‘We’ll see you in court’: Contentious Meeting over the Building of Large Solar Plant in Fort Mill
A Heated Debate
Fort Mill, S.C. witnessed a heated meeting between government officials and hundreds of residents. The subject of contention was the building of a factory that produces solar panels. Many attendees expressed deep concerns about the potential effects of hazardous chemicals that would be produced and utilized by the factory.
“My kids will be breathing these chemicals day in and day out while they’re trying to get an education. What if they get cancer?” expressed Marissa, a concerned resident of Fort Mill. Concerns were raised by nearly 200 people who fear that the operation of this solar panel company could pose a major threat to their community.
Congressman on the Spot
Congressman Ralph Norman took much of the heat during the meeting as he tried to answer questions amidst the outcry. “I will end the meeting if I hear more shouting. Either walk out, listen or leave…one of the two,” he said. Norman expressed his frustration and urged residents to organize and take action individually.
The Root of the Matter
The center of the conflict is SILFAB Solar, a company that is planning to establish a new plant in the Fort Mill area. Many residents who attended the meeting voiced their dissatisfaction over this prospect.
“None of you have responsibility for the zoning or location of the facility,” argued another attendee. Despite this, the town council, which could effect change, was notably absent from the meeting. According to Congressman Norman, this absence was due to potential pending litigation.
Public Outrage
Frustration was high amongst the attendees because the zoning board declared that this was an erroneous zoning decision. Victoria Herbst voiced her outrage, stating “That’s where the outrage is coming from because it was ruled that was not the right location for what they were trying to do”.
Several residents spoke of feeling unheard and expressed worry for their community. Trisha Morris, another concerned resident, said, “I’m sick about this, I think it’s going to do a terrible thing to this community”. Despite feeling that the process was not followed, residents vowed to continue their fight until a resolution they can accept is reached.
Herbst concluded the meeting with a stern warning to all involved, “We’re not giving up we’re prepared for the long-haul and I’ll see you in court.” SILFAB has been reached out to but has not yet responded.
