By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Zach Rateliff

What happens when a 1,000‑acre solar field sits just feet from a family’s well?

On a recent edition of The Zach Rateliff Show, Tracy Jones—a father of six, farmer, and candidate for Little River County judge—shared his community’s worries about a proposed industrial solar project in Oak Hill. The discussion centered on Arkansas’s Act 9 tax‑abatement scheme, the potential financial burden on the county, and the very real threat to local water supplies.

Understanding Act 9 and the Tax‑In‑Lieu Deal

Act 9 allows developers to pay a portion of projected tax revenue—typically 35%—instead of the full amount, in exchange for certain incentives. In this case, the developer, Little Ashdown Solar, a subsidiary of NextEra, would remit a reduced tax payment to the county while retaining ownership of the solar assets. Jones expressed skepticism, noting that the arrangement “doesn’t create jobs” and shifts future maintenance responsibilities to the county.

The county’s quorum court would become the property owner, responsible for upkeep and any damage claims. Jones warned that historically such projects are sold after five years, potentially leaving the county with a new owner and new rules. “If the company disappears, that falls into the hands of the county,” he said, underscoring the risk of inheriting liabilities.

Water Safety Concerns for Rural Residents

Most households in Little River County rely on private wells, with water tables just 12 feet below ground. The proposed solar farm’s proximity—only a few feet from homes and the local church—raised alarms about runoff, sediment, and possible contamination. Jones highlighted that “we don’t have rural pipes out here,” making any water‑quality issue a direct threat to families.

Storms and tornadoes are common in the region, and the solar panels could become hazardous debris. Jones cited YouTube footage of panels shattered by hail, noting that “half a million panels just busted out to pieces.” The potential for a storm to damage the field and create a costly cleanup was a central point of community opposition.

Community Mobilization and Public Input

When a public notice announced a meeting about the tax abatement, residents quickly organized. Jones described how neighbors rallied to learn about the project’s implications, asking basic questions about water impact and liability. Their collective voice was directed at the county’s quorum court, urging officials to reject the deal.

The grassroots effort reflects a broader trend of rural communities demanding transparency and accountability from developers and local governments. As Jones put it, “We’re not in favor of that. It doesn’t create jobs… The negative potential negatives for the little small increase of tax revenue that we’re going to receive.”

Broader Implications for Arkansas Energy Policy

Arkansas’s push for renewable energy projects often leverages incentives like Act 9 to attract out‑of‑state developers. Critics argue that such policies can sideline local concerns, especially in sparsely populated counties where infrastructure and water resources are limited.

Jones’s testimony highlights the tension between state‑level economic development goals and county‑level risk management. If the county assumes ownership and maintenance, taxpayers could face unforeseen expenses, while the promised economic benefits remain uncertain.

Looking Ahead: What Residents Can Expect

The next steps involve the county’s quorum court reviewing the proposal and deciding whether to approve the tax‑in‑lieu arrangement. Community members plan to continue voicing their concerns at public hearings, emphasizing the need for robust indemnification clauses and assurances that water safety will not be compromised.

Jones’s candid remarks underscore a crucial point: “We’re hoping and believing that they will take future maintenance, but historically these things are sold after year five.” The outcome will set a precedent for how Arkansas balances renewable energy development with the protection of its rural populations.

The full episode of The Zach Rateliff Show is available on OBBM Network TV.