Wapello County supervisors schedule work session after split public comments on renewable energy rules
Summary
The board discussed a proposed renewable energy ordinance and the alternative of a temporary moratorium at its June 2 meeting, heard mixed public comments about data centers, job claims and blade disposal, and set a work session for June 9 to continue drafting policy. No ordinance or moratorium was enacted.
At its June 2 meeting, the Wapello County Board of Supervisors debated whether to pursue a renewable energy ordinance covering wind, solar, battery and data storage or to impose a moratorium while rules are developed. Chair Darren Batterson's motion to set a public hearing failed for lack of a second, and the board agreed to schedule a work session for further discussion on June 9, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at the Wapello Building, 110 E. Main Street.
Why it matters: The decision will guide how the county regulates new large-scale renewable projects and related facilities (including data centers) that proponents say could bring investment while opponents raise concerns about local impacts and waste disposal. The board did not adopt any ordinance or moratorium at the meeting; instead supervisors opted for more study and a dedicated work session.
During public comment and discussion, Marc Roe argued in favor of an ordinance as a tool for economic development and spoke about interest in a data center, saying Ottumwa has "the perfect set up and a lot of job opportunities." Andy Alderson, speaking on behalf of the data center, responded that such facilities "run on a skeleton crew and it's not creating very many jobs," questioning what the community would gain. Tom Lazio voiced support for solar and opposed a moratorium. Denise Brain raised concerns about disposal of wind turbine blades and cited Sweetwater, Texas as an example of large-scale blade disposal. Duane Heisdorffer asked about tax revenue from windmill construction; Supervisor Ziegler and others said Travis Kaster, the assessor, would provide tax information and participate in follow-up meetings.
Sheriff Don Phillips offered to participate as a mediator and suggested that Chair Batterson and Supervisor Ziegler sit down to develop a plan. Board members agreed to a work session on June 9 to continue drafting policy and to review technical and fiscal information, including tax impacts and environmental disposal concerns raised by public commenters.
Next steps: The board will review materials and hear additional input at the June 9 work session; no ordinance or moratorium was adopted on June 2.
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