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Reno County Commission Hears Public Concerns on Battery Storage, Advances STAR Bond Project
The Reno County Commission met Wednesday morning at the courthouse, opening with the Pledge of Allegiance and a prayer before moving into public comment and regular business.
Public Comment Focuses on Battery Storage Concerns
Randy Penner
Erin Baker
Deborah Murray
Allen McIntosh
Several residents spoke during public comment about proposed battery energy storage systems (BESS) in the county, raising concerns about fire risks, hazardous materials, water usage and potential impacts to the Equus Beds aquifer. Speakers urged the Commission to consider a moratorium similar to neighboring counties and emphasized long-term environmental and safety considerations.
Commissioners acknowledged the concerns, noting discussions are ongoing with local partners and state agencies.
Commission Chair Ron Hirst addressed the concerns, emphasizing that no formal applications or official inquiries for battery storage facilities or data centers have been submitted to the county at this time. He said so far there has only been an inquiry, not a formal request. He noted that current discussions are preliminary and that any formal proposal would go through the established planning and zoning process, including public hearings, ensuring residents have opportunities to provide input before any decisions are made. Officials emphasized a balance between protecting resources and remaining open to new development opportunities.
Consent Agenda Approved
Commissioners unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included:
- Purchase of a used CAT 950M loader for Public Works ($304,780)
- Equipment purchase for mowing operations
- Annual engineering report
- Cereal malt beverage license renewals
- Planning and zoning conditional use permits
- Authorization related to opioid claims
- Agreement with Meadowlark Renewables for gas system improvements
Bob Johnson, Counsel for Prairie Lick LLC
Jim Klausman, principal Prairie Lick
Reno County Commissioners
Reno County Commissioners
STAR Bond Process Begins for Salt Lick Project
The Commission approved a resolution to set a public hearing on May 13 for a proposed STAR Bond district tied to the Salt Lick golf and hunting resort project near Hutchinson.
Developers outlined plans for a multi-phase, destination golf facility featuring three courses, lodging and amenities designed to attract national visitors. The project would rely on sales tax generated within the development to repay bonds, with no direct use of existing taxpayer funds.
Commissioners said the public hearing will provide an opportunity for additional community input as the process moves forward.
Jeff Schenk, South Hutchinson City Manager
Housing Incentive Proposal Moves Forward
Commissioners also approved moving forward with an agreement to provide up to $63,000 in housing incentives for the City of South Hutchinson. The initiative aims to encourage residential construction in the Prairie Ridge subdivision and address ongoing housing shortages in the county.
Reno County Commissioners Richard Winger, left, Don Bogner, Ron Hirst, Randy Parks and Ron Vincent, right. 
County counselor John Settle, left, and County Administrator Randy Partington.
Commission Sets Priorities for 2026–2027
The Commission formally adopted strategic priorities, including:
- Strengthening the workforce and addressing staffing needs
- Limiting property tax growth
- Improving operational efficiency
- Supporting economic development
- Enhancing public communication and transparency
Additional Updates and Upcoming Events
Commissioners shared updates on EMS operations, highlighting improved efficiency and response times while noting anticipated budget increases due to delayed equipment replacements.
Announced were upcoming EMS station open houses:
April 17 – Hutchinson Station #2
211 W. 5th, Hutchinson
Open House & Ribbon Cutting
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
April 24 – Arlington EMS Station #3
107 W. Fair St. in Arlington.
Open House
4:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Budget work sessions are expected to begin in May following regular Commission meetings.
Executive Session and Adjournment
The Commission entered executive session to discuss non-elected personnel. No action was taken following the session, and the meeting adjourned.