There is no denying the high interest associated with the potential battery storage system that is being proposed for the town of Hanover. At the public hearing last month, it was standing-room only.

For three hours, residents spoke about concerns with few voicing support for the facility that would be located on Stebbins Road near the Silver Creek Central School. Interestingly, however, the mood of the hearing was different from a recent survey.

All of the data from a survey on-site at the recent meeting, coupled with a poll online and correspondence from residents was compiled by the office of the Hanover town clerk. It found, expectedly, that 90% of more than 300 respondents opposed the proposed project. However, approximately 50% of respondents wanted another public meeting on the matter. Of the 50% that did not strongly push for another meeting, only 10% stated they did not want another meeting at all.

Though a date has yet to be scheduled, Town Board members believe another hearing is a proper way to move forward. Supervisor Lou Pelletter will be reaching out to the school as a potential site for the hearing — due to attendance expectations.

There’s no question this is the right move — and town officials deserve credit for keeping an open mind.