Larry Danduran

New Rockford

As many readers know, I have been described as a “vocal critic” of the proposed wind conversion project in Eddy County. However, my actions are not rooted in opposition to renewable energy. They are driven by a duty to protect the people of this county from manipulation, coercion, and the misuse of public authority for private gain.

Recently, I filed a formal appeal with the help of an attorney and a separate Pro Se complaint in our District Court. Both filings challenge the legality of the County

Commission’s and Zoning Board’s actions regarding the PRC Wind Project. These actions were not taken lightly. They were necessary because our local government has ignored the North Dakota Century Code and Eddy County Zoning Ordinance, disregarded public participation, and allowed those with direct financial interests to influence decisions affecting every resident of this county.

The people of Eddy County deserve full transparency — not backroom deals or procedural shortcuts. When elected or appointed officials stand to personally benefit from the outcome of a project, it destroys public trust and violates the very principles of ethical governance.

Beyond the procedural violations, the risks of this project to our community are serious and far-reaching:

– Higher Electricity Costs: Wind projects do not guarantee lower energy prices. In many regions, reliance on intermittent power sources has led to higher utility bills.

– Population Displacement: Industrial wind development drives rural residents away, eroding the very communities we are trying to sustain.

– Taxpayer Burden: The promises of local tax revenue often fade when subsidies expire, leaving counties responsible for infrastructure maintenance and decommissioning.

– Decommissioning Liability: Once the turbines reach the end of their lifespan, the cost to dismantle and restore the land often falls on the taxpayers — not the

Developers.

— Environmental Impact: Thousands of tons of concrete, steel and fiberglass left behind alter our land forever, compromising farmland and wildlife habitats.

As citizens, we must remember that our rights are God-given and constitutionally protected. The right to speak, to question, to seek accountability, and to protect one’s property from government overreach are fundamental to a free people. These are not privileges granted by the state; they are inherent rights recognized by our Constitution and paid for by the sacrifices of those who came before us.

As Chairman of the North Dakota District 14 GOP, I take seriously my moral and ethical obligation to represent my constituents honestly — not to bow to political pressure or corporate influence. This fight is not about politics or partisanship. It is about preserving the rule of law, the integrity of our institutions, and the voice of the people of Eddy County.

We have one chance to get this right — to ensure that decisions are made lawfully, transparently, and in the best interest of all citizens, not just a privileged few.