NextEra Energy Transmission Mid-Atlantic is facing resistance in its plan to erect a 6,000-square-foot warehouse at the intersection of County Roads 125 West and 1050 North. The proposal stirred debates during the Porter County Board of Zoning Appeals meeting, following the company’s failed solar project in Morgan Township.
Clarifying Development Purpose
Sean Shortell, Director of Development, clarified misconceptions about the project. He stated the warehouse would not involve power generation or storage of solar or wind energy equipment. It is intended solely for storing spare parts for transmission lines for emergency use. These parts would likely remain unused for extended periods. The building will feature office space and a restroom, but staff presence is expected to be infrequent.
Requests for Zoning Variances
NextEra sought approval for several zoning variances. They requested permission for an eight-foot fence instead of the usual four-foot limit, outdoor material storage, and utilizing well and septic systems over extending local utility lines.
Community Opposes the Warehouse
Nearby residents expressed strong opposition. Larry Wright, a local developer, voiced concerns about the potential impact on future residential developments. Spencer Smith, a local resident, worried about the risk of groundwater contamination while Tim Chelf criticized the aesthetic impact.
Board Discussions and Decisions
The board, led by member Arvid Merkner, questioned the motives behind purchasing the site for $2.4 million solely for a warehouse. Shortell assured that the project was not part of any larger plan and explained the locational constraints due to proximity to the transmission line.
The board approved an eight-foot solid fence, a modification from the initial chain-link proposal. They upheld guidelines limiting expense for extending utility lines, as the $420,000 cost significantly surpassed the $30,000 alternative of well and septic.
Other Board Actions
In other matters, the board postponed a decision on Indiana Steel Carriers’ request for trailer sales zoning in Washington Township due to unresolved zoning issues. Concerns over Victory Christian Academy’s use of septic systems for a planned campus addition were also discussed, with the academy acknowledging neighbors’ grievances.