Saturday, July 14, 2007

Bethany latest town to ban wind turbines by Scott DeSmit

BETHANY- Bethany became the third town in Genesee County to ban commercial wind energy systems as board members earlier this week approved an amendment to the zoning laws.

The amendment is similar to the ones approved in the towns of Oakfield and Stafford earlier this year and would allow single, non-commercial wind mills up to 170 feet.

The law, however, would ban commercial towers in any area of the town.

UPC Wind more than three years ago began testing sites in Bethany for wind turbines up to 450 feet high.

The company eventually proposed 40 turbines, sparking numerous town meetings and the formation of a citizens' committee to study the issue.

Oakfield was the first town to ban commercial wind systems, approving a law in January.

Stafford board members unanimously approved a similar law in June.

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