Wind farms barred in 15 of 24 townships
Staff writer
Marion County commissioners approved a resolution Monday banning commercial wind energy conversion systems in multiple townships in the county’s unincorporated areas.
Commissioner Mike Beneke cast the lone dissenting vote.
The resolution prohibits commercial and utility-scale wind projects, including turbines, substations, and related infrastructure, in 15 identified townships. The ban applies to new applications and construction but does not restrict small-scale wind systems for personal use.
The resolution stated that commercial wind projects might pose risks related to health, safety and welfare, including noise, shadow flicker, and potential impacts to property values. It directs further review of county regulations governing wind energy.
Beneke’s opposition was rooted in how the decision was structured rather than the concept itself.
“My suggestion was that the township trustees send a letter saying they didn’t want them,” Beneke said. “If anybody sued us for any reason, I think the trustees could be named in the lawsuit as well and take some of the burden off of us as a commission.”
The number of townships included grew from earlier discussions, he said.
Planning and zoning administrator Sharon Omstead also reported that the planning commission was reviewing regulations related to wind energy systems.
Upcoming work sessions also will have potential moratoriums for data centers and battery energy storage systems as officials develop regulations, Omstead said.
During public comment, resident Lorrie Peter raised concerns about large-scale development in rural areas, including data centers.
“A modern artificial intelligence data center can use as much electricity as 50,000 to 100,000 homes,” Peter said. “When this type of demand is added to a rural electrical system, it often requires expensive upgrades.”
Peter also raised concerns about water use, noise, light pollution, and long-term impacts to rural communities.
Most data centers are being located near major internet lines or major population areas. Marion County has neither.
In other business, commissioners approved proposals by facilities director Kevin Moon for continued courthouse restoration work.
The $69,090 projects will include repairs to the deteriorating north basement entry and interior wall, as well as exterior work on the back side of the courthouse, including a chimney.
County administrator Tina Spencer noted the work would not include the clock tower.
Road and bridge employee Doug Kjellin presented several items for consideration. Commissioners approved a resolution in support of a cost-share application for improvements to Nighthawk Rd.
The board also approved a $39,762 bid from CFS Engineering for bridge inspections and accepted a proposal from D.G. Consultants to begin engineering work on a potential low-water crossing at 130th Rd. and Remington Rd. near Catlin Creek.
Weed director Josh Housman presented the county’s 2025 eradication report and 2026 noxious weed management plan, both of which were approved.
“I try to be more respectful to people and their properties,” Housman said. “But if there’s something that needs taken care of, I’ll go out and get it.”
Unpaid treatment costs can be assessed to property taxes , he said, adding that a recent inspection by the Kansas Department of Agriculture found no violations.
Commissioners also approved to move their March 31 meeting to March 30 at 12:30 p.m. to accommodate staff availability.