Wind energy standards: See the big picture

Permitting industrial wind turbines as special use in Ag-1 zoning is a concession allowing activities not normally approved because they are a nuisance or harmful to surrounding people and properties.

Granting special use is a privilege given, not a right to be demanded. Answering Illinois Farm Bureau’s question, “No, local officials aren’t adequately prepared if they must set standards pending approval of the self-interested wind industry.”

The Lee County Zoning Board of Appeals met to discuss setbacks for wind turbines. None attending could answer why 1,400 feet is appropriate – the number Florida Light and Power provided Lee County with all its other recommendations for current ordinances.

Setbacks are imposed to prevent nuisances and protect people and nature from activities that threaten health, safety and existing property rights. Eighteen months of testimony provided ample justification for substantially longer setbacks, but who’s listening?

Current sound thresholds came by recommendation of the GSG wind company.

Proposed decommissioning, noise, flicker, and setback standards come courtesy of Ireland’s Mainstream Renewable Energies, the firm seeking to build wind turbines across Lee, Whiteside and Bureau counties.

Anyone see a pattern? Seems like foxes writing plans for chicken house security.

The feds, in their haste to promote turbines across the U.S., allow turbines installed in the field, courtesy of huge taxpayer subsidies, without the vetting process, including studies, tests, inspections, reviews and oversight normally given such large-scale industrial development.

Wind industry gets a pass on scrutiny normally demanded by OSHA, EPA, Department of Defense, Federal Aviation Administration, conservation, National Institutes of Health, and quality assurance programs that American manufacturers comply with to protect consumer health and safety.

Foreign companies controlling future development of America’s heartland have neither the standards nor the interest necessary to protect our quality of life or well-being.

Note to readers – Bob Logan is village president of Franklin Grove and a candidate for Lee County Board, District 2.