Rock County commissioners unanimously deny AK Investments’ permits for two proposed hog‑finishing sites

Wade D. Hollenbeck, chairman of the Rock County Board of Commissioners, and his fellow commissioners voted unanimously Dec. 17 to deny Conditional Use Permits for two proposed hog‑finishing operations filed by AK Investments LLC.

Faye Smith moved to deny the permit for the first pair of 2,480‑head barns (Location 1); Colby Sybrant seconded the motion and the board voted “all for, none against.” The board repeated the action for the second proposed site (Location 2) and again voted unanimously to deny the permit.

The denials cited multiple zoning provisions and Planning & Zoning findings. The board cited provisions that prohibit confined animal feeding operations in areas subject to 100‑year flooding and language intended to avoid development in wetlands; requirements limiting runoff or drainage from confined feeding areas so waste would not flow beyond property lines; and a standard that such operations not impose an undue cost burden on county roads and bridges. Commissioners noted Planning & Zoning — a nine‑member panel of local residents — voted 8‑0 to recommend denial in both cases.

Commissioners framed the votes as compliance with the county’s land‑use code, listing concerns about flood risk, potential wetland impacts, road and bridge costs and the potential impact on the future use and enjoyment of neighboring properties. The board did not approve an alternate mitigation plan or conditions; the Conditional Use Permits were denied outright.

The decisions close the two applications brought by AK Investments for the locations identified by section, township and range in southern Rock County. There was no motion recorded to appeal or to send the matter back to Planning & Zoning for additional study at this meeting.

The board signed the minutes and moved on to other business; the denial decisions were final for this session and reflected on the Planning & Zoning committee record.