County reviews proposals for substation and grant writing

Central Power Electric Cooperative sought comment from county officials regarding replacement of an existing substation in Eddy County; the property is located near the BNSF railway at the intersection of 20th Street NE and 64th Ave in Munster Township. Central Power plans to construct a new building on the existing site and expand to the west. The existing substation was built in 1950. At their regular meeting on Feb. 18 the commission stated that they had no concerns about the project.

Road Superintendent Todd Weber said he has received a few applicants for the open blade operator position. He also reviewed the wage and benefit structure with commissioners to familiarize himself, as this is his first time hiring a county employee. Wages are very competitive for the area, according to Weber. The deadline for applications is March 2. Commissioners asked that Weber also consider looking for a different sprayer with more water capacity. Now is a good time, they noted, as the equipment isn’t quite in demand yet this early in the year.

Sarah Smith Warren came to the commission with a proposal for writing an EPA Brownfields grant to remove the underground fuel tanks on the Mill Pump property. Smith Warren offered to begin work March 1 and finish April 1. The total cost to the county is $2,000, which includes writing, application submission and initial reporting. She noted the work plan does not include follow-up reports or final submittals for reimbursement. Those items could be negotiated at a later date if officials determine that her assistance is needed. Smith Warren did have a few questions for staff at the Department of Environmental Services, and Commissioner Dave Gehrtz asked that she include him on any correspondence with the department, as he has been the point of contact for the county thus far. The county approved the contract.

The next regular meeting is set for March 3 at 8:30 a.m.