Mercer County

The board considered and approved two zoning cases for non-farm residences within an agricultural district and two temporary use permits for gravel pits, with stipulations added regarding road maintenance and water impact. Additionally, the board reviewed a zoning case involving water board input and state transportation approval, discussed progress on a data center ordinance sub-committee, and received a project presentation from Next Era and Basin Electric regarding a proposed natural gas electric generating plant.

The Commission addressed several administrative and operational items, including updates to the Nationwide Plan for employees, approval of various zoning cases, and the issuance of temporary use permits. The Commission reviewed and approved annual bid recommendations, several equipment purchases for the Highway Department, and awarded a bid for the Cabin Site #2 Special Assessment District. A public hearing was held regarding a request from The Coteau Properties Company for surface coal mining operations within a public road right-of-way, which was subsequently approved. The meeting also included project updates on the River Run Energy and Data Center and the authorization of payments for various outstanding bills.

The Commission addressed road maintenance issues by approving culvert lining and replacement projects for County Road 27 N and County Road 16, with a budget not to exceed $100,000. Additionally, in response to extremely dry conditions and upon the recommendation of area Fire Chiefs, the Commission authorized a total burn ban effective until the next scheduled meeting or a special session is called.

The commission addressed several administrative and development issues, including the approval of an agreement to receive state reimbursement for clerk of court services and the authorization of a duplicate check request. The commission also processed sheriff department revenues and made an appointment to the county housing board. Significant time was spent on energy sector proposals, including a petition for a setback waiver regarding coal properties and an informational presentation on a proposed combined cycle natural gas generation facility to support a hyperscale data center. A public hearing was held for amendments to the county zoning ordinance related to data centers and digital asset mining, resulting in the partial approval of updated definitions and industrial district regulations. Additionally, the commission approved highway department infrastructure permits and roof repairs, discussed payroll federal tax withholding procedures, and authorized the payment of various outstanding county bills.

The meeting included an update from the NDSU Extension Family and Wellness Agent, the approval of a conditional use designation for data centers within the Industrial District, and updates regarding the River Run Energy Center project. Additionally, the commission approved recorder's revenues, a design proposal for Beulah building prints, multiple highway department task orders, a utility permit, and a proposal for a financial system conversion audit. The commission also reviewed and approved a list of county expenditures.