The Worth County Board of Supervisors held a special meeting on August 27, 2025, to discuss significant concerns regarding a proposed energy project in the area. The meeting featured public comments from local landowners who expressed strong opposition to the project, highlighting issues related to property rights, environmental impact, and community engagement.
The meeting began with a discussion on the proposed energy project, which has raised questions about its proximity to residential areas. One speaker emphasized the importance of maintaining a minimum distance of 1,200 feet from homes for participating landowners, while others noted that non-participating landowners could face setbacks as short as 500 feet if waivers are signed. This discrepancy has led to concerns about the potential impact on local residents.
Julie Koots, a landowner in Worth County, raised multiple issues regarding the proposed settlement, including the lack of transparency in the process and the incorrect maps associated with the settlement. She questioned the economic implications of the project, particularly regarding property taxes and the long-term effects on local agriculture. Koots also criticized the lack of community engagement from the energy company, Invenergy, and expressed concerns about the safety of emergency management infrastructure in relation to the project.
Courtney Morgz, another local resident, voiced her apprehension about the visual and auditory impact of the proposed energy installations on her family's quality of life. She urged the board to prioritize the well-being of residents over the interests of the energy company, emphasizing that the community would remain long after the project is completed.
Mike Thompson, a long-time resident, echoed these sentiments, expressing his opposition to the project and its potential negative effects on local residents. He highlighted the need for the board to consider the voices of those who would be directly impacted by the energy project.
The meeting concluded with a clear indication that the community remains divided on the issue, with many residents calling for more time and discussion before any decisions are made. The board of supervisors is expected to continue addressing these concerns as they move forward with the project discussions.