VALENTINE, Neb. — Those needing zoning permits for projects in Cherry County will have to wait a little longer. The Cherry County Zoning Department remains closed as county commissioners continue their search for a new administrator.

As News Channel Nebraska previously reported, former zoning administrator Jane Stolzenburg submitted her resignation effective Oct. 31. During Wednesday’s commission meeting, Stolzenburg offered to work in the interim until a replacement is hired, but she requested $53 per hour — a rate commissioners said was too high.

The closure has caused logistical issues for the county, including how to handle checks submitted with zoning applications. The department head must code those checks before they can be processed by the county treasurer. Five checks for pending projects — including cell tower improvements — have been received since Stolzenburg’s resignation. Commissioners agreed to secure them in a locked cabinet until a new administrator is in place.

The zoning position has drawn significant public attention in recent months amid ongoing legal disputes over the proposed wind farm near Kilgore, large-scale hog confinements and efforts to update the county’s comprehensive plan.

“I strongly believe we can’t keep that office closed,” Commissioner Mike McConaughey said, with the other two commissioners agreeing that the position plays a critical role in county operations.

Those interested in the position can pick up an application in the Cherry County Clerk’s Office.