(KMZA)--A local citizens group is seeking a moratorium on wind energy projects while regulations are being developed.

Group representatives, Brad Lueger and Will Eisenbise, presented the Nemaha County Commission this week with a proposed county resolution that would halt action on wind farms until April 1, 2019.

Letters were presented from several area businesses and industries that support the moratorium, which could be extended.

Commissioners were asked to give a formal response on the proposed resolution in a week.

Also presented was the draft copy of a bill that has been introduced in the Kansas House that would regulate wind developments in the state.

In addition, the Commission was presented with a list of requests for wind energy developments in Nemaha and Brown Counties.

It requests a one-mile setback from turbines to non-participating landowner residences and a 1,500-foot setback from property lines of non-participating landowners.  A 500-foot maximum structure height is also requested.

In addition, requested is a property value guarantee in the event that a wind development causes neighboring property values to drop, a substantial annual payment in lieu of taxes, protections against shadow flicker and noise along with a decommissioning plan.

County resident Melinda Sperfslage presented Commissioners copies of resolutions approved by other Kansas counties that regulate noise control in their counties.

Nemaha County is currently in negotiations with Florida-based NextEra Energy Resources on terms for the proposed Soldier Creek Wind Farm.
Attorney James Neeld, who the county has retained to conduct the negotiations, was not available this week due to a family funeral.