August 17, 2011
Nova Scotia

Wind-farm setbacks spin relief for Jeddore residents

JENNIFER TAPLIN, METRO HALIFAX, www.metronews.ca 17 August 2011

A Jeddore resident was happily surprised yesterday that his voice and those of his neighbours were heard loud and clear at HRM council.

Several Jeddore residents are opposed to a wind farm in their area, and they spoke out at a recent public hearing seeking input on new rules for wind turbines in the HRM.

HRM staff returned to council yesterday with a compromise including moving the distance between large turbines and buildings in rural areas from 550 metres to 750 metres.

But Coun. Steve Streatch said that didn’t go far enough.

He moved to send it back to staff for another report, but this time change it to 1,000 metres and look into holding public hearings for any proposed wind farms.

His motion passed, but not easily.

“I won’t support 1,000 metres … and I have trouble with the public engagement,” said Coun. Russell Walker.

He said it bears resemblance to cell towers – nobody wants it in their backyard.

“To me this issue cries out for provincewide legislation,” said Coun. Bob Harvey, adding the HRM is “setbacking” wind turbines out of business.

Alastair Saunders of Jeddore said he was happy with the 1,000-metre setback.

“We’re really pleased that council has listened to the concerns of the people. We were really worried we would be the last residents of HRM who would have an opportunity to make our views known to council,” Saunders told reporters yesterday.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2011/08/17/wind-farm-setbacks-spin-relief-for-jeddore-residents/