Carbondale Council approves solar permits for Arena Night 1 and 2 Solar LLC

The Carbondale City Council convened on July 8, 2025, to address several key agenda items, primarily focusing on special use permits for solar energy projects within the city.

The meeting began with a motion from Council Member Kilman to adopt a resolution approving a special use permit for Arena Night 2 Solar LLC. This permit would allow the construction, operation, and maintenance of a 3-megawatt solar array located at the terminus of Bain Drive, contingent upon four specific conditions. Council Member Colombo seconded the motion, prompting a discussion among council members and citizens.

During the discussion, resident Don Monti raised a question regarding the recent rezoning of the property in question. He sought clarification on whether the motion should reflect the new agricultural zoning rather than the previously designated Planned Unit Development (PUD). Community Development Manager John Lindsay confirmed that a special use permit is indeed required for utility-grade solar fields in agricultural zones. He explained that the PUD designation would revert back to agricultural zoning since it had not been satisfied, necessitating the special use permit.

After confirming the necessary amendments to the motion, the council proceeded to a roll call vote, which resulted in unanimous approval of the special use permit for Arena Night 2 Solar LLC.

The council then moved on to item 4.4, which involved a resolution to either approve or deny a special use permit for Arena Night 1 Solar LLC. This permit would facilitate the development of a 3.8-megawatt solar array at 1914 West Sycamore Street, also within an agricultural zoning district. The property is owned by Jerry Bain, who plans to lease it to the applicants.

The planning commission had previously conducted a public hearing on June 11, 2025, where they voted 6-0 in favor of recommending approval for the special use permit, subject to specific conditions outlined in the application package.

The meeting concluded with the council's continued commitment to advancing solar energy initiatives in Carbondale, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable energy solutions in the region. Further discussions and decisions regarding these projects are expected in future council meetings.