Our group, Calumet County Citizens for Responsible Energy, is in favor of 1,000-foot property setbacks, not against renewable energy. We understand and support the need for a renewable energy source. But the county board has been provided with a significant amount of information on health-related issues caused by wind turbines and citizen concerns to find an overall fair solution.
We aren’t against wind energy. We’re seeking modifications in our current ordinance to ensure that these projects are done responsibly.
The Oct. 30 board meeting resulted in a tie vote, which was based on erroneous maps provided by the county Planning and Zoning Committee. The maps indicated there weren’t any sites available if 1,000-foot setbacks from all property lines were implemented.
On Nov. 2, Ken Pabich issued a letter and revised maps to the board, showing 41 appropriate sites of more than a half-acre in size each. Also, more sites are available because neighboring landowners have the option to waive the setback to put up turbines.
Some participating property owners argue their right to put up a turbine is taken away with 1,000-foot setbacks, because not everyone can put up turbines. The county has residents other than the participating landowners and there needs to be a compromise that benefits everyone affected.
The wind companies continue to say that this area is an excellent site for wind energy because of the high speeds. If they want to build here, they should be excited about the 41 sites found by Pabich in the Chilton and Stockbridge areas.
It’s important our citizens voice their concerns about this ordinance and contact government leaders to get this setback in place. For more information, contact CCCRE at 920-849-2840.
Martha and Daryn Woelfel, Chilton
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2006/11/30/citizens-want-turbine-issue-addressed-soon/