Pratt County explores housing assessment and potential solar farm project

In the heart of Pratt County, a meeting unfolded that could shape the future of housing and energy in the region. As the Pratt County Commission gathered on December 16, 2024, discussions centered on pivotal topics, including the conclusion of the facade program and the initiation of a comprehensive housing study.

The facade program, designed to enhance the aesthetic appeal of local buildings, is set to wrap up at the end of the year. This decision aims to conserve resources for future projects, reflecting a strategic shift in the county's priorities. With the program's end, attention turns to a countywide housing assessment, which is expected to kick off in early 2025. This study will evaluate the diverse housing needs across Pratt and its surrounding communities, focusing on various types of housing, including multifamily, moderate-income, and lower-income options.

In another significant development, the commission heard from a company exploring the possibility of establishing a solar farm in Eastern Pratt County. Currently in the exploratory phase, the company is assessing whether the area is suitable for an industrial-strength solar facility that would contribute power back to the Southwest Power Pool. While the project is still in its infancy, it will require navigating local permitting processes and will likely take about two years before any construction can commence.

Additionally, the commission addressed the need to appoint a new member to the Pratt Area Economic Development Corporation (PAEDC) to replace Ruth Ann Barker, whose term is concluding. This appointment is crucial for maintaining momentum in local economic initiatives.

Lastly, updates on the Sawyer gas line situation were shared, indicating progress with the Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) developing a construction request for proposals (RFP). This development is promising, as it aligns with ongoing rate studies necessary for bringing the gas line into service.

As the meeting concluded, the commission left with a sense of purpose, ready to tackle the challenges ahead and foster growth in Pratt County. The decisions made today will undoubtedly influence the community's landscape in the years to come.