Commissioners approve one‑year moratorium on windfarm projects in Jay County

The Jay County Commissioners unanimously approved Ordinance 2025‑13 on July 21, 2025, establishing a moratorium of up to one year on windfarm projects in the county.

The moratorium follows a recommendation from the Jay County Plan Commission intended to give staff time to revise the county's windfarm ordinance, specifically setback and decommissioning provisions. Jay‑Portland Building & Planning Director John Hemmelgarn told commissioners the department expects to present draft ordinance language to the Plan Commission in August and that revisions could be completed or in place by the end of the year, allowing the moratorium to end earlier than one year.

Representatives from RWE opposed the moratorium during the public hearing. Jason Winik, development manager for RWE, said the company believes the county already "has a strong ordinance in place with high setbacks for adjoining landowners" and that RWE seeks to be a "good partner with the county." Jeffrey Jones, also identified as an RWE development manager, highlighted economic benefits, saying the project would include "340 jobs during construction with 10 local jobs" and contribute donations to schools and libraries. Land agent John Myron estimated roughly "$500 million in investments to the county." Resident Ed Nixon urged the commissioners against creating delays by forming committees and studies, saying the moratorium would give the impression the county was keeping developers out.

Commissioner Duane Monroe moved to approve the ordinance; Commissioner Doug Horn seconded and the motion passed by unanimous vote. County Attorney Wes Schemenaur advised that any change to the Plan Commission recommendation would require resubmission and a 45‑day review period.

The ordinance gives staff time to rewrite specific ordinance language; Hemmelgarn said his office will prioritize the wind ordinance if the moratorium is in effect.