Wind energy farm heated topic at Yankton County Commission meeting
KVHT News|Kelli Achenbach|Aug 7, 2024
The Yankton County Commission meeting overflowed with attendees during the first reading of a proposed wind energy ordinance. The ordinance, if passed, would halt the NextEra wind project in Mayfield and Turkey Valley townships.
The Yankton County Commission meeting overflowed with attendees during the first reading of a proposed wind energy ordinance. The ordinance, if passed, would halt the NextEra wind project in Mayfield and Turkey Valley townships.
The Yankton County Commission meeting overflowed with attendees during the first reading of a proposed wind energy ordinance.
The ordinance, if passed, would halt the NextEra wind project in Mayfield and Turkey Valley townships.
Most attendees opposed the project, citing concerns about quality of life, health, wildlife, property values, and rights.
The ordinance proposes a two-mile setback from dwellings. That, according to NextEra officials, effectively stops the project.
Public comments lasted nearly two hours, and focused on environmental protection and community impact.
Some speakers suggested setbacks of five miles, while others noted negative health effects of wind turbines.
A participating landowner supported the ordinance for its …
... more [truncated due to possible copyright]The Yankton County Commission meeting overflowed with attendees during the first reading of a proposed wind energy ordinance.
The ordinance, if passed, would halt the NextEra wind project in Mayfield and Turkey Valley townships.
Most attendees opposed the project, citing concerns about quality of life, health, wildlife, property values, and rights.
The ordinance proposes a two-mile setback from dwellings. That, according to NextEra officials, effectively stops the project.
Public comments lasted nearly two hours, and focused on environmental protection and community impact.
Some speakers suggested setbacks of five miles, while others noted negative health effects of wind turbines.
A participating landowner supported the ordinance for its decommissioning safeguards. Allegations of bribery surfaced but were addressed by Commission Chair John Marquardt, clarifying a declined $10,000 donation from NextEra to the ambulance department.
After lengthy discussions and public agitation, the commissioners decided to continue the ordinance discussion at its next meeting.