(KLZA)-- Dirt work is underway on a new cattle feed lot along U.S. Highway 73 south of Falls City.  The property is located a mile north of the Nebraska – Kansas border on the west side of the highway.

T & M Cattle Company is constructcing the lot.  Travis Witt told MSC News the lot will be 20-30 acres in size on the 220 acre farm that he owns.

A state permit has been issued for the feed lot which will have a capacity to feed 999 head of cattle.

Jerry McKim who  lives on a property adjoining the Witt property discussed his concerns including the odor,  dust, noise, rodents, runoff and what will happen to his property valuation with Richardson County Commissioners on Tuesday. 

In addition he said he was concerned about the truck traffic in the area because of his two young grandchildren that live across the road from the property.

 Commission Chairman David Sickel said that while the Board is sympathetic to McKims concerns,  that with no zoning in place in rural Richardson County there is nothing they can do. 

McKim said he understood it was unlikely the Board could help his situation,  but hopes something can be done to keep another situation like this from happening in the future.  

In 2002 Richardson County Commissioners reviewed a proposed zoning plan for Richardson County,  but no action was ever taken to adopt the plan.

Former Commissioner Gayle Swisegood attending the meeting Tuesday and noted that at the time, the Board felt the proposed zoning regulations were extremely restrictive and noted the proposal was very unpopular with the public.