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Residents ask Benton County to weigh formal response, joint hearing on Morgan Valley Energy Center
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Summary
Residents urged the Benton County Board to follow up on the Morgan Valley Energy Center proposal, read a letter requesting a formal resident resolution, a joint hearing with Linn County, and further studies. Assistant Attorney Derek Marsh said he is researching approaches, including the possibility of a county ordinance or other steps.
During public comment on April 7, resident Jane Scheer asked the Benton County Board of Supervisors what follow-up had occurred regarding the Morgan Valley Energy Center proposal and read a letter from Jeffry Howington that laid out suggested next steps. Howington’s letter asked the county to adopt a formal resolution expressing concerns, seek a joint public hearing with Linn County that includes Benton County residents, request technical studies, and cooperate in Linn County’s review process.
Assistant Attorney Derek Marsh told the board he has been researching different legal approaches and "played with the idea of a similar ordinance" as one possible avenue for Benton County to consider. Marsh did not present a formal recommendation or ordinance language at the meeting; he described these items as options he is exploring.
Supervisor Volz said he had emailed several parties and had received at least one written expression of opposition so far. No formal board action — such as adopting a resolution or scheduling a joint hearing — was taken at the April 7 meeting; Marsh indicated staff would continue researching appropriate responses and legal options.
Residents who want the board to act urged that any next step include opportunities for Benton County residents to participate in hearings and review processes being led by neighboring jurisdictions. The record does not show any commitment to a specific procedural step or timeline.