TABLING — Members of the Hancock County Commission, from back, Paul Cowey, Eron Chek, and Tommy Ogden, met in regular session Thursday, opting to table action on a series of items related to Current Hydro’s plan to construct a hydroelectric power plant in the county. -- Craig Howell

NEW CUMBERLAND — The latest step in efforts to develop a hydroelectric power facility in Hancock County will have to wait a little longer.

During their meeting Thursday, county commissioners opted to table consideration on four proposals related to plans by Current Hydro to construct its planned facility at the New Cumberland Locks and Dam.

“We’re waiting on a little more information from the Assessor’s Office,” explained Commission President Eron Chek.

The motion to table was made by Commissioner Paul Cowey, with Solicitor Mike Lucas clarifying it was meant for all four items listed on the agenda, and approved by a 3-0 vote.

As part of Thursday’s agenda, commissioners were scheduled to consider terms previously approved by the Hancock County Board of Education, related to the division and distribution of funds between the county and school district from a proposed Payment in Lieu of Taxes agreement with Current Hydro; a project lease agreement; a project payment agreement; and a project resolution.

Earlier this year, commissioners approved a letter of support for the project, which includes Current Hydro’s plans to locate its facility on the eastern side of the locks and dam. At the time, commissioners cited the potential for economic development in the county.

Proposals have estimated approximately 200 construction jobs would be involved in establishing the hydroelectric station, with original plans to have construction begin either late this year or early in 2026. It would include development of a dedicated fishing area.

In other business, Thursday, commissioners:

Approved the resignation of John Sorrenti from the Northern Panhandle Workforce Investment Board, following 40 years of membership, and agreed to advertise to fill the vacancy;

Agreed to advertise for a position on the Northern Panhandle Community Criminal Justice Board;

Approved the resignation of William Ross III as IT technician, effective Sept. 5, and to pay his accrued vacation and personal days in the amount of $2,091.84;

Approved paying Gary Jenkins for his accrued vacation and personal days in the amount of $4,541.32;

Approved the resignation of Sgt. Brent Bergman from the Hancock County Sheriff’s Department, effective Sept. 15, and pay his accrued vacation and personal time of $2,235.31;

Agreed to apply for the Prevention Resource Officer Grant for October 2025 to September 2026;

Approved the hiring of Danielle Best, retroactive to Aug. 25, and Trinity Ellis, retroactive to Sept. 8, as animal care technicians for the county Animal Shelter;

Approved an order rejecting claims in the Estate of Stephen J. Pawlock.