Community Assessment

Located in the northeastern part of Texas, just to the east of Dallas, Kaufman and Hunt counties borders each other, with Hunt to the north and Kaufman to the south. Hunt County has a population of 103,394, and is home to a few notable places including Lake Tawakoni and Texas A&M University-Commerce. Kaufman County has a population of 157,768 and is the second fastest growing county in Texas. While both counties are in close proximity to Dallas, the "big city" has not made much of a dent in the residents and decision makers of the county.

Texas has no systematic state-wide siting requirements for solar array developments. Siting rules are largely left to counties, towns, municipalities, and/or cities in which a proposed solar development will reside. There is no zoning in the unincorporated counties. Applications/requests for tax abatement on economic development require a public hearing with a 30-day notice of consideration issued by County Commissioners Court.

Because County Commissioners Court for each county will be making the decision on tax abatements, good relationships with them are important to get the tax abatement we need to make the project feasible. We will also want to reach out to other influential members of each, like the Judge that sits on each of the courts, economic development bodies and the closest Chambers of Commerce. Building relationships early will allow us to get an idea about the temperature of the Commissioners, as well as foster introductions. Lastly, we'll keep on eye on any other potential developments in the area, as well as keep our ear to the ground to flag any descent in the area early on.