Council questions proposed wind rules

One day, constructing a wind turbine in your Casper backyard might be as easy as building a shed.

For now, it's a more complicated process, and if some Casper City Council members have their say it may stay that way.

The Casper City Council discussed a new ordinance in a recent work session that would outline specific rules for personal wind turbines that could be in the city limits.

Some council members support the idea, and said the proposed regulations are specific enough to cover possible problems. Other members worry about the impact wind turbines could have in neighborhoods.

"I don't like wind turbines in the city," said Casper Mayor Paul Bertoglio. "There's nothing in this ordinance to allow neighbors to object."

Bertoglio argued there are many lots in Casper large enough to support a wind turbine, and isn't sure Casper residents are prepared for turbines in everyone's backyards.

"Is the city ready for this view?" he asked.

The proposed ordinance reads that a wind turbine cannot be on a piece of property smaller than 20,000 square feet, or, roughly one-half acre. The ordinance also outlines distance from a property line, building and parking areas.

Council member Guy Padgett said he's pleased the city's planning office is looking ahead toward Casper's future.

"We talk about energy independence," Padgett said, adding that individual wind turbines are one way to work to achieve that goal.

As more people approach the city with requests to construct wind turbines, it will be important for the city to have set regulations, Padgett said. Any applications right now must gain approval from the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Council member Maury Daubin worried about the sound produced from the turbines.

The proposed ordinance caps the sound at 60 decibels, said Community Development Director April Getchius, which is similar to an air conditioner about 20 feet away.

"If we are going to be putting these on lots we need to get a feel of where the community is on this," Daubin said.

Council member and former state Legislator Tom Walsh said this is an important time for communities and the state.

Much of Wyoming's revenue comes from severance taxes on natural resources, many of which are limited. Wind, on the other hand, will be here forever.

Walsh wants to see the state begin to look at taxing wind production so communities don't find themselves without primary money sources in the future.

Even though he supports the ordinance, he wondered if now is the right time for the city council to address wind turbines in the city.

The proposed ordinance will go to the city's Planning and Zoning Commission before returning to the city council for vote.