Observations all along the line - Kimball & the Southern Panhandle First

Nine Wind Turbines Proposed

Kimball County Budget Hearings Scheduled

The first Kimball County Commissioners board meeting of September on Tuesday addressed public hearings, roads, budgets and inventories for the county.

County Zoning Administrator Sheila Newell briefly explained that the Kimball County Planning Commission met and recommended approval for the conditional permit application of Dale Critchfield of Real Western Wings.

Critchfield’s application is looking to expand his controlled shooting area south of Kimball. The commissioners approved the public hearing for 10 a.m. Sept. 21. At that time, they will receive public comments for or against the Conditional Use Permit Application.

Orion Renewable Energy Group’s director of development, Michael Kurnik, addressed the commissioners about the proposed wind project in northern Kimball County and southern Banner County. Preliminary reports indicate that nine wind turbines could be located in Kimball County. By October, they anticipate a public comment period and approval by January 2022.

Due to the recent rains, county highway superintendent Randy Bymer reported to the commissioners that his department is blading the roads.

The road department has fixed some blowouts on roads 29 and 48. In addition, they have cleaned up around bridges. On Tuesday, Bymer reported that graveling the Air Force roads have begun in Banner County and will be moving to Kimball County

Jon Heidemann has been planning the Antelope Stampede Gravel Ride for two years, and it will finally happen on Sept. 18. Heidemann explained the start, course, and finish to the commissioners.

The county has consigned three vehicles to Big Iron, and the sale of the items should be concluded by Sept. 29.

The commissioners approved and authorized the chairman’s signature on an deputy training agreement between Dean DuVall Jr., who is a deputy candidate, and the Kimball County Sheriff’s Office. No date has been secured for entry into the academy.

The commissioners also reviewed inventory statements for all of the county owned items, including real estate and property.

A public hearing for the 2021/2022 county budget is scheduled for 9:15 a.m. Sept. 14, and a special commissioners meeting is scheduled immediately following the budget hearing.