Invenergy proposes 200 megawatt solar project in Atalissa to county board

The Muscatine County Board convened on March 3, 2025, to discuss various administrative matters and hear from public representatives. The meeting began with a presentation on the Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) and its role in securing federal transportation funding for the region, specifically highlighting the involvement of Muscatine County in Region 9.

Following this, the board moved to approve the payroll claims for February 2025, which passed unanimously after a motion and a second were made. There were no additional comments from the administration office or other county employees during this segment.

Public comments were introduced by Merlo Bartz, a representative from Invenergy, who proposed a 200 megawatt solar project in the Atalissa area. Bartz expressed interest in presenting a formal overview of the project to the board, suggesting either March 24 or March 31 for the presentation, with a preference for the latter date. The board acknowledged the need for written materials to be submitted in advance to facilitate the meeting's agenda.

Bartz also mentioned plans to meet with Dr. Brad Park from economic development, indicating ongoing collaboration with local officials. The discussion included light-hearted exchanges about local attractions, such as the Pearl Button Museum, which Bartz was encouraged to visit during his time in Muscatine County.

The meeting concluded with a note that two closed session items were on the agenda, but due to the absence of County Attorney Jim Berry, who was engaged in a jury trial, the board would not proceed with those discussions.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the board's commitment to community engagement and development, particularly in the realm of renewable energy projects, while also addressing routine administrative functions.