December 5, 2012
New York

Town of Poughkeepsie wants a timeout on wind, solar power

Written by John Davis | Poughkeepsie Journal | Dec 5, 2012 | www.poughkeepsiejournal.com

Before the appearance of rooftop windmills and front yard solar panels affects the views in Poughkeepsie, the Town Board wants to call a timeout on their installation.

The proposed eight-month moratorium will give the board time to study how best to regulate the green power energy equipment, Poughkeepsie Supervisor Todd Tancredi said.

“We want to do a timeout and have a look at this and make sure we have everything in place,” he said.

The supervisor said regulations are needed to prevent unsightly alternative energy systems that could “negatively affect the town and property values.”

The Town Board will seek ideas tonight on its proposed Energy Facilities and Systems Moratorium Local Law, which would impose an eight-month moratorium on the installation of wind and solar power facilities.

The possibility of residents installing ground-mounted solar panels and rooftop windmills is especially a concern, Tancredi said.

One homeowner on Earlwood Drive recently got approval from the town’s Zoning Board of Appeals – by a 4-3 vote – to install four solar panels – 10-by-10-foot each – in the front yard.

Karmen Buckey, one zoning board member who voted against issuing the variance, said that while she is in favor of solar energy, she felt in this case the four panels would detract from the appearance of the neighborhood off Boardman Road.

The neighbors themselves were divided on granting the variance when they spoke at a public hearing before the vote.

“A lot of neighbors came out opposed, but there were neighbors who were supportive,” Buckey said.

Doreen Tignanelli, a Colburn Drive resident, said that while she supports the development of more green energy sources, a moratorium on the installation of them is needed to make sure they don’t become eyesores for neighbors.

“While I’m in favor of things like wind power and solar, you have to be considerate of your neighborhood,” she said.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2012/12/05/town-of-poughkeepsie-wants-a-timeout-on-wind-solar-power/