Planning Commission — Minutes

Approved Minutes Seymour Plan Commission June 4, 2025 The meeting was called to order at 6:35 p.m. at the Seymour Town Hall by Chair Nick Schmock. Members present: Nick Schmock, Joe Kirst, Ken Schick, and Loren Gorell Motion made by Nick Schmock to approve the minutes of the November 13, 2024, meeting. The motion was seconded by Joe Kirst. Motion carried. Topic of Discussion: Protecting Town of Seymour Farmland from Commercial Scale Renewable Energy (Wind/Solar) Discussion Summary: Schick addressed concern regarding Eau Claire County Planning and Development Department to amend zoning definitions. The proposed amendment could expand the legal definition of approved farmland use by changing the terminology from "agricultural" to "agricultural-related." Noting this could allow commercial-scale renewable energy developments, such as wind and solar, in agricultural-zoned areas. The Planning Commission discussed whether a resolution to oppose such changes would apply solely to parcels enrolled in the Farmland Preservation Program (currently 12) or to all agriculturally zoned properties in the Town of Seymour. Commission members expressed support of drafting a resolution that reflects the specific interests of the Town of Seymour, but would also like to requested the following: • An updated copy of the Eau Claire County Zoning Ordinance • The Agricultural Preservation (AP) zoning map specific to the Town of Seymour • Clarification on whether the potential zoning change would affect only AP zoning or all types of agricultural zoning within the town • Guidance on how the three-mile extraterritorial jurisdiction may apply to AP-zoned properties • Clarification on whether Eau Claire County has the authority to override local zoning within the extraterritorial jurisdiction boundary . Next meeting’s date and agenda items: • Next meeting will be on July 16, 2025, at 6:30 p.m. at the Seymour Town Hall Meeting was adjourned at 7:35 p.m. Respectfully submitted Sarah Smith, Deputy Clerk