In a crowded session on Tuesday night, the Bellefontaine City Council voted against proposed legislation that would have established zoning regulations for personal and industrial solar use within city limits. The legislation, which included provisions for a potential 200+ acre solar project, did not pass despite support from Councilwoman Deb Baker and Councilmen Nick Davis and Jordan Reser.
The council also unanimously approved a measure to extend municipal services to a property owned by the Duff family, which is set to be annexed into the city. This step aims to integrate the property more effectively into the city’s infrastructure.
Law Director Josh Stolly addressed the impact of the council’s decisions, explaining that the rejection of the solar zoning regulations means the city will need to revisit and revise its approach:
Ordinances and Resolutions Overview:
- 24-61: Passed on first reading, this ordinance eliminates the full-time Security Officer position at Bellefontaine Municipal Court and reclassifies it as Municipal Court Deputy Bailiff.
- 24-62: This ordinance, also passed on first reading, authorizes the creation of two new part-time Deputy Bailiff positions at the court.
- 24-63: Provides for compensation for the Municipal Court Chief Bailiff position and was passed on first reading.
- 24-64: The proposed solar energy regulations were rejected by a 4-3 vote.
- 24-65: A resolution to extend municipal services to the Duff Quarry property, pending its annexation, was adopted unanimously.
- 24-66: Passed on the first reading, this ordinance approves the 2024 replacement pages to the Codified Ordinances of Bellefontaine.
- 24-67: Authorizes the acceptance of real estate adjacent to Bellefontaine Cemetery for municipal purposes, passed on first reading.
The council also addressed several ordinances for second and third readings. Notable among these were measures to establish a school resource officer program and a cooperative curb and sidewalk project, both of which were adopted unanimously.
Several community members voiced their concerns during the meeting. They expressed apprehension about both the implications of the solar regulations and the potential annexation of property on Stockyard Road into the City of Bellefontaine.
The next Bellefontaine City Council meeting is set for Tuesday, September 10th, at 7:30 PM. 
