October 26, 2015
Rhode Island

Turbine amendment on docket in Coventry

By Jeremiah Ryan | October 26, 2015 | www.ricentral.com

COVENTRY- There are currently 10 wind turbines approved for construction in Coventry, as the town looks for ways to save on energy costs for its municipal buildings, and a moratorium is currently in place against the building of any more.

Tonight, though, there will be a discussion of an amendment to the ordinance that passed enacting the moratorium.

While the Coventry Town Council meeting this evening has several noteworthy items on the agenda, it is the final one that could raise an eyebrow.

After discussing the ordinance and tabling a hearing at their meeting on September 14, the council will revisit it tonight, according to an agenda posted Friday on the Secretary of State’s website.

There are some, though, who see this as a violation of several laws, most notably a section of the Coventry Home Rule Charter.

“Having a meeting for, and voting on, the wind amendment this evening would be procedurally and substantively defective,” Representative from Wind Energy Development, Stephen Brusini said in an email to Town Council President Glen Shibley obtained by the Daily Times, “and any vote taken would be improper, invalid and subject to immediate appeal.”

Brusini pointed to Rhode Island General Law and outlined three failures of the council that could lead to any action being valid.
For the complete story, pick up a copy of the Kent County Daily Times.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2015/10/26/turbine-amendment-on-docket-in-coventry/