March 27, 2013
Alberta

Council favours the delay of wind turbine project

By: Derek Clouthier | Posted: Wednesday, Mar 27, 2013 | Cochrane Eagle | www.cochraneeagle.com

Cochrane council unanimously voted in favour of developing a renewable energy framework for the purpose of providing direction for projects like the wind turbine at Cochrane High School (CHS).

The move means the town will submit an application to Rocky View Schools (RVS) asking for them to delay their own application to the Alberta Utilities Commission to have the wind turbine erected at the high school.

Mayor Truper McBride said the creation of an energy framework would ‘fill holes in the town’s land-use bylaw’ and provide an opportunity for council to have a role in how projects like the wind turbine move forward in the future.

Both McBride and councillor Jeff Toews recognized the residents who live in the area, particularly the No Turbine in Town Coalition (NTT), which has worked to bring this matter and their concerns to the public eye.

“Your drive and perseverance should be commended,” said Toews, adding that the group can rest assured that ‘they were heard.’

Councillor Tara McFadden said council needs the opportunity to discuss renewable energy projects and determine what best fits Cochrane.

McFadden also questioned whether the public would have the chance to provide input into this matter.

McBride said that because this new framework would be part of the town’s strategic planning process, the public would be able to provide feedback.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2013/03/27/council-favours-the-delay-of-wind-turbine-project/