New wind farm possibility reported

By Melinda L. Lucas

Shackelford County commissioners worked through several items on their July 10 agenda, including setting a time for the first budget workshop of 2023 next Monday at 1:00 p.m.

County judge John Viertel also reported that representatives from Lone Star I Windfarm Data Center are expected to be at the next regular session to talk about a proposed wind farm in Precinct 4 north of Hwy. 351.

Viertel said that he is studying the county’s tax abatement options and conferring with officials from other counties.

Broadband Transition

There has been no communication with FiberLight about a timeline for installation, Viertel said.

The commissioners agreed that there should be an “overlap” before terminating AT&T services.

Tower Update

Viertel reported that he had an appointment with attorney John Montgomery on Monday to go over a letter to WesTex Connect concerning equipment on the county-owned communications tower.

The company apparently still has equipment on the tower, with the lease expiring March 31, 2023.

There has been no response to Viertel’s attempts to contact WesTex Connect.

Action was tabled until Viertel reports on his meeting with Montgomery.

Other Business

•The county judge was authorized to sign resolutions associated with the Texas Opioids Litigation settlement, which is required to move forward but will bring little in payments to Shackelford County.

•Commissioners agreed that the north door should be unlocked during business hours.