Plan Commission Recommends Provisions for Large Solar Energy Systems

The Effingham City Plan Commission Tuesday recommended the City Council make provision for large solar energy systems. The City is negotiating with a firm that would place a solar energy system on some of the 150-acre tract acquired from the Hawickhorst Family Land Trust several months ago. The field would be placed toward the back of the parcel, leaving the acreage along South US 45 for commercial or industrial development.

The Commission also recommended the Council rezone the tract from non-urban to light industrial.

Also Tuesday, the Plan Commission recommended the Council amend the City Code to allow flexible broadband systems. They also recommended a special use permit for such a system off West US 40, south across from Country Club Road. The development would only involve an 8-1/2 foot dish, but is an option for rural residents who don't have cable or internet service.

The Plan Commission also recommended the Council disallow a site plan for a franchise coffee shop known as The Human Bean. The developer wants to locate at 406 North Keller Drive next to Effingham Vet Clinic. City Engineer Luke Thoele said the configuration of the proposed development could lead to bottlenecks for patrons. The consensus of the Commission was that City officials and the vendor should continue talking in hopes of working out a suitable agreement.

Commission members recommended the Council approve a site plan for a building addition to Mette's Cabinet Corner at 3240 South Banker Street. The additions would be to the east and southwest portions of the current building. Bob Mette told the Commission that the project could mean 10 additional jobs at the business.

Commissioners recommended the Council approve a site plan for an 8,230 square foot warehouse building at 201 West Roadway Avenue for The Equity. The warehouse would be located west of the existing Equity building.

The Plan Commission also re-elected its officers for another year; Brian Hayes as chairman, and Dave Storm as vice-chairman.