Board of Supervisors set public hearings for alternative energy

MT. PLEASANT — The Henry County Board of Supervisors scheduled three public hearings to gather community input on zoning changes for alternative energy projects. The decision follows the Planning and Zoning Commission’s recommendation to move forward with the Henry County Watchmen’s proposed ordinance.

“We’re here to set your public hearing dates for the recommendations of the P and Z Commission,” Board of Supervisors Chairperson Marc Linden started things off during the April 3 meeting.

Supervisor Steve Detrick specifically asked the other members of the board to consider hosting one of the three public hearings in the evening to give a better chance for more people to attend and for better coverage of the discussions.

After clearing the scheduling with the Henry County Courtroom, the board set the hearings for:

Tuesday, April 22, at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, April 29, at 9 a.m.

Tuesday, May 6, at 9 a.m.

Supervisors were in agreement that these meeting should be held at a time separate from normal weekly supervisor meetings to “not impose a limit on time or subjects.”

The hearings will allow the public to respond to the proposed ordinance, which appears on the county’s website under Planning and Zoning. The proposal outlines regulations for wind, solar and other alternative energy developments.

The board plans to hold the first reading of the ordinance after completing the three public hearings.

After these meetings Planning and Zoning Administrator Joe Buffington ensured the board that they could hold as many additional meetings as they’d like to discuss among themselves before holding readings for a proposed ordinance.

Board members encouraged Henry County residents to attend and share their views. Those interested in communicating with the Board of Supervisors on the topic can also do so by email or phone.

Comments: AnnaMarie.Kruse@southeastiowaunion.com