(KNZA)--The Doniphan County Commission has turned down a zoning change request that would have allowed for the establishment and operation of a new electrical substation on property located at 1027 Sheridan Road in Wathena.

Following a hearing Tuesday, the commission voted unanimously to accept the recommendation of the Doniphan County Regional Planning Commission to deny the zoning change due to the characteristics of the existing neighborhood and the detrimental effect on neighboring property.

According to the unofficial meeting minutes, seven adjoining property owners spoke during the hearing in opposition to the request for the zoning amendment.

An Evergy representative said the new substation is needed because the current substation is outdated.

County commissioners were told Evergy had five properties to consider for the new substation and the property at 1027 Sheridan Road was identified as the top location based on its proximity to the existing substation and willingness of the landowner to sell.