Lower Nazareth Township residents don't want solar farm at elementary school

A group of Lower Nazareth Township residents has threatened to sue Nazareth Area School Board if plans go forward for a proposed solar field at the Lower Nazareth Elementary School.

The district hopes the solar farm will reduce utility costs. But the Mountain View Road residents, whose backyards border the school property, say it would ruin the park-like setting of the neighborhood.

John Elston, who spoke at Monday night's school board meeting, encouraged the board to find an alternate site, such as the detention pond where the field would not abut anyone’s property. He said residents also want a tree buffer increased from 15 to 75 feet so the residents don't have to look at the solar panels.

Bob Stocklas accused the board of decreasing property values. He said solar panels are designed for commercial, not residential areas.

School Superintendent Victor Lesky said no decision has been made, and he organized a 2-hour meeting July 13 for residents to ask questions and raise concerns about the project. Director Darrell Crook said the project could bring “tremendous savings” to the school district and the residents.

From The Express Times