A property owner was denied by the Schuylkill County Zoning Hearing Board to install two windmills on his property to generate electricity for his home and business on grounds he failed to prove the safety of the items.

The decision was handed down at the monthly meeting of the board held Thursday evening at the courthouse in Pottsville.

Richard Withelder, 88 West Donaldson Street, Reilly Township, wanted to install three wind turbines, each about 68 feet in height to be used as a renewable energy source. He claimed the wind turbines were small units designed specifically for residential applications. He said his main goal was to lower the electric bill for his commercial business operated from his home.

The board noted the county ordinance does contain language allowing for renewable energy sources in Manufacturing and Conservation Mining Districts but limits the maximum height to 15 feet. Withelder's proposed wind turbine height was 65 feet.

The board further ruled the applicant has failed to show that the property has any unique physical circumstances or conditions, including irregularity, narrowness, or shallowness of lot size or shape, or exceptional topographical or other physical conditions peculiar to the property. Also, that he has failed to show that he has been caused a hardship. Two neighbors opposed the plan, claiming there are dangers existing from ice being slinged from the blades and it obstructs their view.

The board ruled that the protesters objections were credible and that the picture presented showed the wind turbines are not aesthetically pleasing and are not something an adjoining property owner should have to look at when outside or when looking out the window.

The board commented, "While renewable energy is important and perhaps in their infinite wisdom, the county commissioners will adopt language permitting such wind turbines, under the requirements of an ordinance which is currently being written."