FAQ

What is the Public Hearing?

The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) is the regulatory body that manages the permitting process for utility-scale solar projects. As a part of this process, the OPSB hosts a “Local Public Hearing” where community members are allowed up to three minutes to give testimony in support of, or in opposition to, the Grange Solar Grazing Center.

When and where is the Grange Solar Grazing Center Public Hearing?

Monday, March 10th at 5:00 pm with doors opening at 4:00pm

Indian Lake High School
6210 State Route 235 N.
Lewistown, Ohio 43333

Why is it important to testify?

The OPSB is very responsive to community input. It is important that the Grange Solar Grazing Center has a strong showing of support.

How do I testify?

When you enter the Indian Lake High School, signs will point you to the OPSB registration table. You will sign in at the desk. Once the hearing begins, OPSB staff will call the names of speakers in the order that they arrived. We ask that you please arrive at 4:00pm to sign in.

What should I say?

● Explain who you are (name, how long you have lived in the area, family, etc.)

● Explain what you do for a living

● Mention anything that shows you are active in the community

● Briefly explain what the Grange Solar Grazing Solar means to you (benefits to schools, homegrown clean energy, landowner rights, combining sheep and solar, etc.); when in doubt speak from the heart!

Do I really have to say all that?

While it’s better to give a longer explanation on why you support the project, it’s perfectly okay for you to go up there and simply say “My name is XYZ, I live in Logan County, and I support the Grange Solar Grazing Center. Thank you.”

What can I expect when I get to the hearing?

● Depending on turnout, please plan to be there for a couple of hours

● Open Road Renewable staff will be available before and during the hearing to address any questions you may have

● When you testify, you will be sworn in by the “administrative law judge” who will oversee the hearing. You will raise your hand and agree to tell the truth. They will ask you to spell your name, say your address, and ask if you live in the “project area”—the answer is “yes” if you live in the general vicinity of the project.

● After you finish testifying, the court reporter will ask you to leave a copy of any written testimony you brought with you.