Planners note staffing changes and uptick in renewable-energy project activity

At the meeting’s end Planning Director Stephanie Case updated the commission on department staffing and local project activity. Case said the planning department is recruiting for a planning director and staff planner, that planner Carla plans to retire June 30, and that the City of Boardman has notified the county of an intent to terminate a contract effective June 30. Case said the county will support a transition during that period.

Case also reported a noticeable increase in renewable-energy activity, including an uptick in MET-tower permit requests and notices of intent for renewable projects. She said a project team (identified in staff comments as Brookfield Renewables/Saddle Butte) will present information to the Gilliam County court in mid-March. Case noted ongoing work on relocation of Cedar Springs Road and wetlands mapping in coordination with an engineering consultant.

Why it matters: Staffing changes in the planning department may affect capacity for reviewing land-use applications and managing upcoming projects; the increase in renewable-energy proposals and MET towers indicates potential changes in land use and infrastructure needs in Gilliam County.

What’s next: Staff will continue recruitment and work with county leadership on transitions and will forward project presentations and technical review items (wetlands mapping, road relocation) to the county court and appropriate review committees.