The Johnson County Board of Supervisors met with officials from PNE Wind USA during a work session on May 10 to discuss possibly locating a wind farm near Solon.

Much of the discussion focused on the benefits and concerns associated with wind farms, and PNE Wind officials answered some questions from the supervisors.

"What’s in it for Johnson County?" asked Supervisor Pat Harney.

Harney said he wanted to make sure a wind farm would be beneficial to the county’s residents.

Keith Kurtz, PNE Wind greenfield developer, said the energy generated would stay local, boost the economy locally, and allow for improved roads — paid for by the wind company in order to construct the site.

PNE Wind, a German company, has only been active in the United States for two and a half years.

A majority of the supervisors said they were excited about the wind-farm opportunity.

"If we’re not prepared to move forward with wind energy, than we better be prepared for a nuclear-energy facility," said Supervisor Janelle Rettig.

— by Katie Heine