The application, represented by attorney Adam Costa and consultant Roy Walker from Zero Point Energy, was initially set for a special permit under the town’s zoning bylaw for solar energy systems. The project, proposed to be managed by Ledge Valley Farm, would have included the installation of a solar facility while maintaining the land as pasture for grazing sheep, cattle, and chickens.

During the meeting, Attorney Costa explained the reasons behind the decision to withdraw the application. He highlighted the inefficiency of continuing with the approval process knowing that the project would not proceed in its current form. Costa noted that the applicant had the option to revise the project and resubmit to the Conservation Commission, abandon the project altogether, or file appeals against the commission’s decision. The applicant’s intention to withdraw the application without prejudice was to avoid unnecessary litigation and to allow for the possibility of reevaluating the project’s direction in light of the Conservation Commission’s denial.

The planning board’s approval of the withdrawal without prejudice followed a clarification of the implications by the applicant’s attorney, including the potential consequences of a denial with prejudice, which would impose a two-year wait before refiling. The board’s decision was unanimous, and the members agreed that it was the most efficient course of action. The board acknowledged the routine nature of such withdrawals and aimed to facilitate a smoother process for the applicant should they choose to proceed with a revised project in the future.