Prior to last Thursday night's DeWitt County Board meeting, which dozens turned out for to hear extensive discussion regarding wind energy ordinances, the DeWitt County Farm Bureau submitted a statement to the Board regarding their opinion on the matter.

 

The Farm Bureau released the following statement:

 

"Recognizing that wind development could potentially have the largest impact on DeWitt County farmland in the future, and recognizing that the process to alter ordinances is complex and lengthy, we respectfully suggest that the DeWitt County Board be deliberate and thoughtful in revising a commercial wind energy conversion ordinance that is respectful of landowners’ rights to both enjoy their properties and use their properties as they wish.

 

"As an organization that represents members who own farms of all sizes and shapes, the DeWitt County Farm Bureau feels it is important to the endurance of our rural neighborhoods to foster coexistence as best possible between those who choose to participate in wind development and those who choose not to.

 

"We agree with the DeWitt County, IL Code Book of Ordinances, part 155.130, section D, point 2, which states that a permitted special use should 'not be injurious to the use and enjoyment of other property in the immediate vicinity.'

 

"We believe the cited point stresses that wind tower setbacks be such that non-participating landowners may still find quality of life, while the rights of participating landowners are respected.

 

"While this is not an easy task, and no determination may suit all parties, it is incumbent upon the DeWitt County Board to carefully study specific setback distances, height, light and/or noise restrictions to provide reasonable accommodations for all landowners, regardless of their position on wind development."

 

The County Board sent back three ordinance reviews back to the Regional Planning Commission, an ordinance recommendation and another half dozen back to the Land Use Committee for review.