Perkins County board reviews budget, solar projects and road concerns
The Perkins County Board of Commissioners addressed a wide range of issues during its regular meeting Aug. 18, including public concerns about solar energy projects, road maintenance and preparations for the upcoming fiscal year budget.
Commissioners Steve Tucker and Mark Bottom were present, while Commissioner Darin Robertson was absent. County Attorney Richard Roberts and County Clerk and Budget Preparer James Brueggeman also attended.
Public comments center on solar projects and roads
During the public comment period, several residents voiced opinions on solar energy developments in the county.
Ted Tietjen compared the projects to the early adoption of center pivot irrigation, saying setbacks should be determined between landowners and developers.
Mitzi Gartrell and Leon Pankonin spoke in opposition to a Midwest Electric project southeast of Grainton, with Pankonin questioning whether taxes from solar projects would offset community concerns.
Treasurer Julie Burge briefly discussed the state’s nameplate capacity tax on solar facilities.
Sheriff Jeffrey Miller asked whether allowing solar could open the door for wind energy proposals.
Ron Regier warned that taking farmland out of production could threaten agriculture-related businesses.
Meanwhile, Julie Vak raised concerns about road maintenance near her home.
Roads, law enforcement and county business updates
Sheriff Miller reported on jail inmate numbers, vehicle updates and maintenance of the county’s breath testing equipment.
Highway Superintendent Steve Leimer told commissioners that Vak’s road would be graded that day. He also reviewed grader operator training, wage rates and possible restructuring of road districts.
Brueggeman presented a preliminary report on the Fiscal Year 2025-26 budget, reminding commissioners of upcoming hearings scheduled for Sept. 2 and Sept. 15.
Board actions and agreements
The board approved payroll and claims, with county employee salaries totaling $77,531.30. Major expenses included $38,872.50 to Kidwell, $39,422.70 to Pinnacle Bank and $12,472.55 to American Energy Delivery for the roads department.
Commissioners approved annual inventory statements from multiple county offices and adopted a resolution setting all political subdivision levy requests for 2025-26 at zero.
They also approved an agreement with Trails West CASA, Inc. for child advocacy services, and amended and approved a gravel hauling contract with B & L, operated by Robert Brueggeman.
Looking ahead
Commissioners discussed procedures for conditional use permits and forwarded discussion on restructuring the roads department to the Sept. 2 meeting.
A proposal to purchase real property in Grant was tabled without action.
The meeting adjourned at 10:45 a.m. The next regular meeting is scheduled for Sept. 2.
The Perkins County Courthouse will be closed on Sept. 1 in observance of Labor Day.