DeWitt County has been inundated with solar applications in the last several weeks, which has added a significant workload to the County board. 

At Monday night's DeWitt County Land Use Committee Meeting, Committee Member Pat Ryan shared his concerns with the frequency of the solar hearings that have been taking place as applicants have sought out siting permits. He points to the four hearings that took place over a 15-day period. 

State's Attorney Dan Markwell warned Ryan that if the hearings are not completed in a timely manner, it could open up the County to legal action from applicants. This is due to a 60-day timer that the County has to complete the hearings due to State statutes. 

Joe Witte believes this issue should be left up to State legislators. He adds that they are following the statutes that they are required to, because if they don't, the County could be left vulnerable. 

Buck Carter points out that solar companies are moving quickly to get applications in, to receive the Federal Investment Tax Credit. This would get them a 30% tax credit if construction begins before January 1st, 2033. 

There was no further discussion on the matter, as Carter quickly adjourned the meeting due to the ZBA meeting that was scheduled to follow Land Use.