As former Richland County Commissioners, we understand the weight of decisions that affect our community’s economic future and the rights of our neighbors.

That’s why we’re deeply concerned about the ban on future renewable energy development that our current County Commissioners passed last summer — and why we’re asking voters to join us in voting “No” on the May 5th referendum.

For years, Richland County took a balanced, common-sense approach to energy development proposals. If a farmer or landowner wanted to lease their property for a solar facility or wind farm, the county reviewed each project individually.

We would hear from neighbors, consider local concerns, and make decisions based on the specific merits of each proposal. That system worked because it respected both community input and private property rights.

The current commissioners threw that approach out the window. Their blanket ban doesn’t just prevent bad projects — it eliminates the possibility of any solar or wind development in 11 of our 18 townships, regardless of whether a project makes sense or has community support.

This isn’t about being “for” or “against” renewable energy. It’s about who gets to make decisions about private property in Richland County.

We’ve always believed that farmers and landowners know their land better than county government does. If a farmer chooses to grow corn, raise cattle, or responsibly lease acreage for solar panels, that’s their decision to make.

County government’s job is to ensure projects meet safety and zoning standards, not to tell property owners they are forbidden from even considering certain uses of their own land.

Some of our farming families might look at renewable energy leases as a way to keep their land in the family and stay financially stable as they age. These aren’t outside corporations forcing projects on unwilling communities.

These are our neighbors exploring options for their own property. County Commissioners shouldn’t be closing that door before anyone even has a chance to knock.

The economic argument for this ban doesn’t hold up either. Our region is seeing unprecedented demand for electricity as manufacturers expand and data centers locate in Ohio. Electricity costs are climbing, and our grid is under strain.

This is exactly the wrong time to tell energy developers that Richland County is closed for business.

We need an “all of the above” energy strategy. Limiting our options doesn’t make our county stronger — it makes us less competitive and less resilient as energy demand continues to grow.

A “No” vote on this referendum returns Richland County to the sensible, case-by-case approach that served us well for years. It means residents will have their voices heard on specific projects.

It means county government will do its job—reviewing proposals, considering community input, and making informed decisions—rather than issuing blanket prohibitions that override property rights.

This referendum gives Richland County voters a choice. On May 5th, we’re voting “No” to protect property rights, preserve local decision-making, and keep our county competitive as energy needs grow.

We hope you’ll join us.

Edward Olson

Former Richland County Commissioner

Mansfield, Ohio

Gary Utt

Former Richland County Commissioner

Mansfield, Ohio