October 28, 2014
Michigan

Planners to act on wind park tonight

By Chris Aldridge Tribune Staff Writer | Huron Daily Tribune | October 28, 2014 | www.michigansthumb.com

MEADE TOWNSHIP – Landowners, leaseholders and non-participants are invited again to take part in deciding whether to approve an area for wind energy development in Meade Township.

Planners are expected to make the decision tonight at a 7 p.m. Meade Township hall meeting, at 2119 W. Filion Road.

If made, the recommendation will be forwarded to the Meade Township board, which is expected to make a final decision at its Nov. 10 meeting.

DTE Energy plans for about 50 wind turbines between Meade and Colfax townships.

Announced in July as a $250 million, 58-turbine and 100-megawatt park bringing nearly 200 new jobs, it would power the utility to 10.2 percent of the 10 percent renewable energy goal utilities must meet by 2015.

The park would bring an estimated $4 million in tax revenue to Meade Township in a 20-year period, according to DTE officials.

DTE says it has not obtained a contractor or building permits

Residents have the opportunity to share opinions and concerns regarding DTE’s request for an overlay district, which designates areas within a county deemed suitable for construction of a wind park but does not automatically guarantee developers the right to build.

And if you plan on attending, arrive early. Past meetings have been standing room only, with the most recent drawing about 125 people. Twenty-six residents signed up for three-minute time slots to speak at the nearly four-hour meeting.

Those who want to exclude their property from the proposed overlay district also may inform township officials tonight. After a decision on the overlay district has been made, a $150 special meeting fee applies for those still wanting their property excluded. DTE says it will honor all such requests.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2014/10/28/planners-to-act-on-wind-park-tonight/