Walworth County Commission listens to residents discuss solar farm ordinance

Solar Farm

The Walworth County Commissioners listened to several county residents talk about the possibility of allowing a solar farm to be built in the county.  Impacts to businesses, maintaining wetlands, and requirements of change of ownership of land were just a few of the concerns cited by individuals at the commission meeting Tuesday (November 7th).  The commission then passed a motion on a four-to-one vote to change the setback requirements on the ordinance to one mile from a dwelling and 1,000 feet from a property line.  Commissioner Kevin Holgard was the lone “no” vote.

Oversight Committee

Commissioner Scott Schilling brought up his motion from the previous meeting to form an oversight committee of the sheriff’s office.  A county resident in attendance at the meeting suggested that an oversight committee should include all county offices.  Commission Chairman Jim Houck said committees are already in place for the highway and sheriff’s departments, and the motion failed.

Sheriff/Jail

The commission approved advertising for a budget supplement of $100,000.00 for the jail to cover boarding and medical for both adults and juveniles.

Jail contracts with Hughes County for adult and juvenile boarding were approved.  Cost per day for adult inmates will increase to $97.50 and $375.00 for juveniles.

Highway

Retired Highway Superintendent Gary Byre will continue to work to finish the Master Transportation Plan for Walworth County.

Representatives from IMEG visited with the commissioners about bridge inspection and analysis.

Auditor

The commission approved a motion to advertise for budget supplements for 911, the sheriff’s department, and courthouse repair.

The commissioners will look into liability insurance regarding tax deed properties.

The 911 Joint Powers Agreement was approved.

A motion passed to have Commission Chairman Houck sign the paperwork for renewal of health insurance with Health Partners.

The commission approved Friday, November 24th, to be a holiday with pay for county employees.