Ordinance should protect citizens
Sun Journal, www.sunjournal.com 9 June 2011
As a former selectman of Rumford, I will vote “no” on the Rumford wind ordinance. I believe it puts Rumford in financial danger. There is no protection from lawsuits; no money up front for decommissioning or community benefits; and too many loopholes.
Rumford selectmen were split 3-2, and the new ordinance raises noise levels, reduces the safety setback, provides no free electricity and allows towers up to 450 feet tall.
Other wind farms in the nation make electricity rates increase by more than 20 percent.
In June, there will be a new board of selectmen. A “no” vote will give them time to craft an ordinance that protects the citizens of Rumford and not give such a sweet deal to a taxpayer-funded business.
I hope other residents will join me in voting “no” on June 14.
Eddie Shurtleff, Rumford
URL to article: https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/06/09/ordinance-should-protect-citizens/