The Land Use Services Department will continue to solicit public input on the future of renewable energy development throughout the County’s unincorporated areas during a special listening session from 2 to 4 p.m. on March 5.
The listening session will begin with an overview of the County’s planning progress and priorities from Planning Director Terri Rahhal, followed by public comments on the Element Framework and Outline.
For the last several months, the San Bernardino County Partnership for Renewable Energy and Conservation (SPARC) has held 10 public meetings and events to encourage people to help Land Use Services develop a Renewable Energy Element Framework for the County’s General Plan. The County seeks to strengthen its policies and regulatory system to manage renewable energy development while protecting our environment, communities, residents and economy.
“Proper planning will allow us to find the balance between development and preservation," James Ramos, chairman of the county board of supervisors, said in a press release. "While we agree that renewable energy sources are both beneficial and necessary, we must determine where those projects fit best within our county."
First District Supervisor Robert A. Lovingood agreed.
"Renewable energy can significantly impact local communities, so these projects need to be carefully located. That's why I encourage residents to share their thoughts and concerns during this process," Lovingood said.
The listening session will be the third round of public exchange on the County General Plan Renewable Energy Element process. Additional public workshops will follow in the spring.
The March 5 listening session will be conducted at:
Covington Chambers
County Government Center, First Floor
385 N. Arrowhead Ave., San Bernardino
During the session, the public can participate via videoconferencing at:
• Jerry Lewis High Desert Government Center
15900 Smoke Tree Street, Hesperia
• Bob Burke Joshua Tree Government Center
63665 Twentynine Palms Highway, Joshua Tree
The Element Framework and Outline can be found online at www.sbcounty.gov/main/renewable.pdf.