April 18th, 2025 by WCBC Radio

During last night’s Allegany County Commissioner’s meeting, residents of Cash Valley showed concern regarding the former Helmstetter farm becoming a solar project.  Greg Donaldson, a resident of the valley for over 30 years, said the 15,000 panels would affect the attraction to Cash Valley and Helmstetter’s Curve…

“The current owner did not take into consideration the impact this would have on tourism and the iconic farm scene that has been enjoyed and photographed by many biking and hiking the Great Allegany Passage trail or riding the scenic railroad train from Cumberland to Frostburg."

Another resident, Sue Mullozzi, mentioned a much larger solar project is being pursued in a former coal mine…

“In today’s Times News, they reported on another company proposing a 300 megawatt solar project on a former coal mine which is a much better solution than a small, 4.9 megawatt project on a sloped green pasture smack dab in the middle of a neighborhood for all to see.”