August 2, 2016
Kansas

Towers approved to measure wind

By Josh Arnett, Staff Writer | McPherson Sentinel | Aug. 2, 2016 | www.mcphersonsentinel.com

The McPherson County Commission approved two special use permits for meteorological towers near Canton during its Monday meeting.

The towers will be located near the intersections of Kiowa Road and 30th Avenue, and Navajo Road and 25th Avenue. Each will stand about 197 feet tall and remain in place for at least a year, and up to five years.

These towers will measure wind conditions and other factors to determine whether the area is suitable for the construction of a wind farm.

Tower Associates, LLC, which is putting in the towers, said this is the first step in determining whether a wind farm will come to that part of McPherson County.

Future hearings will be held if a wind farm is pursued. Anyone who objects to the meteorological towers can submit a protest at the district court within 30 days.

The commission also approved updated bylaws for the planning and zoning commission. These updates include designating seasonal start times – 7 p.m. during spring and summer, and 6 p.m. for fall and winter – as well as designating the regular meeting place as the county public works building, 1115 Ave. A.

The commission approved $5,175 for research assistance, and discussed the sale of county right-of-way at 14th Avenue and Pioneer Road.

Commissioners approved hiring a legal assistant and diversion coordinator for the county attorney’s office. This hire fills all the department’s vacancies.

They also approved an end-of-introductory request for a communications technician with county emergency management and communications. The department still has one opening to be filled.

URL to article:  https://www.wind-watch.org/news/2016/08/02/towers-approved-to-measure-wind/