WAGONER COUNTY — The Wagoner County commissioners voted to deny the zoning for a $336 million solar farm.
The zoning failed on a 2-1 vote. NextEra Energy Resources shared this statement about the denial.
"While NextEra Energy Resources is disappointed with the decision by the Board of County Commissioners, we remain deeply committed to working with local leaders to develop the Persica Solar project in Wagoner County and bring the benefits of the project to the community, including approximately $31 million dollars in tax payments over the lifetime of the project.”
Wagoner County residents reached out to 2 News after the solar project was originally proposed.
In February, residents shared their concerns with county commissioners and the company behind the project, Next Era.
Those living in the county said their main concerns surround the environmental impact of the proposed solar farm. The stretch of land they want to use is farmland up against homes.
The company said it looks to generate up to 200 megawatts of clean – renewable energy for Wagoner County.
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Juliane Davis, who lives in the area, told us the potential benefits didn’t outweigh what she saw as several negatives.
"Potential water pollution, negative effects to our livestock, our wellbeing with health concerns," said Davis.
NextEra said the county would get $31 million in tax revenue, and the plan would bring 300 jobs.
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