Blackford County Commissioners Approve Prairie Creek Wind Farm Phase 2 Economic Development Agreement

From the Blackford County Commissioner Meeting on June 15, 2026

The Blackford County Commissioners unanimously approved the Prairie Creek Wind Farm Phase 2 Economic Development Agreement, passing Resolution 2026-07 in a 3-0 vote.

The agreement was the product of months of negotiations between the county and RWE — both the Prairie Creek and Teays River agreements had been advancing toward approval. Economic Development Director Warren Brown and an RWE representative identified as Nils attended the meeting. The agreement includes setback requirements of 1,000 feet from residences and 750 feet from property lines.

A member of the public challenged the setback distances, arguing the commissioners overrode recommendations from the Area Plan Commission. Commissioner Lancaster responded that the commissioners set the distances they determined were appropriate.

Separately, the Highway Superintendent presented details on road impacts from both Prairie Creek phases — the county has already reported tens of thousands in road damage fees from existing energy construction. The two phases will affect 58.8 total miles of county roads — 37.7 miles for Phase 1 and 21.1 miles for Phase 2. Roads will receive a 2-inch hot mix asphalt overlay before construction begins: 17 miles for Phase 1 and 4 miles for Phase 2. Any road damage during the project will be repaired during and after construction. Commissioners approved the asphalt overlay plan 3-0.

The Road Use Agreement itself was deferred to a future meeting. The EDA now goes to the County Council for review, scheduled for July 8.

A separate economic development agreement for the Teays River energy project was not discussed at this meeting despite appearing on prior agendas.

Source: YouTube transcript — 6.15.2026_Blackford County_Commissioner Meeting

Some information may be inaccurate due to video audio quality.