A heated debate is expected tonight in Huron County regarding wind turbines.
Some residents say their public officials are trying to cash in by pushing a deal through with utility companies.
They say, it's a conflict of interest.
There are already scores of wind turbines in Michigan's Thumb, but Huron County is considering the possibility of dozens more.
NBC25 was shown several documents. Some are lease-contracts between utility companies and public officials.
In all, four of the nine planning commissioners, two members of the wind turbine sub-committee, and a Huron County commissioner have already inked deals that could profit them $10,000 per turbine on their property.
All of this is prior to the approval of the turbines, which they will decide.
The 2008 Michigan Planning Guidebook says a conflict of interest is "A real or seeming incompatibility between one's private interests and one's public or fiduciary duties." It goes on to say "A conflict of interest can also exist, if a planning commissioner has already publicly stated opposition or support for a particular project or use..."
Huron County board members were unavailable Wednesday for comment along with the corporate counsel of Huron County.
However, defenders of the officials say, they've disclosed everything and that nothing has been hidden.
The planning commission meets Wednesday (June 2nd) at 7:30PM at the Huron County Courthouse.
The matter could go for official approval of the Huron County Board Tuesday.
