WMOK – Metropolis, IL The Massac County Board of Commissioners is inviting the community to participate in a Public Hearing on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, from 7 PM to 9 PM. The event will take place in the large courtroom of the Massac County Courthouse, located at 2 Superman Square, Metropolis, Illinois.

This Public Hearing is a significant opportunity for residents to learn about and provide feedback on an Application for a special use permit concerning a proposed commercial solar energy facility. The Application, submitted by SE US Development, LLC, also known as SB Energy of Redwood City, California, seeks to establish a Solar Project on approximately 5,150 acres of land situated across Johnson and Massac Counties.

The Massac County portion of the project will be located around 2 miles east of Belknap, within an unincorporated area of Massac County. The land involved in this project pertains to various sections of Township 14 South, Range 3 East of the Third Principal Meridian, specifically Sections 01, 02, 03, 11, 12, and 30.

Residents are encouraged to attend the hearing to express their opinions, ask questions, and gain a better understanding of how the proposed solar facility could impact the community. Copies of the Application will be available for examination at the Massac County Clerk’s Office for those interested in reviewing the specifics of the project prior to the hearing.

This Public Hearing presents an essential platform for community engagement in shaping the future of renewable energy in our region. Don’t miss the chance to make your voice heard!

The Massac County Commissioners spoke with us regarding this when they joined us for our Coffee Break Program early in March.  You can hear our discussion below.  

The Massac County Commissioners will join us again for our live Coffee Break Program on Tuesday March 31st following the 8am WMOK News Check

WMOK Speaks with the Massac County Commissioners Regarding Proposed Solar Project – Part 1 – 3.3.26

WMOK Listens: Massac County Commissioners Answer Your Questions About the Proposed Solar Project – Part 2 – 3.4.26

• When: Tuesday, March 31, 2026

• Time: 10:30 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

• Where: SICIL (Southern Illinois Center for Independent Living)

  • 101 W. 8th Street, Metropolis, IL 62960

• Presented By: Land of Lincoln Legal Aid in partnership with the Center for Disability and Elder Law (CDEL).

• The Topic: A discussion on the power of attorney (POA) for health care and property.

  • Note: This is not a legal presentation; it is an informational session to help people understand these documents and how to obtain them.

• Bonus Services: A caseworker will be available to discuss POA and Will services that Land of Lincoln Legal Aid can provide to eligible individuals.

• More Information: Call (618) 638-1377.

Project Hope Humane Society is seeking volunteers for its Roadblock event on Saturday, April 4th, from 8 AM to 12 noon at 12th Street and North Avenue, and 12th Street and Metropolis St. Volunteers can assist for one to four hours, and students aged 14-16 are especially encouraged to help. Contact Project Hope Human Society at (618) 638-4555

The Heroes of Massac Endeavors (HOME) has officially announced the return of their signature fundraising event.

The Steele Wings Swing Dance is set to take place on Saturday, September 19, 2026.

This 1940s-themed evening serves as a key benefit for the construction of a statue honoring Metropolis native and WWII paratrooper John Marvin Steele, along with a memorial for all Massac County WWII fallen heroes.

What to Expect

#LiveBigBand Music: The evening typically features a full orchestra (past years have featured Steve Shininger & The ShinSings) playing authentic 1940s standards.

#Vintage Attire: Attendees are encouraged to dress in their finest 1940s costumes. Trophies are traditionally awarded for the “Best Dressed Gal,” “Best Dressed Guy,” and “Best Dance Duo.”

#NostalgicAtmosphere: The event often includes period-appropriate hors d’oeuvres, desserts, and vintage photo opportunities to transport guests back in time.

Community Impact: All proceeds go directly toward the John Marvin Steele Statue and #WWIIMemorial project.

Event Logistics
When: Saturday, September 19, 2026