Wind energy proposal causing friction in Blaine
HAILEY — When it comes to green energy and sustainability, the Wood River Valley often likes to think it’s ahead of the Idaho curve.
At a Tuesday hearing about a proposed wind energy ordinance, some residents questioned the reality of that commitment.
Rich Carlson of the Idaho Rural Council brought a photo of a turbine at Jerome Middle School, saying he has heard from area parents that they enjoy looking at it as they wait for school to let out.
“These are common elsewhere,” he said. “We’re wondering why Blaine County is behind the city of Jerome.”
The county looks close to approving an ordinance that would allow noncommercial turbines up to 40 feet tall on most lots in the county except the mountain overlay district (which includes many hillsides) and the county’s scenic corridor. That corridor is defined as anything that can be seen from five feet above the centerline of Idaho Highway 75 from Glendale Road north.
For lots larger than five acres, the county’s planning staff would approve the application for a turbine. For lots smaller than five acres, a conditional use permit would be required, which involves public hearings.
“What I don’t want to do is allow for these wind generators to go up where there is going to be strong negative reaction,” said Commissioner Larry Schoen. “If we’re going to allow this, we want it to be successful, and part of success is community acceptance.”
At their last hearing, commissioners heard strong reaction that the scenic corridor be protected from towers.
On Tuesday, it was mostly proponents of wind power who spoke, suggesting that the world aesthetic is changing and that there are many residents who would regard the turbines with pride.
Others said that if Blaine County is a green energy leader, that would attract green tourism and future residents who want to live in a green community.
“Thinking out progressively, I see anything we do to create our own energy is a benefit to a property. In the future, it’ll cost more to bring energy long-distance in,” said Karen McCall. “It’s an emotional plea to look at the bigger picture and think beyond ourselves.”
Representing the Sawtooth Board of Realtors, Bob Crosby said he has heard from many people who wish to protect the scenic corridor. “We’re in favor of alternative energy, let’s just put it in the right place,” he said.
The commissioners are expected to revisit the issue at 2 p.m. on Nov. 24.
By Ariel Hansen
Times-News
21 November 2009
Tags: Wind power, Wind energy
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