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Residents press commissioners over Evergy outreach on proposed Osage County solar project
Summary
Public commenters at an Osage County commission meeting criticized outreach for a proposed Evergy solar project, disputed claims about $200–220 million in county 'revenue,' and urged the board to uphold the county's moratorium on solar and wind development.
A public-comment period at the Osage County commissioners meeting on May 27 focused on a proposed low-profile solar power plant that outreach callers described as bringing roughly $200 million in revenue to the county.
Jeanette, calling in from an outreach group, introduced the notice and said the group was sharing information about a "potential new power plant for Osage" and offered a contact number for residents who wanted details. A resident who spoke in person responded that the county already has a comprehensive plan and a moratorium affecting solar and wind projects and said many residents oppose the proposal.
"We have a comprehensive plan against solar and wind in this county. We have a moratorium against solar and wind in this county. We have a ban in this county," the resident said, criticizing last-minute outreach and disputing the characterization of the project's financial benefits. The resident also said an outreach caller had cited "$220 million of taxable revenue," and argued that figure was misleading.
Commissioners acknowledged the comment and said the board's interest is in managing land use through zoning and conditions rather than permitting unrestricted development. "We really want to... choreograph and regulate and zone any type of development," the Chair said, adding that the board's goal is not a "wide open Pandora's box." Commissioner Les said the commission would aim to ensure regulation and co-location options and noted planning and zoning review would apply.
The meeting record shows public concern about both outreach practices and the substance of the proposal. Commissioners did not take formal action on the project at the meeting; public comment closed and the commission proceeded to the agenda.
