HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Public comments to the Reno County planning commission concerning a conditional use permit for a proposed wind farm have concluded. However, officials with NextEra Energy have yet to give their rebuttal.

NextEra wants to place as many as 88 wind turbines in southeastern Reno County. Dozens spoke to the commission and gave their thoughts for or against the project.

Most who spoke against it worry about their property values dropping, the noise, health issues and shadow flicker from the turbines. But there were also some with environmental concerns. Some questioned what the turbines could do to migratory birds and other animals that make the proposed area their home. Many also wanted setbacks for a mile or more. Others just don’t want the eyesore near their property.

Most who spoke Wednesday were from Sedgwick County and either live near the county line or have property in Reno County.

The planning commission will resume the hearing at 5 p.m. Thursday. Once NextEra officials are done making their final pitch, the planning commission will discuss the proposal privately and consider a recommendation for the Reno County Commission. The three commissioners will have the final say.

NextEra wants to start construction this summer and be operational late this year.