Filling what it argues is a void in the state's vetting of wind-power projects, the town of Union is marking its turf with a proposed ordinance essentially outlawing such projects.

"I think the state of Wisconsin has shown it's going to do what (wind-farm development) companies want," said Tom Alisankus, Union municipal judge and resident. "I think they look at these big wind-farm projects and just hope there won't be enough resistance at the local level to slow them down.

"But I think they'll find there's fight in some of these places, and Union is one of them."

Elgin, Ill.-based EcoEnergy Engineering LLC wants to build three turbines generating 4.5 megawatts, far below the 100 megawatt limit required for state approval. The three towers in Union would provide new power to Evansville Water & Light Department customers.

The Plan Commission last week recommended an ordinance requiring half-mile setbacks from property lines for wind-farm... [continue via Web link]