Natural gas power plant on farmland near Maysville
Central Iowa Power Cooperative proposed a $400 million, 240 MW peaking natural gas plant on prime farmland near Maysville. The Scott County Board of Supervisors rejected a zoning change to allow thermal energy generation on agricultural land, citing farmland loss, health, air quality, environment, and traffic concerns. CIPCO sought state approvals while local opposition continued; 2026 candidates largely opposed siting on prime farmland.
Should Scott County allow a natural gas power plant on prime agricultural land near Maysville?
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Sources
WVIK / Concerned Citizens of Scott County — https://www.wvik.org/wvik-top-stories/2026-02-12/controversial-new-power-plant-rejected-for-rural-scott-county
The Board rejected a zoning/ordinance change (early 2026, 4-0 or similar with one abstention) that would have allowed thermal energy generation on ag land, citing farmland loss, health/air quality, environment, and traffic.
Quad-City Times — https://qctimes.com/news/local/government-politics/article_7ac7627d-f496-4b7b-8db2-f39c91d0b8c0.html
Candidates largely opposed siting on prime farmland.
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Reject the plant entirely and prioritize renewable alternatives plus strict farmland protection
- Allow only if major environmental mitigations and community benefits are guaranteed
- Evaluate case-by-case based on zoning, local input, and balanced energy-farm needs
- Approve with standard conditions to support reliable energy and economic development
- Fast-track approval on ag land to meet energy needs and reduce regulatory barriers