August 26, 2010
Virginia

Botetourt County strikes down BP tower

Elizabeth Harrington, Reporter, www.wdbj7.com 25 August 2010

BOTETOURT COUNTY, Va – BP loses in Botetourt County.

The company was seeking a special exceptions permit to keep a wind tower standing off Route 622. On Tuesday, the Board of Supervisors voted against it 4 to 1.

BP’s project manager for this meteorological tower says they’re exploring their options after the vote.

The company can appeal the vote to Circuit Court.

The nearly 200 foot tall tower was erected off Route 622 in April 2009. But BP never notified the county or got a permit. The tower violates current height restrictions.

The project angered a lot of people. They’re concerned about BP’s plans. The tower is collecting data to determine the potential for a future wind farm.

Many residents spoke out against the project during Botetourt’s Board of Supervisors meeting. Board member Billy Martin, Sr. says they voted in the public’s favor.

Also, the county and public questioned why BP never sought a permit for the tower. BP did follow the rules for both Wise and Tazewell counties where it plans to build a wind farm.

Botetourt County’s vote means the tower needs to be removed. But if BP appeals the vote, the tower can stay up and continue collecting data in Botetourt County until there’s a decision.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2010/08/26/botetourt-county-strikes-down-bp-tower/