LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Rural Land Management Board held its monthly meeting on June 24 to discuss proposals for expanding solar energy regulations and moving forward with farm preservation initiatives. The board, which oversees Lexington's Purchase of Development Rights program, addressed a contentious ordinance that would allow large-scale solar installations on agricultural land for the first time.

Board members received updates on proposed zoning amendments governing solar energy systems after a Solar Work Group met June 9 to present recommendations crafted by four council members and planning staff. The amendments would establish rules for solar installations across different zoning categories, with particular focus on large-scale projects in agricultural zones. The proposal includes a 1 percent cap on large-scale solar in agricultural areas and requires 85 percent vegetative ground cover on solar properties.

Planning Commission staff will hold a public hearing July 9 at 1:30 p.m. in Council Chambers to review the solar amendments. The Planning Commission has 60 days from the council's initial authorization to make recommendations that will return to the Urban County Council for final consideration, likely after council members return from their August recess.

On a separate matter, the board approved moving forward with applications for the Small Farm Conservation Easement Program after related ordinance amendments receive second reading on July 2. The board plans to open applications in July with a September deadline, allowing eligible farm owners in agricultural zones to sell development rights while continuing to farm.

The board also worked to improve application materials for farmers seeking subordination of development rights with lenders. PDR Director Beth Overman reported coordinating with a banking representative to make subordination forms more accessible and banking-friendly, addressing a long-standing barrier to the program's success.

The PDR program has protected over 33,000 acres of Fayette County's prime farmland soils since it began, helping preserve the region's agricultural character as a counterbalance to urban development.

Council Member Hil Boone is hosting a solar information session June 30 at Emmanuel Baptist Church on Winchester Road for residents seeking to learn more about the proposed regulations.