FOREST CITY — Winnebago County supervisors are continuing work on possible new zoning rules covering solar projects, data centers and other large developments while also appointing a new county EMS coordinator and approving nearly $30,000 in claims.
The Winnebago County Board of Supervisors met September 29 with Supervisors Bill Jensvold, Terry Durby and Susan Smith present.
One of the meeting’s biggest discussions centered on possible changes to the county zoning ordinance, including whether solar development should be specifically addressed in the amendment now under consideration.
NorthIowaToday.com previously reported that Winnebago County officials are considering new rules for data centers, solar and battery storage projects amid concerns over water supplies, roads and electric rates.
Solar, data centers and water concerns remain under review
Supervisor Terry Durby discussed the proposed amendment to Winnebago County’s existing zoning ordinance.
According to the official minutes, topics included adding solar development to the amendment, Corn Suitability Rating requirements, noise restrictions, setbacks and decommissioning requirements for AI or data center facilities.
Officials also discussed monitors for wells, environmental studies and obtaining documentation from the Iowa Department of Natural Resources showing that an adequate water supply exists.
The zoning matter is scheduled to return to the supervisors’ agenda October 13 at 9 a.m.
The continuing discussion signals that county officials are still working through how much regulation should be placed on large energy and technology developments before projects move forward.
Joe Klukow appointed county EMS coordinator
Supervisors unanimously appointed Joe Klukow as Winnebago County EMS Coordinator.
The board also approved the fiscal year 2026 annual report from the county EMS Advisory Council.
The minutes do not provide additional details about Klukow’s duties or the terms of the appointment.
Emergency medical service funding and staffing have become increasingly important issues for rural Iowa counties as communities work to maintain ambulance coverage and response capabilities.
Road project canceled after material unavailable
County Engineer Scott Meinders updated supervisors on Secondary Roads projects.
Meinders reported that a planned fog-seal project had been canceled because the necessary material was unavailable.
He also told the board that Farner was moving into the county to begin work on County Road A38 from Leland to the Winnebago Church area.
Micro-surfacing was also discussed during the roads update.
Bear Creek grant funds aimed at economic development
Supervisors also discussed the Bear Creek Community Attraction and Tourism grant.
The minutes state that the funds will be used for economic development purposes.
NIT previously reported on the county’s involvement with the Bear Creek clubhouse project as supervisors considered county support and a multimillion-dollar spending plan.
The September 29 minutes do not specify how the latest CAT grant money will be divided or spent.
Full list of approved claims
The board approved $29,769.87 in claims.
- Amazon Capital Services — Supplies — $389.49
- Brian Kuchay — Services — $1,600.00
- David Peterson — Meeting — $56.92
- Duncan Heights Inc — Services — $342.00
- Ethan Curry — Services — $2,000.00
- Fidelity Security Life — Services — $1,410.40
- Forest City Ambulance Service — Services — $8,400.00
- Forest City Ford — Services — $987.86
- Galls LLC — Services — $92.31
- Hawkeye Communication Services — Services — $294.00
- Iowa Secretary of State — Services — $30.00
- Joe Klukow — Services — $2,850.00
- KC Nielsen Ltd — Services — $123.24
- Mary Lou Kleveland — Mileage — $100.78
- Medline Industries Inc — Supplies — $1,271.91
- North Iowa Reporting — Services — $701.25
- Polk Co Medical Examiner — Services — $250.00
- Professional Office Services — Services — $471.47
- Speer Financial Inc — Services — $375.00
- Spencer Armstrong — Services — $625.00
- Steve Bosma — Meeting — $67.56
- Steve Hepperly — Reimbursement — $48.99
- Steven Lillquist — Mileage — $238.41
- Thomas Gayther — Services — $625.00
- Troy Thompson — Meeting — $32.60
- Verizon Wireless — Telephone — $386.33
- Visa — Supplies — $18.81
- Willson & Pechacek PLC — Services — $448.50
- Winnebago Co Fair Assn — Transfer — $5,449.31
- Winnebago Co Tribune — Advertising — $82.73
Winnebago County supervisors have handled a series of sizable county expenditures this year. In August, NIT reported that the board approved nearly $388,000 in claims while paying a $247,000 paving bill and considering surveillance cameras at recycling sites.
Five manure management plans received
The Winnebago County Auditor’s Office also received five manure management plans.
- Buffalo 11 #70505
- Crystal 5 #70446
- Eagle 3 #59355
- Linden Finisher Farm #64399
- Newton Finisher Farm #64401
No action on those plans was recorded in the meeting minutes beyond acknowledging their receipt.
Supervisors also approved the county’s fiscal year 2026 REAP report.
The board adjourned until its next regular meeting at 9 a.m. October 6.