York County Board of Zoning Appeals Rethinks Silfab Solar Panel Facility’s Zoning Designation

In a packed and tense meeting at the York County Government Center this Thursday, the Board of Zoning Appeals delivered a verdict that resonated deeply with more than 300 local Fort Mill residents: the decision to classify the proposed Silfab Solar panel manufacturing facility under “Light Industrial” zoning was reversed. This decision is now sent back to the York County Council for further review, reflecting the community’s strong concerns and the complex nature of zoning regulations.

Community Engagement and Concerns

The meeting was a significant demonstration of community engagement, with every available space at the venue filled and residents spilling into overflow rooms. Of the many attendees, over 50 took the opportunity to express their concerns directly to the Board, questioning the initial zoning decision which placed the solar panel manufacturing company in a less restrictive industrial category than some believed was appropriate.

The Core of the Zoning Debate

At the heart of the debate is whether the activities associated with solar panel manufacturing by Silfab Solar should be classified as Light Industrial or Heavy Industrial. The distinction is crucial as it impacts the regulatory and environmental oversight the facility would be subject to. Residents and some board members pointed out the use of chemicals in the manufacturing process that they feared could pose health risks to the community, which includes nearby schools and residential complexes.

Zoning Classification Challenges

York County Zoning Administrator Chair Jeff Blair highlighted the challenges in classifying the Silfab facility, noting, “Often code is not very clear… something isn’t 100% defined and that is the reason this process exists also. ” This lack of specificity in the NAICS nationwide classification system used by county zoning officials often leads to interpretation challenges. Blair stated if county code referred areas of ambiguity to the NAICS this decision would be a “slam-dunk” in a manner that most of the residents attending would not appreciate.

Implications of the Reversal

The unanimous decision to send the issue back to the York County Council underscores a critical look at how industrial activities are categorized and the need for clear, up-to-date zoning definitions that reflect current industrial practices and community safety considerations. This move also represents a victory for local residents who felt that their concerns were initially overlooked in the zoning process.

Looking Forward

As the matter returns to the York County Council, further discussions will likely focus on more detailed evaluations of the manufacturing processes involved and the potential environmental and health impacts. This next step is crucial for ensuring that any industrial development, particularly one involving chemical use, is appropriately situated and regulated to safeguard community health and welfare.

The decision also sets a precedent for how community voices can influence local governance, particularly in matters where public health and land use intersect. As Fort Mill and its residents await further developments, the engagement seen at this meeting serves as a robust reminder of the power and importance of public participation in zoning and planning processes.