about a proposed solar farm project by Greenkey Solar. About 30 community members attended the meeting held by the Adams County Board.

The project is planned for a 27-acre site just east of Ursa, and it aims to generate up to four megawatts of power. Project Manager Desiree Noisette addressed the board, emphasizing that the solar facility wouldn’t produce noise, smell, or light pollution.

However, the proposal has raised several concerns among local residents, particularly about potential declines in property values. Tim Hightower, a resident and vocal opponent of the project, submitted a petition with approximately 290 signatures from neighbors expressing their opposition.

“Please don’t think of this as a ‘check the box’ application,” Hightower said. “This one is different.”

In response to the residents’ fears, Greenkey Solar brought in real estate appraiser Erin Bowen. Bowen reported that studies from Loyola University and Berkeley National Labs indicate solar farms typically have a negligible impact on nearby property values.

Board member Russ Hinkamper raised doubts regarding the land’s future agricultural viability once solar panels are decommissioned. Noisette assured the board that the project would use pollinator-friendly ground cover, which would enhance soil quality rather than degrade it.

Local residents also worried about health risks associated with solar technology. The Adams County Board will hold a vote on the special use permit for the project on May 13.

“It’s when people come up to me and say, ‘I wouldn’t want that in my backyard,’ that raises a red flag,” Hightower added.