LINN COUNTY, Iowa — The words “air quality” are striking a nerve in Linn and Benton Counties, prompting confusion, concern, and strong reactions from both residents and local leaders.
What was expected to be a discussion focused on state law during Monday’s Linn County Board of Supervisors meeting quickly shifted into a broader conversation about a controversial proposed power plant near Fairfax.
At the center of the meeting was a proposed amendment to Linn County’s air quality ordinance. The changes stem from a 2023 state law requiring local air quality regulations to be consistent with standards set by the Iowa Department of Natural Resources, meaning Linn County can no longer enforce rules that are stricter than the state…