Sauk Rapids Temporarily Block Solar Garden Use With The City

SAUK RAPIDS -- Sauk Rapids is putting a ban on solar gardens in the city – at least for the moment.

During tonight’s (Monday) city council meeting, the council unanimously approved a solar moratorium that would block any solar use within city limits.

City Administrator Ross Olson says they have gotten several requests about solar gardens and the city wants to collect more information before moving forward.

Generally, solar gardens need to be located near high capacity power lines and take up a lot of space. Olson says they want to know what regulations are needed and what is the best location for them before they give the green light.

The approved moratorium is for one year and Olson says it could be lifted before that.

Sartell, Cold Spring and St. Joseph have already approved lease agreements with solar garden providers.