Tensions remain high in Wabash County following this week’s vote to approve a large-scale solar farm in rural areas of the county.
After the county commissioners voted in favor of an application from RWE to site a solar project covering more than 3,000 acres near the former Friendsville Mine, County Commissioner Rob Dean posted profane messages on Facebook directed at residents who questioned the county’s decision.
During Monday’s county board meeting, Dean also expressed displeasure with Mount Carmel Mayor Joe Judge for liking a Facebook post opposing the solar project. In response, Judge clarified that he had only liked the post to acknowledge being tagged, not as an endorsement of the message.
On Tuesday, Dean returned to social media, again using profane language to challenge opponents of the solar farm, suggesting that those who disagree with the decision should run for office. The comments have since been deleted.
Currently, five candidates are seeking the county commissioner seat held by Scott West, who is not seeking re-election in 2026. Dean’s own seat on the county board will not be up for election until 2028.