When green energy stops feeling green in rural communities
Dear Editor:
Our community has long been shaped by its land. Family farms, wooded areas, and open space are part of daily life here. For many, that land has been passed down through generations. It is not just where people live. For many, it is part of their identity.
Renewable energy is necessary and important. At the same time, the way large-scale industrial renewable projects are being introduced into the community raises questions about land use, local control, environmental impact and who ultimately benefits.
The tourism industry has placed a strong emphasis on Henderson’s natural history. “Welcome to Nature” is more than a slogan. It reflects how many people here see their role as caretakers of the land. For many, there is a strong belief in taking care of what we have and leaving it better for the next generation.
That context is what makes the conversation around renewable energy more complex. On paper, it should feel like a natural fit. In practice, for some residents, it has not.
Property rights are part of the conversation and have long been valued in rural communities. At the same time, the concern often extends beyond individual decisions. Questions arise when large areas of agricultural land are rezoned for industrial use. In some recent proposals, this has involved projects spanning significant acreage and long-term agreements that can change how land is used for decades.
In some cases, nearby residents have said they did not receive enough information or time to fully understand what those changes would mean. That can turn what begins as a private decision into something that affects a broader group of neighbors. Some residents have also expressed frustration that when they raised concerns with local officials, they did not feel heard.
Many people we have spoken with are not opposed to renewable energy itself. The larger concern is how it is being introduced and whether the process reflects the values of the community.
There is a meaningful difference between small-scale sustainability and large industrial projects. In rural areas, sustainability often shows up through practical decisions about land, food and wildlife. Large-scale renewable developments operate on a different level and often require significant physical changes to the landscape along with long-term contractual commitments.
These projects can also bring investment and contribute to broader energy goals, which is part of why the conversation is not always straightforward. The challenge is finding an approach that balances those benefits with the priorities of the local community.
So it is fair to ask where the line is. At what point does a project meant to support the environment begin to conflict with the same values it is intended to promote. That question is not meant to shut down renewable energy. It is meant to ensure the approach matches the goal.
Process matters just as much as outcome. Some residents feel the pace of these projects has moved faster than the community’s ability to respond. Questions about long-term maintenance, storm damage and land restoration remain for some.
When those concerns are dismissed as resistance to progress, it can create more frustration than understanding. Asking questions should not be seen as opposition. It is part of being responsible and informed.
This does not have to be a purely political issue. People can support energy innovation while also wanting to protect farmland. They can be open to new ideas while still expecting thoughtful planning and clear communication.
At its core, this is about local voice.
Our community wants to be part of the decisions that will shape their land for decades. That can include clearer communication, earlier opportunities for public input, and stronger local oversight. It also means thinking carefully about where projects are placed and how their long-term impact will be managed.
There is also a reason some residents are comparing this to past development. When large companies have come into the area before, there was often more clarity about the benefits and the expected impact on the community. That contrast stands out and raises fair questions.
This conversation is still evolving. There is value in listening, asking better questions, and taking the time to work through complex issues.
Progress works best when it happens with a community, not around it. If renewable energy is truly about protecting the future, then the people who live on and care for the land should have a meaningful role in shaping how it happens.
Rachel Bray, Henderson
Les Jenkins-Mackey, Henderson
Retired jailer supports Willett to lead HCDC
Dear Editor:
A detention center doesn’t run on a title—it runs on leadership, training and steady decision-making. For that reason, I am endorsing Lt. Anthony Willett for Henderson County Jailer.
My name is Ron Herrington, retired Henderson County Jailer. I have known Anthony for more than two decades. He started at the Henderson County Detention Center in December 2002, when I was Chief Deputy (Colonel) under Jailer Miles Hart. From the beginning, Anthony stood out as a hard worker who handled pressure well and approached corrections the right way.
Over the years, I watched him earn his way up to Major. In 2005, when Miles Hart retired, I was appointed Jailer, and in 2006 I ran for the office and was elected. During my time leading the jail, Anthony was trusted with significant responsibilities because he consistently proved he could be counted on. He served in key leadership roles and as a training instructor, helping shape both operations and expectations inside the facility.
Anthony understood what many people miss: running a jail is more than locking doors. It is keeping staff safe, maintaining order, enforcing standards, treating people fairly and making decisions that stand up to scrutiny. He also understood budgeting and the importance of being disciplined with county dollars.
He made a lasting impact on training and preparedness. Anthony built the SERT team and helped establish a more structured training program for detention deputies—work that improves safety for staff, inmates and the public.
In 2012, Anthony left the detention center with my support and respect. I asked him more than once over the years to consider running for Jailer. At the time he told me he wasn’t ready, and I respected that honesty. I can say plainly that Anthony Willett was one of the best guard commanders I had at the Henderson County Detention Center.
Now that he has stepped forward to run, I am glad to support him. He has the experience, temperament and proven leadership to lead the detention center with strong training, staff support, responsible budgeting and professionalism.
I encourage you to vote for Anthony Willett for Henderson County Jailer.
Ron Herrington
Retired Henderson County Jailer
City commission candidate makes clarification
I appreciate the Hendersonian’s coverage of the city commissioner candidates. However, I want to clarify a few points from my recent interview that I believe were not fully or accurately represented.
The article (“A closer look at the Henderson City Commission candidates“) quoted me as saying “the codes department is very difficult to deal with.” While I did express concerns about aspects of the process, that quote does not tell the whole story. In the interview I cited the HCCO (Henderson Christian Community Outreach) situation to illustrate how the City can meaningfully assist nonprofits. My remarks were intended to praise Buzzy Newman’s work in guiding HCCO through a challenging situation—not to suggest the City was entirely uncooperative. Condensing that example to “the city was hard to work with for HCCO” misstates the point I was making.
I do want to review how our codes process compares with neighboring jurisdictions. I mentioned Madisonville as an example where staffing changes appeared to streamline certain approvals; that information is secondhand and not a definitive claim of fact. I have also heard from business owners who described difficulties navigating codes while trying to build or expand here, which is why I view this as a priority. My goal is to examine the facts, hear all perspectives, and pursue improvements where warranted—not to make a blanket judgment that the department or its employees are doing a poor job.
I also want to clarify my comments about City assistance to nonprofits. The article gives the impression I advocated providing City funds or resources directly to nonprofits. What I actually suggested was facilitating a unified platform or central resource so residents can easily find available nonprofit services. This idea was informed by work my Henderson Leadership Initiative class began in 2015 and subsequent research I’ve done. A practical starting point could be a resource guide posted on the City website.
I recognize Mr. Tweddell had a challenging task interviewing multiple candidates in brief phone calls, and I appreciate the Hendersonian’s role in informing the community. Any miscommunication may have been a result of the casual interview format as well as my own imprecision. My intent here is simply to ensure voters understand my positions on these specific topics.
Chris Thomas
Henderson
Beck has vision, courage and willingness to take action
At just 21 years old, Cooper Beck, a candidate for Henderson City Commission, represents something our community doesn’t see often enough—fresh perspective, bold ideas, and a willingness to step up rather than sit on the sidelines.
I had the opportunity to meet Cooper when he was still in high school, and even then, his level of maturity and insight stood out. It was clear he wasn’t just thinking about himself—he was thinking about his community. That kind of awareness at such a young age was noticeable and impressive, and it’s something he has only continued to build on.
Since then, he has proven that his leadership isn’t just potential—it’s action. Cooper founded Henderson Pride and has grown it exponentially in less than three years, showing his ability to turn vision into real impact. He serves on local boards, consistently seeks out leadership opportunities, and is always looking for ways to learn, grow, and better serve the community around him.
Some may question his age, but I see it as one of his greatest strengths. Cooper brings a direct connection to the younger generation—an understanding of the challenges they face, from limited opportunities for engagement to concerns around youth-related crime. His proposal for a Commission on Youth is a proactive step toward addressing these issues at their root, giving young people a voice and creating solutions that are long overdue.
As a mom raising young children here in Henderson, I care deeply about the future of our community. I want to see it continue to grow, evolve, and create opportunities for the next generation. Cooper’s leadership is refreshing and exactly what we need to move forward with intention and purpose.
Leadership isn’t defined by age—it’s defined by vision, courage, and the willingness to take action. Cooper Beck has shown he has all three.
I encourage our community to look beyond the number and focus on the impact. Cooper Beck is ready to lead.
Carrie Gentry
Henderson
Schneider brings proven results
Dear Editor:
Public debate about county leadership often overlooks the complexity of governing. Having worked with Henderson County Judge Executive Brad Schneider, I believe his record deserves our votes to continue as County Judge Executive.
I first met Brad Schneider in 2008 during the Chamber of Commerce’s search for a new president, and later worked with him as I chaired the Chamber’s “Taking Care of Business” Committee. As we worked to improve the business Climate in Henderson, Brad demonstrated a strong understanding of Planning and Codes, and a consistent commitment to following proper processes.
Much of the current discussion during this election season focuses on renewable energy issues, as well as many people’s apparent lack of understanding of the Planning process that regulates them. County decisions regarding effective ordinances governing renewable energy require careful adherence to governing regulations, in order to avoid unnecessary legal and financial consequences in the future.
Looking at the bigger picture, under Brad Schneider’s leadership, Henderson County has moved from serious past financial difficulty to today’s balanced budget, established reserves, stable taxes, and a significantly reduced insurance tax. These outcomes reflect smart, steady leadership and informed decision making.
As voters consider the County’s future, I encourage them to evaluate leadership based on experience, knowledge of county government, and, above all, proven results. I trust Brad Schneider to provide the leadership we need.
David McGan
Henderson
Concerns about culvert and plans for development behind Walmart
Dear Editor:
I am writing to express concerns regarding the recent creek clearing and maintenance activities taking place behind the Walmart property on Barrett Blvd, as well as the overall condition and future plans for this area.
I recently contacted multiple departments to better understand the work being performed and was ultimately informed by Public Works that the intent of the creek clearing is to prevent overflow during spring storm events. While I appreciate the importance of proactive stormwater management, the current conditions on site appear to contradict that goal and raise several concerns.
Specifically:
• The culvert at Barrett Blvd is currently obstructed with grass, mud, and debris, which may impede proper water flow and increase the risk of flooding rather than mitigate it.
• Numerous trees have been cut down and, in several instances, appear to have been felled directly into the creek itself.
• Wood chips, mud, and general debris from the clearing operations remained scattered throughout the area and along the pathway for an extended period, requiring residents to step in and clean portions of the sidewalk.
• The previously maintained greenspace and walking path have significantly deteriorated, becoming both unsightly and, at times, a concern for safety due to trash accumulation and loitering.
In its current state, the area reflects a decline in both environmental quality and community usability. It is especially concerning if these efforts are intended to improve drainage and infrastructure, as the visible results suggest the opposite.
Additionally, there has been discussion regarding potential development of this surrounding property. Given the current condition and apparent lack of effective site management, I would ask how future development will be responsibly executed and maintained.
Tim Neuenfeldt
Henderson
Letters to the editor information and policy
Letters to the editor are written by community members expressing their opinions about local issues. They are not news articles. The Hendersonian welcomes these letters in hopes of facilitating a robust yet respectful community discussion. We edit for clarity, style and if needed, brevity. Please be prepared to verify information contained in a letter. We reserve the right to decline publication of letters that are distasteful and disrespectful, or those that contain information that cannot be verified.
Send letters to news@the-hendersonian.com and include a phone number and the town in which you live. We will call to verify that you are the writer but won’t publish the phone number. We will not publish letters dealing with local candidates again until the September print edition.
