Zoning change will allow private gas power plants

Whitman County commissioners unanimously approved changes to county zoning laws that would allow development of natural gas power plants by private companies.

Commissioners Pat O’Neill and Michael Largent voted Monday morning to change code language that allowed only the development of such plants by public entities to include private developments. Commissioner Greg Partch left Monday’s meeting early before the vote.

County Planner Alan Thomson said smaller-scale gas power plants may be needed in Whitman County to augment electricity produced by the Palouse Wind farm currently under construction on Naff Ridge between Oakesdale and Rosalia.

The county has not received any applications to develop such plants at this time.

Several reciprocating engine gas power plants are in operation throughout the U.S., said Thomson, and such plants are ideally situated near natural gas pipelines, several of which run through Whitman County.

They are often used to complement wind-powered electricity because they can be fired up and turned off in minutes, said Thomson.

Construction of a gas power plant is a conditional use, which requires public hearings before the citizen board of adjustment.

Several other changes to zoning regulations were also approved Monday.

One would allow owners of residential properties in the Pullman-Moscow Corridor zone to build accessory dwelling units, in the mode of mother-in-law suites, on their property. That will match requirements in the agricultural district.

Another change allows property owners to short plat parcels to separate farm buildings like grain bins and machine sheds from their residential property in the ag district.

Commissioners also gave Thomson authority to issue administrative permits to developers who want waivers to build within 35-feet from state or county roads in the Pullman-Moscow corridor. Thomson said such development requires permission from the respective road departments. Making the waiver an administrative use instead of a conditional use eliminates the need for public hearings.