Des Moines County Residents Seek to Slow Wind Turbine Development

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Residents of Des Moines County, Iowa voiced concerns over a recently passed ordinance governing wind turbine construction at a County Board of Supervisors meeting on Tuesday. Kyler Massner, an attorney with the Cray Law Firm, argued the ordinance is lacking, and members of the public called for changes to the ordinance as well as an extension of the current moratorium on turbine construction.

Why it matters

The debate over wind turbine development in Des Moines County reflects a broader national trend of local communities grappling with the expansion of renewable energy infrastructure. Residents often raise concerns over issues like property values, environmental impact, and quality of life, leading to legal challenges and policy battles at the county level.

The details

At the County Board meeting, Kyler Massner, an attorney with the Cray Law Firm, spoke out against the recently passed ordinance regulating wind turbine construction, arguing that it is inadequate. Members of the public also voiced their desire to see changes made to the ordinance, and called for an extension of the current moratorium on turbine development in the county.

• The County Board of Supervisors meeting took place on Tuesday, January 28, 2026.
• An ordinance governing wind turbine construction was passed earlier this month in Des Moines County.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Des Moines County Board of Supervisors will likely consider further changes to the wind turbine ordinance and the extension of the current moratorium in future meetings.