The fate of a proposed solar farm in the center of Rochester remains up in the air as the town waits for results from an archaeological survey, and residents are concerned about another large-scale project proposed for a Marion Road property.

Renewable Generation, LLC, which is proposing a controversial 1.5-megawatt solar farm on New Bedford Road in the heart of the town, was scheduled to appear before the Planning Board on Tuesday, but once again requested its hearing be delayed until archeological surveys are complete and an agreement can be reached between state historical and natural heritage agencies.

Frustrated candor filled the meeting room as it was noted that advanced notice of the meeting was given to the company. An extension was ultimately granted.

Residents were later dismayed by a Meadowatt, LLC, proposal for a large-scale solar project located at 188-190 Marion Road, which would entail the construction of an access road and a fence around the 3.3-acre property in addition to the installation of the solar panels.

Appearing before the Planning Board for the second time, Meadowatt’s engineer described storm water drainage for the project, the overall appearance of the structure, grass growth and tree removal, and the nature of the fence that would mask the appearance of the solar farm.

Several residents expressed aggravation about the project.

“Don’t say a fence is invisible and then point at something,” resident Morgan Cecil said.

Other Marion Road residents had many questions that could not be answered in the meeting, including some about the project's finances. Planning Board Chair Arnie Johnson repeated several times that the Planning Board’s job is to make sure the proper steps are being taken in the proposal and land preparation for the solar farms. The personal finances of those making the solar farm investment, he explained, are not in the board’s jurisdiction.

Permits are required for the solar project itself, and because it is located in the town's groundwater protection district.

“Another solar company went bankrupt today,” said board member Ben Bailey, noting that within 10 years the landscape of Rochester could change. “In a few years, these solar farms will be junk yards.”

Meeting-goers seemed to share Bailey’s sentiments.

The Planning Board will next meet on May 10. Both solar project proposals will be on the agenda.