Opinions
The two turbines proposed for Fairhaven's Little Bay would be about 750 feet from the nearest home, which is within the standards established by the Massachusetts Technology Collaborative but closer than many existing turbines in other states.
As long as humans use electricity, they will live near the facilities that make it. Our neighbors in Somerset live near the Brayton Point power plant, one of the largest sources of air pollution in New England.
Fairhaven has a critical decision to make regarding the construction of turbines on town-owned land.
Anyone who spends time on SouthCoast's beaches, bays, and coves knows how the wind whips off the water. With all that clean energy for the taking, the region has a responsibility to harness it - if not in Little Bay, then somewhere.
The problem in Fairhaven is the divisiveness of closed minds. Some people on either side of the Little Bay wind turbine issue are so entrenched in their positions that they are unwilling to entertain any facts that might change their minds.
All Fairhaven residents have a duty to learn more about the proposal. Those who did not attend last night's informational meeting still have good opportunities to learn more.
Town Meeting members can participate in the organized trip to Hull's turbines on Saturday; residents who are not elected members of Town Meeting can talk to a Town Meeting member or make the drive themselves.
Closer to home, albeit with a smaller turbine, is Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Bourne. Spokesman Christopher Ryan says visitors are welcome to walk right up to the turbine and see what it's like.
Residents should also take a look at the video expected to be released today by opponents of the Little Bay project on their Web site, WindWiseFairhaven.com . It will document complaints of people who live near the Hull turbines.
As Tuesday's Town Meeting approaches, everyone who cares about the Little Bay project should study the arguments and keep an open mind
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