Illinois, Bureau County, and my neighbors sold my property rights to the wind farm. The proposed wind farm in which my property is included has control of my privately owned property. I have to ask for permission to build a house or a barn on my own land.

I’ve been to informational and zoning meetings and was never told my property rights were compromised or that I’d be restricted on my own land usage. I didn’t sign a gag order or sign my rights away, nor was I compensated for the loss of freedom to use my property as I wish.

Looking to build a home, I called the Bureau County Zoning Office to see what was needed in permits, expecting to learn setback rules for a house because we are in the proposed Walnut Ridge Wind Farm. I was told all the standards; clear it with zoning, clear it with neighbors, but I also have to get permission from the wind farm.