Judge Norm Arends has been connected to Kiowa County for over 65 years. Throughout his career, he was a prosecutor, Judge and farmer, and remains a pillar in the community as a landowner, husband, father and grandfather.
What do you like about Kiowa County and being part of this community?
“Well, we’re just people that love the rural area. We like the fact that the people are all friendly and know each other and take good care of each other. These rural communities are really good communities to live in because you have all these friendships, you get to know people and you’re instantly connected. I wouldn’t want to live any other way.”
When you were first approached about the wind project, did you have concerns about development on your land?
“I don’t know if we had any preconceived ideas about wind energy at the time because it was fairly new. We weren’t familiar with wind turbines and what kind of impact they might have. Yet, for us development was a no-brainer because of all the benefits. We felt it was a good positive thing for us to do, and positive thing to do for our family.”
How do you think having a wind farm here will impact your family and your community?
“It is beneficial to us because it provides additional income. Agriculture is a tough business, so other income streams are beneficial to the farm community. All the people will benefit because of the tax base that the project is going to add to this county. I think having an additional income stream will help people keep the land in the family for more generations. We aren’t in control of what is going to happen down the road, but a good income stream makes it more possible for a family to keep the land and then pass it down from generation to generation. That is our goal and that is our hope.”
What is the general attitude/sentiment toward having a wind farm in the area?
“It has been accepted all over, and overall, the community recognizes the real need for it. If you look in the town or community, the people are happy to have the wind farm go up. The general sentiment is positive. Once people realize the benefits, it will continue to be accepted in the community.
Plus, the increased tax base is going to be extremely beneficial because they want a new hospital, medical facilities etc. They need that tax base to help support further infrastructure like this in the community.”
Outside of economic benefits, how do you feel about the land being used to create renewable energy for the state?
“All the energy sources are going to be necessary to keep this county going. The country runs on electricity and energy, so those sources are important. If we can have a wind farm that generates a beneficial energy source, I think that is good for the county, the community, and our state.
I’ve had some people ask about whether they should lease their land and I’ve told them yes. Anything that can help us provide better medical care, other facilities, additions to the service industry etc. is going to be beneficial to everyone in our community.”