Frequently asked questions regarding the Clearway Energy solar farm coming to Bates county

The following is taken from the Clearway Swan Energy project web page and provides some answers to questions asked during the Bates County Commission meeting this week

Who is Clearway Energy?

Clearway is one of the Top 5 largest renewable energy companies in the United States. We are creating clean energy jobs, investing in communities where we work and live, and producing domestic, reliable and affordable power. Our fleet includes 13 GW of natural gas, solar, wind and energy storage assets across 27 states - enough to power 2 million homes. Clearway Energy Group is headquartered in San Francisco with offices in Denver, Houston, Phoenix, Princeton, and San Diego. For more information, visit clearwayenergygroup.com.

What is being built?

The Swan Energy Center is a 650-megawatt solar farm–which will generate the equivalent electricity to power 200,000 average homes.. This will include solar panels, an operations and maintenance building for our full-time staff, and a substation.

While we are aware of rumors that a data center will be built with the project, those claims are flase. There are no plans for a data center at Swan.

Where is the power going?

The energy generated by the Swan Energy Center will be delivered into the existing local transmission system, helping meet both local load and growing electricity demand across the region.

The project has a signed “power purchase agreement” with a tech company. This is a financial contract that settles cost and renewable energy credits but does not physically deliver power to any facility. The project instead will push electricity into the local Evergy grid for the benefit of all.

A helpful way to think about it is like water flowing through a pipe—solar energy enters the ‘pipe’ and blends with electricity from other sources. While some energy may be designated for specific customers, ultimately, anyone who draws power from the grid receives a mix from various generation sources.

Where will the equipment come from?

Domestic solar manufacturing has grown exponentially in the United States within the last few years, driven by a national push to on-shore American energy supply chains. Clearway partners with major American suppliers to source solar panels, racking systems and other materials for our sites, in compliance with current trade laws. At the Swan Energy center we will use the following equipment:

-Majority of solar panels from American manufacturer First Solar
-Additional solar panels from JA Solar, manufactured in Vietnam
-Tracking system from American manufacturer NextPower

Who is paying for the project?

Clearway Energy solar farms are entirely privately funded, bringing new investment into the communities where they are located.

No tax dollars go into building Clearway energy projects. Instead, the community gains new revenue through any local property, sales, or income taxes that the projects pay. This grows the budget for schools, first responders and other public services without increasing taxes for residents.

Do solar farms impact nearby property values?

There is no solid evidence that solar lowers nearby property values. In fact, a 2024 study from Loyola University, which assessed 70 utility-scale solar projects in the Midwest, found no consistent negative impact, and sometimes modest increases in property value.

The Swan Energy Center will be built to minimize any visual or noise impact. It creates no traffic, no odors, no light or noise pollution and no industrial runoff.

Additionally, the millions in new tax revenue brought to the county will be used to improve public services like schools and roads, helping make Bates County even more attractive for homebuyers.

How much noise will the solar farm produce?

Once the project is operating, the project will produce minimal noise. Solar panels create no noise at all. Inverters and transformers typically have a low hum like an HVAC system, but can only be heard close to the equipment and usually not beyond the fence line. If a project is a tracking system, then the panels and racking will move throughout the day, but again the amount of noise produced is minimal and typically not heard by surrounding areas.

 Do solar panels produce a glare?

Because solar panels are designed to absorb light and not reflect it and are typically coated with anti-reflective materials, they reflect roughly 2-3% of light hitting their surface. Studies indicate that solar panels share similar reflective qualities as a body of water and do not inherently introduce risk to transportation, aviation, or the casual observer.

What is the construction timeline for the Swan Energy Center?

The construction team will mobilize at the end of June 2026, and construction is scheduled to start in July. Construction is projected to continue until mid-year 2028.

There will be 450-500 workers on site from early 2027 to spring 2028. Our construction contractor, Blattner, will prioritize local hiring to the extent possible. Several long-term technician positions will be available once the project comes online.

What measures are being taken to prevent erosion during construction?

Several measures are being taken to prevent and address erosion:

-Third-party civil engineers have conducted a hydrology study to ensure there are no erosion issues expected on the site.
-Clearway’s construction contractor will file a Storm water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, and will obtain a Permit for Discharges of Storm water from Construction Activities (Land Disturbance Permit). Clearway and our contractor are legally required to follow permit conditions and SWPPP details to protect water quality, such as installing silt fencing and using waddles upslope of water features, and best management practices to ensure stabilization and restoration.
-We have contracted with some of our land leasing partners to plant cover crops to stabilize the ground before equipment arrives.

What measure are being taken to reduce dust during construction?

Water trucks will be used to keep dust down on dirt roads during construction activities.

Will there be any road closures during construction? Is there a road agreement?

There are no road closures expected at this time. If any limited closures prove necessary, they will be near the substation for delivery of large components. Most deliveries will be made by 18-wheelers, with flaggers used for safety instead of closing roads.

Yes, a road use agreement will be established with Bates County to ensure proper coordination and minimize impacts on local roads during construction. Any public roads used during construction will be fully repaired and restored — paid for by Swan Energy Center, not taxpayers.

How does Clearway site projects responsibly?

Clearway strives to minimize potential impacts when siting projects by evaluating existing site conditions, land use restrictions, and state and federal databases and geographic information system (GIS) resources to look for protected species and habitat. Once a project site is selected, we conduct biological, cultural, and wetland resource studies to further understand the specific site conditions. The information gathered from environmental surveys is used to inform our site design so that our projects can avoid impacting sensitive resources to the extent practicable.

What environmental studies have been conducted for the project?

Clearway has performed numerous environmental studies overthe past few years at the project area to characterize site conditions and inform project design to avoid and minimize impacts to natural resources as much as possible. Completed studies include: Critical Issues Analysis, Wetlandand Waterway Delineation, raptor and migratory bird nest surveys, habitat qualityassessments, bat mist net and acoustic surveys, Phase I Environmental SiteAssessment, cultural resource assessments, and geotechnical and hydrology studies.

How will soil be managed?

The reclamation plan for the historic mining operation on Sterling Ranch property required at least 8 inches of topsoil and 8 inches of subsoil be restored with clean backfill; this was confirmed via soil pits collected on March 4, 1996.

Soil disturbance and grading will be minimized as much as possible for construction activities. In general, excavated soils will remain on site and be backfilled or evenly distributed across the project area. Best management practices will be used to manage and prevent sediment and stormwater runoff into nearby wetlands and aquatic resources, such as dust control, diversion berms and silt fencing. Project activities will follow a Spill Prevention, Control, Containment and Countermeasures (SPCC) Plan and any observed contaminated soils will be handled properly and disposed of according to regulatory requirements.

Are solar farms at risk of fire grass fires, and how are they managed?

Solar farm operators implement several safety measures to minimize fire risk, such as regularly mowing vegetation to prevent excess dry grass build up and maintaining clear access for emergency vehicles. In addition, equipment is designed to prevent electrical sparks, and strict protocols are in place to monitor and respond to any fire hazards promptly. These practices help ensure that the risk of grass fires is low and that the site remains safe for the surrounding community.

How do solar farms handle hail and extreme weather events?

Solar panels are engineered to withstand severe weather conditions, including hailstorms and high winds. They are constructed using tough, tempered glass similar to that used in hurricane-proof windows and are rigorously tested to endure impacts from hail up to certain sizes and speeds.

When severe weather is forecasted, the mounting system for the panels automatically tilts the panels to a specific angle that minimizes the impact and potential damage from hailstones. By positioning the panels more vertically, hail is less likely to strike the glass surface directly, helping to safeguard the equipment and extend its lifespan. This automated response is part of the solar farm's extreme weather management protocol, ensuring that the panels remain resilient and operational even during harsh conditions. Regular inspections and maintenance further help identify and address any damage promptly, keeping the facility safe and operational.

Why do farmers put solar on their land?

Our partnering landowners are electing to temporarily rest their fields, completely voluntarily, as is their right. These leases bring in stable income every year, no matter the weather or crop prices. They can make a huge difference for farmers wanting to keep their farm in the family, protecting it from permanent forms of development. Learn more about leasing land with Clearway.

Do solar farms affect birds or other wildlife?

Clearway plans to plant native grasses and floral resources at the Swan Energy Center to help support breeding and foraging of pollinator species, like the monarch butterfly. As the site ismaintained during operation for 30+ years, the natural vegetation will helpimprove soil drainage and health, while creating a stable habitat for insects and small animals.

In addition, migratory bird nest surveys will be conducted prior to construction activities during the breeding season, to ensure active nests aren’t disturbed. Studies have shown solar farms can increase biodiversity on previously disturbed land in just a few years with the use of pollinator-friendly seed mixes, like the one planned for Swan.

Do solar farms release pollution into the land or water?

Solar panels are designed to be safe and durable for the long-term, made with the same kind of tempered glass found in hurricane-proof windows. Like your cellphone, they are designed to crack and not shatter. They also don’t contain fluids that can leak or pollute the soil or water, even if badly cracked, and no part of the panel is buried underground.

Small amounts of conductive metals are in solid form are either chemically bonded together or encased in tempered glass and plastic to prevent exposure to the environment. Clearway currently requires that all solar panels we procure undergo EPA Toxicity Characteristics Leaching Procedure (TCLP) testing to ensure no toxic leaching can occur, even if heavily damaged.

Learn more here: ACP_Solar-Panels_are_Safe-for-Your-Community_FactSheet.pdf

What happens at the end of the solar project life?

At the end of the project’s life, Clearway is required to remove all equipment and restore the site to its prior condition. We reuse or recycle as much of our equipment as possible, working with solar recyclers across the U.S. to conserve materials like glass and aluminum.

Clearway will sign a decommissioning agreement with Bates County and have plans in place to return the land to its original state at the end of the project’s life. This agreement requires us to abide by certain clean up and decommissioning procedures. The process includes safely disposing of or recycling materials such as solar panels and concrete, as well as restoring the land to its natural state by planting native vegetation.

Can solar panels be recycled?

Solar panel recycling is growing fast. Glass, aluminum, and silicon—the primary components of a panel-- can all be recovered. Clearway commits to recycling all solar panels used at this project.

Learn more here: Solar farm removal & recycling fact sheet

Will Clearway sell the Swan Energy Center after construction?

As a leading American renewable energy company, Clearway is a long-term owner and operator of our energy projects across the United States. The Swan Energy Center will join our 13GW operating fleet.

We have no plans to sell the project after construction. These projects are built for lasting performance and responsible ownership, with operations managed by permanent Clearway employees based locally in the community.

What happens if Clearway goes out of business?

Our projects are financed by large banks in the form oflenders and tax equity providers. While it is highly unlikely, if Clearway wereto declare bankruptcy, the bank would step in and be compelled to hire anotheroperator for the project in order to continue realizing the full value of theasset that they invested in. 

     

#MidAmericaLive

Butler City Council meeting news

Butler City Council November 15, 2011

In Butler City Council news this week, a kink in the plan for the Solar Farm at the Butler Industrial Park. Word has come that the proposed project has been put on hold until the company can secure new financial backers, and when the sale value of the solar renewable energy credits improve here in the state of Missouri.

The notice said they will continue their efforts to restart the project as quickly as possible and they asked for the City and MoPEP to work on additional courses of action that would help to get the project moving ahead.

Solar farms in Bates County: Some questions answered

It became apparent during meetings this past Wednesday at the Bates County Commissioner's office there are a lot of questions to be answered and work to be done regarding solar farms coming to Bates County

It must first be pointed out that Bates County is not zoned against solar farms. For the record, the same for wind turbines- however, there's no need to worry about the turbines, there's a very slim chance Missouri may ever see any new wind farms due to current legislation and federal monies drying up to support them.

But by contrast, solar farms (large arrays of solar panels) are popping up in Missouri as quickly as possible due to looming Missouri Senate Bill 849 that could halt future projects. So logically, the rush is on to install as many as possible so they will fall under Grandfather status.

On top of it all, Bates County offers something rather unique as solar farms need a hefty connection to the power grid and Bates County offers not one, but two prime locations: on the west side with connection near the La Cygne power plant and on the east side near the former Montrose power plant. This rare combination has put our county high on the 'wish list' for any type of alternation power generation, primarily including solar.

For now we'll look at the west side of the county as the Clearway Energy 650 megawatt solar farm project just south of Amsterdam is supposed to begin construction late this Summer. The project is coming much to the dismay of some however, all it takes is an agreement between the company and the landowner. Neither of which are obligated to notify the community outside of working with the county commission regarding right-of-ways and agreements regarding roads.

It is however, in the best interest of the solar company to work with the community to sign a Chapter 100 bond agreement that would bring some type of financial benefit locally. We'll discuss that agreement in detail shortly but it appears, based on feedback from citizens present during Wednesday's meetings, there are unanswered questions to be addressed first and Barry Matchett, Head of External Affairs for this region representing Clearway Energy was on hand to answer those which included:

What about runoff and erosion?

Does the ground get contaminated if the panels break?

Do solar panel fires pose a unique threat?

Has Clearway procured all necessary permits?

What about negative impact on adjacent property values?

Matchett answered that first four questions with what appeared to be satisfactory responses but the property values discussion was rather lengthy. Nearby landowner Chad Wiley revealed documentation indicating that solar farms do indeed have a long term impact however Matchett begged to differ. His response was that while a solar farm may have some negative impact early on, it will improve in short order as those nearby get used to the installation being part of the landscape over time. 

He also said many steps are taken to help the farm 'blend in' by adding berms with cedar trees to reduce overall visibility of the panels, among other things. 

As those questions were addressed, the focal point of the discussion wound down to: What's in it for our community? Our schools? Our roads? Townships? Other benefits? 

All of which lead back to the Chapter 100 discussion.

In short, a Chapter 100 contract will insure that some tax monies will stay local and can be fed into schools, infrastructure or whatever is designated in the contract; and that very contract is under a time crunch to be completed, as according to Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, it needs to happen in 30 days or less.

Earlier, Wheatley did provide Mid America Live with his initial 'wish list' of those to get compensation from the Clearway Solar farm that included fire gear, sewer improvements and a storm siren for both cities of Amsterdam and Amoret. However, it appears that list is likely to get much longer in coming days as local schools are high in priority too.

In the end, it stands to reason that Clearway likely has a predetermined amount they will agree to and now it's up to the commission, with input from citizens, to decide where it will go. There will be a town hall type 'meet and greet' with Clearway Energy representatives to be held April 27th, 6:30 pm at the Miami R-1 high school gymnasium and the public is highly encouraged to attend as noted below.

Editor's note- Additional details regarding the Wednesday commission meeting will be revealed in the upcoming weekly report from the county clerk's office. More information is forthcoming from Mid America Live regarding other solar projects as well as answers to frequently asked questions regarding the Clearway project.

 

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Excitement builds as solar farm project heats up

With groundbreaking just a few weeks away, a long awaited solar power project to be located at the Butler Industrial Park is ready to become reality. In last week's city council meeting, final details were hashed out making it official so work can begin of converting a now bare 12 acre field into a green energy power station.

 

Coming soon- panels similiar to these will dominate a 12 acre
spread in the Butler Industrial Park producing quiet,
clean electrical energy

It seems only appropriate that Butler, dubbed 'The Electric City" for being the first city west of the Mississippi to have electric lights in 1881, to receive the green light for a solar farm project- which has been a hot topic at city council meetings  and coffee shop chatter for quite some time.


MC Power Inc. of Lee's Summit is gearing up for installation of around 12,000 sun gobbling solar panels capable of producing 3 megawatts of power that can be put on the grid for surplus sale and local consumption as well. In fact, the city of Butler can use as much as 12 megawatts of power during peak times and typically fires up the Mill street power plant (a costly proposition) when absolutely needed. The solar farm will certainly help fill such needs in a cleaner, more efficient manner offsetting costs of running the Mill street plant.

It is noted that the solar farm, to be completed by Fall, will be quite visible from adjacent roadways, as the projected $14 million dollar project is the biggest around- you'll have to go to Chicago to see one close to the same size.

In the meantime, you can visit the MC Power website to learn more http://www.mcpower.com. More information regarding ground breaking and construction timeline details will be published as they become available.

GROUNDBREAKING MAY 21ST SOLAR POWER PLANT

After nearly two years of planning, design and securing the best possible support team, MC Power Companies, Inc is pleased to announce that construction on the “Butler Solar Power Farm” will commence this spring with the “ground breaking” set for May 21. Full operation of the Solar Farm will be reached before the end of 2013. All of the power generated will be consumed by the citizens and businesses of Butler, Missouri.

At slightly over 3 Megawatts, the Butler Solar Farm will be one of the largest solar power plants in the five state region. Like many municipalities in Missouri, Butler has long owned its electric utility and is a member of the Missouri Joint Municipal Electric Utility Commission (MJMEUC) which is a member of the Missouri Public Utility Alliance (MPUA). MPUA, MJMEUC, the City of Butler and MC Power have worked through thousands of complex details to bring this impressive renewable energy production facility to west central Missouri.

With solar panels produced by aleo solar North America, Inc. and state-of-the-art components to convert the energy to match the current and voltage on the Butler power grid, the citizens of Butler will enjoy reduced power production costs and low maintenance costs for at least 25 years. Great Western Bank, another key member of the team, brought its excellent prior experience with solar power projects to help make this project successful. All members of the Project Team have collaborated to bring this innovative project that will control energy cost, increase employment and help the environment through clean energy production to Butler, Missouri.

“MC Power Companies would like to thank the Butler City Council and City Administrator, MJMUEC, MPUA, Great Western Bank, aleo solar, Gibbons Drake & Scott, and everyone who helped bring this exciting project into reality,” said Tony Ross, CEO.

Butler, known as the “electric city” was the first city west of the Mississippi to have electric service. This project brings solar technology to the oldest, continuously operated, municipal utility in the United States.

Courtesy of FM. 92.1

Viability of solar farm project being discussed

BUTLER CITY COUNCL MEETING-JAN 17, 2012

In Butler City Council news, the Council feels it's time to update its agreement with United Telephone, seeing as how the present one is 45 years old, and has been charging the phone company only two dollars per pole for it to lease space here in town.
And besides, it's not even "United" anymore...the company is now "CenturyLink."

That company has indicated it's willing to go to eight dollars per pole, and feels all is necessary between them and Butler, would be an amendment. However, the Council feels a new agreement is in order, so City Administrator Mark Arbuthnot and the city attorney will be holding further discussions. It appears that this can be settled without much trouble.

BUTLER CITY COUNCIL NEWS

In Butler City Council news…Butler has received over 87 thousand dollars, resulting from a nationwide settlement of two class action lawsuits involving atrazine that has been found in water at over a thousand water providers all over the U.S. This comes from millions of pounds of atrazine that’s sprayed on corn and other row crops each year, which runs off into rivers and streams that supply drinking water to community water systems like ours.

The money will help reimburse water systems for the expense of removing atrazine from drinking water in those cities. The money can be used however the cities want to use it. City Administrator Mark Ar-buth-not says Butler will be put on reserve for future replacement of water filters at the water plant. Of course, the atrazine has always been filtered out of our drinking water. The City didn’t want for a reimbursement to take care of the problem!

In other Butler Council news, there has been more discussion on the new electric transmission line that will go out into the West Butler area. It will be about one-point-two miles of power line, running north from Butler’s power plant, then west through the industrial park, then crossing over I-49 (highway 71) and will intersect a KAMO line, over to the west side. It’s not an overnight thing, however…the Council is still waiting for information from the engineers…we’ll have more later on that.

And the Butler City Council is still having meetings concerning the city budget, with the new fiscal year coming up in April. Budgets are important when you’re talking millions of dollars, so our council doesn’t take this lightly. Meanwhile, we never hear anything from Washington on a budget for the nation, and we’re talking trillions of our taxpayer dollars.

Action continues toward Butler’s Solar Farm. It will be on a 12-point-four acre tract of land, located west of the spec building property. More on that as studies continue.

The state of Missouri is wanting a one cent general sales tax, to provide fro road improvements. This is a state-wide thing and would be voted on by Missouri citizens. They’d like for this to be done by 2015. We’ll keep you posted.

An agreement has been reached between Butler and the MC Company concerning  the Solar Farm…

And the Butler City Council passed a resolution for sale of city property to MC Power for that Solar Farm.

And that’s the latest from the Butler Council. It meets each first and Third,  Tuesday at seven p.m. at City Hall. The public is welcome to attend,  but anyone wishing to speak on a subject should advise City Hall, so it can be put on the agenda.

Courtesy of FM 92

Company seeks acreage in Bates county for solar venture

A solar farm similar to this one located near Butler is proposed just south of Amsterdam that would extend west to state line and will cover approximately 1000 acres.

On September 20th, Fiona Bagwell with associates John Felitto and Allen Anderson representing NextEra Energy met with the Bates County Commission to discuss moving forward with a proposed solar energy project in western Bates County. 

According to Bagwell, the scope of the project includes the use of solar panels, not windmills, similar to the solar farm located on the northwest corner of Butler and would encompass something in the neighborhood of 1,000 acres located directly south of Amsterdam and west to state line. 

A similar project is being proposed in Linn county Kansas, all part of a plan to locally provide electricity upon the planned shutdown of the coal fired LaCygne power plant within the next five years (a 50 year project that began in 1972). 

At this juncture, NextEra and the commission are hammering out details regarding fencing, road access and taxes with more details forthcoming.

GROUNDBREAKING CEREMONY TUESDAY MAY 21ST

Mayor Don Malan put the shovel (Tuesday) in the ground in the 
groundbreaking ceremony for Butler’s coming Solar Farm.The Solar plant…to be one of the largest in Missouri…will be west of Enterprise Road in Butler’s Industrial Park. And it will be impressive from the start, covering 12 ½ acres with solar panels.

Loren Williamson, Senior Vice-president of Project Development for MC 
Power Companies, opened the activity with a welcome to the sizable 
group, which included the Butler City Council along with the mayor and 
other city personnel. Williamson said this plant, which will get its 
power from the sun, will provide its power to Butler, represents 41 
hundred horsepower and will be comprised of 12-thousand, eight hundred, ninety-two solar panels. It will have 30 miles of wiring and the area will be fenced.

Mayor Malan followed Williamson in welcoming those present and said he was excited over the project. He put the ceremonial shovel in the ground at 11:22, and said the spade will have a place in City Hall. Another MC Power official, noting that Butler is the “Electric City,” having been the first west of the Mississippi with its own power plant, said, “The sun always shines on Butler.”

Work is expected to be actually started on the Solar Farm within the 
next two to four weeks.



Courtesy of FM. 92.1

Weekly meeting reports from the Bates County Commission

 

March 27 The Bates County Commission met with the Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

The Group Guardians of the Children came in asking to place a temporary memorial for child abuse awareness. April is Child abuse awareness month. They will install it and maintain it. As well as remove it in May. This display will have 63 pinwheels. One for each child that passed in 2021. Jim states that the courthouse lawn might not be the place for it. He is concerned with causing any prejudice from any trials at the courthouse. He recommended placing it on the parking lot of the Administration building. Corner of Delaware and Ft. Scott. It was also mentioned to check with White Oak Station to see if they would allow it. Ken made the motion to allow the Child Abuse memorial placed in the Administration lot. If they do not get permission to do it elsewhere. Trent seconded the motion. All votes yes. No opposition. Motion carried.

March 29 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Approved bills. 

The Commission met with Jim Platt, Danyelle Baker, Carl Bettels, Jami Page, Susie Smalley, Lynn Bennett, Daniel Stewart and Brenda Doody to discuss IT services.  The Commission will be putting out a bid for computer and network services.  The bid will exclude the Sheriff’s Office and the courts.  Anyone who wants to bid will be required to take an inventory of computer equipment that is in each office.  They will need to make an appointment with Jami Page to do the inventory.  Bids will be due by April 26th at 2:00.  The bids will be open at that time.  Jim Platt asked if the phones would continue to be with Lumen.  Jim Wheatley said they want to get away from using Brightspeed.  The IT provider we go with will monitor our phone system.  Brenda Doody said she currently does not have a server in her office.  She is backing up her computers to a flash drive.

April 3 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. In accordance with Sunshine Law Section 610.021 Legal Action.

Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney made the motion to go into closed session at 10:25 am. Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson seconded. All voted yes. Motion passed. Closed session started. 

At 10:36 am Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson made the motion to leave closed session and resume normal meeting. Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney seconded. All voted yes. Motion passed. Normal session resumed.  In accordance with Sunshine Law Section 610.021 Legal Action.

Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson made the motion to go into closed session. Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney seconded. All vote yes. Motion carried. Close Session commenced at 1:50pm. 

Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney made the motion to end closed session at 2:00 pm and resume regular meeting. Southern Commissioner seconded. All voted yes. Motion carried.

April 5 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Approved bills.

Bill Stephens with Road and Bridges came in to check in with the Commission. 

NextEra Energy representatives, Fiona Bagwell, John Felitto and Alan Anderson came in to check on the road use and decommission agreements. Jim reported they have spoken with Ivan Schraeder, the county’s legal representation, and he had cleared the agreement. Jim stated he has not read through it all as of  yet but is hoping to have it back to her on Monday. Jim did ask if they were only constructing the solar farm and then selling it. Fiona stated this company is the developer, owner and operator in most cases. Only once did they end up selling the farm to the utilities and even then they remained the operator. They have had 9 projects that all have gone as planned and to time frame. They want the same for our County so we would have a good experience to share.  Ken asked if the lease agreements with the landowner stays with the land or with the owner. Fiona stated they agreements are with the land. The payments could be changed but the agreements and easements stand for the 30 years. Ken also asked if the closing of the Lacygne power plant changes anything for the solar farm. Fiona stated no as the power plant is only the area where they can tie into the power grid. Jim asked about  hydrogen power. Fiona stated that in most cases the hydrogen power plants use renewable energy like solar and wind to fuel their generation. Having a mix of available sources only strengthens the power available on the grid. 

Ray and Nina, county maintenance and custodian, came over to bring to the commissions attention the courthouse camera and security system lease is about up. Currently we are paying $1100.00 to Federal Protection to lease the system. Per the agreement they are supposed to maintain, repair and replace any equipment. Currently they have not replaced the courtroom’s camera or view so that the whole room can be seen. They are also hard to get ahold of or deal with for repairs. Ray mentioned during the Fire Alarm System install with Atronic they provided a quote for owning a system with a maintenance agreement of $490.00 a month. They have been very helpful and available.

April 10 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

They went over the legal document for the NextEra Road Use Agreement. Ken made the motion to accept the road use agreement. Trent seconded the motion. All voted yes. Motion passed no opposition. Agreement was signed by the Commission and Attested by County Clerk, Jami Page. 

They also went over the decommissioning agreement. Ken made the motion to accept the decommissioning agreement. Trent Nelson seconded. All voted yes. Motion passed no opposition. Agreement was signed. Attested by County Clerk, Jami Page.

April 12 The Bates County Commission met with Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley was attending a meeting in Jefferson City.

10:00 am. Josh Framel, with Clearway, came in to update the commission on the Swan Project at Lacygne. This is the second solar project in the area. They are wanting to get conversations started on the Road Agreements and Decommissioning. They have the land they need  in agreements. Around 2000 acres in Missouri and 2000 acres in Linn County, Kansas. They will be moving into the boundary survey and geological testing phase. The design phase will be soon after. Once everything is set it should take about 18 months to complete. They will use a main contractor and hopefully hire local workers. 

11:00 Haley Meyers is wanting to present supplemental insurance to the county workers. This is a non-payroll supplemental insurance that is an owned policy. People keep the policy even if they move to a different job.  These policies are unique in the fact that if the policy is not used in 25 years the premiums up to that point are paid back to the person. The policy is still on-going and premiums still owed. This company is Better Business Bureau A+ and Best A+ rating.

April 17 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

9:00 County Clerk, Jami Page, has the assessor’s reimbursement that needs signed by the commission. She also brought in the ordinance for the Marijuana tax. The department of Revenue needs this soon. She also brought 3 quotes for a new mower for the courthouse.

11:00 Werner Jones, Hometown Tech, came in asking for permission to put a site to site antenna on the tower at the road and bridge barn. There are 2 customers out that way that are having trouble with their signal and this would boost that for them. His insurance would cover any instances this might cause. The equipment only weighs 11 pounds, and he would install it. He is a certified climber. The commission asked for him to come back when the signal he is using is more secure.   2:00 Todd with KC Web. This was rescheduled.

April 19 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present. Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney, joined that day. 

Todd Hanifl and Philp Derr with KC Web came in to discuss installing equipment on the radio tower for internet service. They own their own equipment and have their own carrier. This is needed to provide service to residents south of the tower. Jim stated he didn’t want people out there at all hours and would need to discuss this with the county attorney.  Todd said the equipment needs to be 100 feet up the tower. Trent mentioned the tower may need some maintenance done to it. The Commissions biggest concern                            Continued next page>

is security and liability. Todd assured the commission they were insured. Approved Bills. 

Lindsey Chaffin with Great River Engineering came in to talk about BRO-23 replacement on county road 130041/ 24ft wide bridge with guardrail. Preliminary estimate is $600,000.00. Project will start in 2024. They will start talking to the landowners in the late summer or early fall. 

Ryan Cutter, Meteorologist in Pleasant Hill came in to give a presentation on heavy rain and perform an exercise showing what the National Weather Service does for a watch and a flash flood warning. Those attending were Brenda Cecil, Jason Wix, Mike West, Jerret Wheatley, Dennis Jacobs, Jason Bennett, Jim Roberts, Derick Barr, Trent Diehl, and Brady Gilleland.                                                        

Commission approved for Dewey’s to go ahead and take down the tree on the south side. They want him to check the tree on the east side to see if it needs to come down or just be trimmed. 

Ken made the motion to appoint Wesley Hubbard to fill in the vacant position on the Senior Services Board. Trent 2nd. All in favor. Motion passed. 

The Commission hasn’t decided yet on the mower bid. 

Trent made the motion to approve the 3% marijuana sales tax ordinance. Ken seconded the motion. All in favor. Motion passed. Ordinance # 2023-01. 

Commission discussed with their legal counsel the use of taxpayer dollars.  They were informed by their legal counsel that according to Missouri State Constitution, Article 4, Sections 23 thru 25, no county, city or other political subdivision of the state shall be authorized to lend its credit or grant public money or thing of value to or in aid of any corporation, association or individual. The commission is to continue to discuss this at their next meeting.

April 24 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley, Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney and Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson present.

Kevin Fischer with PWSD #7 came in to check on the status of the ARPA money. The Commission stated they have been working on it and will make decisions in the next 2 weeks. Kevin says they are starting the work soon and just wants to be assured that they are receiving money from the ARPA. The commission stated they are committed to giving the water districts money for their repairs. 

The Courthouse is having issues with access to and from the building. Once people are in, they can go to any door and exit or let others in. There needs to be one main access point at the security desk. Atronic has submitted a quote to have the doors opened if the fire alarms go off. With this in place all the doors except the security door could be shut off. This would mean the employees would need to go through the security access point as well. 

Ken made the motion due to the structural integrity concerns no private entity is allowed to be on or put any equipment on the radio tower at the bridge barn. Trent seconded. All in favor. Motion passed with no opposition. A phone call was made to Russ at the Hospital, and he stated they use the repeater on the tower for communication with their ambulances. 

Bids for the lawn mower are Golden Valley Tractor in Clinton $13,174.99, Heritage Tractor in Adrian $16,694.00 and Extreme Motors in Butler $8942.00. Ken made the motion to go with Extreme Motors. Trent seconded. All in favor. Motion passed. No opposition.

April 26 The Bates County Commission met with Presiding Commissioner Jim Wheatley present.  Southern Commissioner Trent Nelson came in later in the day.  Northern Commissioner Ken Mooney was absent. Approved bills.

May 3 The commission approved bills and met with Shayne Simmons regarding courthouse security.

May 8 No meeting, Truman Day holiday.

May 10 Approved bills.

May 15 Depository bid opening.

May 17 Approved bills

May 22 Met with Galen Floyd regarding group benefit services. I.T. bid opening.

May 24 Approved bills and held I.T. meeting.

May 29 No meeting, holiday.

May 31 Approved bills. Met with State Representative Sherri Gallick.

Additional notes regarding May meetings will be provided in an upcoming post.

LOCAL NEWS-BUTLER CITY COUNCIL-MAY 7, 2013

In Butler City Council news, our Mark Arbuthnot, our City Administrator, has dropped the other shoe. Some time ago, he told the City Council that he has plans to retire, but had no precise date in mind, and this would give them time to thank about a change. Mark still has no exact date in mind, but has told the Council to find a replacement. His plan is to retire in Florida. It goes without saying, that we regret his decision, and we’ll have more on this as the Council studies the coming change.

In conjunction with Mark’s coming retirement, the City Council has received a five-page application from the company of Art Davis, to look for a new city administrator. He comes with much information as to his qualifications, and with an estimated cost of an amount not to exceed 11-thousand dollars, but with a list of possible additional expenses, with some amounts such as airfare, trip mileage, overnight expenses and other items unknown at this time. The Council approved the proposal, but will not get down to business until our present City Administrator gives a definite date for his
retirement.

The citywide spring cleanup is picking up at all houses north of Fort Scott Street this week, and all south of Fort Scott Street next week.

Bates County Disposal will pick up old furniture, appliances, paint, batteries and miscellaneous junk, and the City of Butler will pick up your brush and limbs that are placed at the curb.

Have your clean-up items or trash separate from your regular weekly trash, but both should be at the curbside. Have your brush in a pile separate from the rest of your trash, and of course this also must be at the curbside. Leaves must be bagged in City of Butler leaf bags to have them collected.

Have everything ready by six a.m….they will not make return trips after they’ve completed a street.

The second part of the rate increase for sewers will be on your June first bill. You may remember that in order for the adjustment to be easier on you, the first portion was last year on June first…now the second portion will come up on your next bill.
The base rate for Butler residents is $11.40 per month, and $5.30 per thousand gallons of metered water use for all usage.
Outside of Butler city limits, the base fee will be $16.65 per month, and $8.45 per thousand gallons of metered water use for all usage.

For residents outside of Butler’s city limits that are not connected to the city’s waterworks system will be a base fee of $67.50 per month

A report from the Police Department shows 130 actions in March and 125 in April, with the most activity being with vehicle registration…39 in March and 31 last month. Less surprising is that they had to stop 36 speeders in March, and 26 in April. And they had 12 drug related arrests in march, and 16 in April.

The latest word concerning the proposed Solar Farm for Butler, is that MC Power has requested permission to erect an off-site sign on city property, adjacent to I-49/71 for the three-megawatt solar location. It has been recommended for approval, contingent on the purchase of the city property by MC Power, and on approval from the Missouri Department of Transportation.One step closer for the Solar Farm.

The study concerning Bates County and its three largest communities teaming together toward economic development in our area continues. The Butler City Council agreed to participate if the other two towns, Adrian and Rich Hill, will also take part. And of course there will be a final agreement between the cities and the county.

If entered into, the initial budget would be 50-thousand dollars, with the County paying half…Butler a bit over 14-thousand, Adrian almost six-thousand, and Rich Hill a little less than five-thousand dollars into the plan. Of course, economic development is on the minds of every area, and Bates County is as interested as any, in creating new jobs for our people.

Concerning the funding for the demolition of unsafe structures here in Butler, an application will be submitted to the Missouri Department of Economic Development toward that end.The funding would include 35 residential and three commercial properties. Butler has budgeted 50-thousand dollars for this work, with one-thousand dollars going toward each residence and 25% toward commercial demolition costs. More on that as it progresses.

Courtesy of FM. 92

Butler Police Department: Activity Report 1-6 / 1-13/ 2014

01/06/2014 

Medical assist 1200 block of N Orange
Medical assist 500 block of  N Main
Medical assist 700 block of Parkview
Well being check 400 block of W Mill
Warrant service 400 block of Fran
Assist BCSO 1000 block of W Mill Disturbance
Leave without pay Conoco

01/07/2014 

Suspicious person BCMH parking lot
Alarm Max Motors
Well being check
Disturbance Super 8
Noise complaint Ft Scott and Broadway

01/08/2014 
Well being check 500 block of W Lee
Disturbance Wal Mart parking lot
Keep the peace 800 block of W Pine
Fraud report
Assist BCSO 700 block of Country Club
Alarm Max Motors

01/09/2014 
Well being check 800 block of W Pine
Warrant service Ft Scott and Willow
Keep the peace
Animal complaint 300 block of S Delaware

01/10/2014 
Walk in theft report
Warrant service
Out with subjects in the alley on the Square

01/11/2014 
Well being check Wilson st
Disturbance 100 block of Willow
Vandalism report Days Inn
Animal complaint 200 block of S High

01/12/2014 
Disturbance Orange St and Vine
Alarm Solar Farm
Disturbance BCMH ER

01/13/2014 
Noise complaint 300 block of S Olive
Possible fireworks Ft Scott and Broadway
Alarm Typhoon Bay
Leave without pay Filling Station
Alarm Solar Farm
Accident Wal Mart parking lot
Shoplifting call Wal Mart
Warrant service