Board approves variance for Northern Natural Gas to place prefabricated structures near Green Plains plant

The Dickinson County Board of Adjustment on May 28 approved a variance allowing Northern Natural Gas, representing Green Plains Superior LLC, to place prefabricated structures at 1495 320th Ave in Superior Township to support operations at the nearby Green Plains ethanol plant.

Mitch Kleist, representing Northern Natural Gas, told the board the station at the site is metered into the local distribution system and that the proposed prefabricated structures would be used to feed the ethanol plant. Kleist said the structures are intended to protect equipment from weather and to address noise and grain (corn) that result from the plant’s operations. He described the structures as prefabricated units that would be dropped into place.

Planning & Zoning Administrator Megan Kardell noted that the county code "excludes buildings" in the front yard and that accessory buildings are typically not allowed in the front yard on a corner lot along Highway 9, indicating a zoning rule relevant to the request. Chair Jeff Ashland asked for correspondence and public comment; none was offered. Kirby Berhow moved to approve the variance, Alex Oponski seconded, and the board voted 4-0 in favor (Oponski, Wills, Ashland, Berhow).

The minutes record no recorded public objections and do not include conditions beyond approval. The board then moved to other business.