Huron, NY, resolution against Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project 

Town of Huron, Wayne County Town Board Resolution Opposing the Proposed Offshore Wind Power Initiative for the Great Lakes of the New York State Power Authority

WHEREAS, the New York Power Authority (“NYPA”) issued both a Request for Expression of Interest (“RFEI”) and a Request for Proposals (“RFP”) for the potential development of wind power projects int eh New York State waters of Lake Erie and Lake Ontario, known as the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project; and

WHEREAS, insufficient research has been undertaken to indicate that the generation of wind power in the waters of the Great Lakes will significantly impact the reliance of the United States on petroleum products; and

WHEREAS, wind power is currently dependent on an extensive government subsidy program; and

WHEREAS, the development of wind power int eh waters of the Great Lakes may have a dramatically negative effect on the property values of lakefront properties; and

WHEREAS, the development of wind power in the waters of the Great Lakes may seriously impede the migration of birds through the Great Lakes area, in what is known as the North American Flyway; and

WHEREAS, the development of wind power in the waters of the Great Lakes will have a negative impact on the aesthetic value of two of New York’s most valuable natural resources, Lake Ontario and Lake Erie; and

WHEREAS, the development of wind power in the waters of the Great Lakes may negatively impact the aquatic life in the area around the wind turbines; and

WHEREAS, the development of wind power in the waters of the Great Lakes will negatively impact the recreational and commercial boating and fishing industries; and

WHEREAS, the lakefront municipalities which will be most impacted by the development of wind power in the Great Lakes should have more control over the development and approval of off-shore wind projects which would so greatly affect their communities; and

WHEREAS, abundant land is available for development of wind power which may have less environmental impacts;

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Town of Huron adamantly opposes the development of the Great Lakes Offshore Wind Project; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that a copy of this Resolution be forwarded to the Governor and the President of NYPA.

Signed Dec. 21 and 30, 2009.