New wind turbines could pop-up just north of Chenoa if a new wind project is approved and the city agrees to allow the structures nearby.
Chris Green from Tri Global Energy appeared before members of the Chenoa City Council Tuesday night about the Panther Grove 2 Wind Energy Facility which is proposed for the Livingston County townships of Nebraska, Waldo, Rooks Creek and Pike.
The project proposal is mainly west of I-55 but the company would like the ability to place turbines from the McLean County border just north of Chenoa up to the Interstate. According to Green, three to six turbines could be placed in that space.
“If the town allows us to do this, we would need to have an agreement in place before we place our permit with the county,” explained Green.
Panther Grove 2 is an expansion of a project in Woodford County. Around 100 turbines are slated for the area with construction expected to begin in September 2025 and the estimated commercial operation date of December 2026.
“Any road that we go across we have to have a road use agreement,” Green told the council.
Also at Tuesday’s regular Chenoa City Council meeting, a request was made by the Bloomington-Normal St. Jude Run team to hold a fundraiser in town this June.
“I don’t see any problem with doing that,” said Mayor David Shane.
Sarah Michaels of the Economic Development Council updated the council on what the EDC has been working on for months. They are looking to streamline the application process for TIF and BDD funding. Michaels noted the EDC is trying to utilize taxpayer funds in the best way possible so generating this form will help.
Michaels suggested council members add notes to the document then the hope is to have it finalized in the coming weeks for council consideration.
Michaels also reported forms are available from IDOT for any business wanting to be included on the big blue signs along the Interstate highway and she reminded everyone of the upcoming Route 66 Red Carpet Corridor Festival in early May. Signs will be put up around town and historical shields will be painted.
The council approved a Business District Redevelopment Agreement with TNT Cycles & Repair and Tanner Bagley. Mayor Shane said the only issue the city has is what they are getting in return on sales tax.
“That’s the big issue with these TIF agreements that we get paid back somehow,” noted Shane.
Bagley has already renovated restrooms and the electricity.
Don Schultheis was appointed to fill the vacancy on the Zoning Board created when Rick Carranza left due to his wife getting a job transfer.
“He’s always been a man of service,” observed Shane.
The treasurer reported the general fund had a $146,000 deficit on March 31 while there was a $1 million deficit for the water and sewer fund. Motor Fuel had a $52,000 surplus while the pool had a surplus of $18,000.
Commissioner Zack Lopeman said they are planning projects and getting materials purchased, hoping to do some major alley work by fixing potholes.
Commissioner Hernandez noted the swimming pool is being prepared for the season.
The City Council then entered into a budget workshop before adjourning.
