Residents of Monroe County:
     
The development of commercial wind farms is on the agenda.

A public hearing will be held Tuesday, Jan. 10, Sparta Courthouse, at 7:30 p.m., regarding the ordinance for the development of commercial wind farms in Monroe County. This concerns every resident.

Initiated by Invenergy LLC, Chicago, the current proposal by Summit Ridge Energy Corporation (Landowners have signed easement/contracts with this corporation) would establish a commercial wind farm located in the towns of Tomah, Wilton, Ridgeville, Wells and Jefferson. It would consist of 40 to 53 turbines up to 450 feet high. They will be connected with underground power lines going from tower to tower, covering approximately 25 miles across the ridge. Underground or overhead transmission lines will conduct power from the last turbine in a line to a substation. This project is designed to be in place 30 to 40 years.

Currently this is an area known for agriculture, rural residential and recreational. Following the guidelines in the ordinance, commercial wind farms will change the character of the ridge and of the county. Is this acceptable? Will land values be affected? Do economic advantages outweigh any problems that may develop?

Monroe County residents need to be involved. Come to the public hearing to share your thoughts.