Avon planners recommend OK for wind turbines

AVON -- With an eye on the future of alternative energy, Planning Commission recommended to council the approval of an ordinance allowing wind turbines in the city.

If passed, wind turbines of up to 200 feet would be permitted north of Interstate 90, provided they have setbacks equal to the structure's height.

The recommendation comes six months after Renivus, a Cleveland-based wind energy company, approached Avon officials on behalf of potential clients in the city's business community.

Since then, the city deliberated, researched and consulted with Renivus to determine appropriate zoning regulations.

Kristopher McCrone, Renivus' CEO, said his company began approaching area businesses after in-depth research conducted from July through September 2009 showed good results.

"The wind resource in Avon is phenomenal," he said.

Planning Coordinator Jim Piazza said he's all for allowing the turbines in the industrial sector, but clarified that the ordinance would not include residential properties.

"Sustainable energy has the big momentum behind it, mainly because of government incentives," he said.

"But it would still be cost prohibitive for a residential property and that's why we did it north of 90. We didn't want to prohibit it from industry."

However, he thinks the residential issue could be addressed in the future.

"We'll keep it open," he said. "Keep an eye on technology. We're just trying to protect everybody."

Council members are expected to vote on the ordinance April 5.