Wind turbine ordinance altered

CLINTON - During the second reading and action of an amendment to the zoning ordinance concerning wind towers and turbines during the Clinton County Board of Supervisors' meeting, a county resident and businessmen voiced concerns and additional information concerning wind farms.

This amendment changes the setback for wind turbines and meteorological towers from the nearest residence, school, hospital, church or public library to 1,200 feet, an increase from the originally-stated 1,000 feet. The audible noise due to C-WECS sites operations will be reduced from 60 dBA to 50 dBA.

"We have increased the setback and we've reduced the amount of noise allowed," said Chairman Dennis Starling.

Clinton County resident Peter Clausen said while he applauded the board for making these changes, he is still concerned about how his property will be affected by the presence of wind towers and turbines. He said he feels this restricts what he will be able to do with his land and where he will be able to build.

Starling told Clausen the ordinance currently does not restrict how close a residence can be built to an existing turbine. The ordinance prevents a turbine from building too close to a residence. A residence, however, can be built as closely to an existing turbine as the owner wishes.

"I don't want to be next to them. I want them as far back as possible," said Clausen, adding, "My concern is it affects my recreational enjoyment of my property by the placement of those wind turbines." He said while he appreciates the jobs this project can bring to the community, he does not want them in his back yard.

"Quite frankly, that's been the dilemma, in the whole situation because you've got the farmers, and some acreage of people, not just farmers, but you've got individuals that are excited about bringing this to their property and that type of thing. So their enthusiasm level is there. And you have those, I'm like you (Clausen), ‘What have they done to my personal property rights?'" said Supervisor Jill Davisson.

Starling said when technological advances can benefit the environment or the community, someone will be adversely affected. He said a price may be paid, but the question is if it is necessary.

James Law, president of Solar Wind, 302 22nd Ave. North, Suite A, also addressed the board. He pointed out that a whole other classification of wind turbines, vertical turbines, had been left out of the ordinance. He said these turbines, often seen in urban areas, are attached to buildings or placed behind them.

He said he felt these types of turbines should be addressed as well as not needing the same restrictions as the larger, louder, horizontal turbines.

"This is something that needs to be addressed. We need to address it," said Starling, adding, "The thing to do is to bring it to our Zoning Commissioner and have him look at it. He can bring it before the board and we will do what, I shouldn't say have to do, but we will certainly consider any ordinances to bring this technology in."

The current amendment to the zoning ordinance was approved.