Commissioners hire Glenn Krebs to guide wind project legal processes in Seward County

During the Seward County Commission meeting on June 16, 2025, significant discussions centered around the potential hiring of attorney Glenn Kerbs to assist with legal matters related to wind energy projects in the county. The meeting began with the approval of an amended agenda, which included a presentation by Kerbs regarding his experience and the services he could provide to the commission.

Kerbs, who has been practicing law in Dodge City since 1979 and has extensive experience with wind and solar projects, outlined the benefits of having specific regulations in place for such developments. He emphasized that Ford County, where he serves as county counselor, has successfully implemented regulations that address both wind and solar energy projects, which have proven beneficial in negotiating agreements with developers. These agreements typically include provisions for county contributions, school donations, road use maintenance, and decommissioning plans.

The commission expressed interest in understanding the financial implications of wind projects, including potential revenue for the county and school districts. Kerbs noted that while initial community pushback was anticipated, many residents have come to recognize the financial benefits these projects can bring. He highlighted the importance of having robust road maintenance agreements due to the heavy equipment involved in wind project construction.

Concerns were raised regarding the decommissioning of wind turbines, particularly the financial security required to ensure that funds are available for dismantling the structures once they are no longer operational. Kerbs explained that while decommissioning funds are typically not secured until 10 to 15 years into a project, it is crucial for counties to have clear agreements in place to address these future costs.

The commission debated the timing of hiring Kerbs, with some members suggesting it might be premature given that planning and zoning discussions had not yet occurred. However, others argued that securing expert legal representation early in the process would be beneficial for navigating the complexities of wind energy regulations.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the county's proactive approach to managing wind energy development, with a focus on establishing clear regulations and agreements to protect community interests. The commission plans to further explore the possibility of hiring Kerbs while considering other legal options to ensure they make informed decisions moving forward.