WASHINGTON

In its approval of a draft for a Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS) ordinance, by 3-2 vote with Yoder and Young opposed, the Washington County supervisors first agreed to modifications in Section 6, requirements for non-commercial Wind Energy Conversion Systems regarding setbacks from property boundaries and for the base of a wind tower. Specifically, setbacks for the towers would be three times the height of the tower, from base to blades.

The revised final draft is to be on next week’s agenda when a public hearing also will be set, followed by three full readings of the ordinance. Indications are it would become effective in October.

Prior to the vote, the board discussed rights for landowners not involved in the WECS, the property valuation guarantee in the draft, and environmental impact of the operations.

Supervisor Marcus Fedler stressed that the “wind farms” are not aural farms but industrial power producing plants near “backyards.” However, he acknowledged that while a state law regulating the operations is coming, local management is needed now.

During the discussions, supervisors noted that conversations with county residents show an approximate 50-50 stance regarding approval and disapproval. Even more, in regard to counties with or considering such operations, rules “are all over the place.”

A big concern is the height of the towers. Second is the decommissioning, roughly based on an estimated 20-year life span for the units. Third is the environmental impact in the form of blades killing bats and birds, including eagles. Environmental groups have kept a literal count of the dead animals in the areas of the WECS.

There was more agreement on the 4-1 (Yoder opposed) vote to disband the county Compensation Board while acknowledging, if needed, it could easily be reconvened. During the discussion it was noted that even with the committee recommendations, the final decision regarding setting salaries for elected officials was with the supervisors.

It was equally noted that many residents said they knew little about the committee or the process. However, even without the committee, the process will remain similar with a report on budget needs, salary levels and public discussions at board meetings. It also was noted that all county departments are not alike, that duties and challenges vary greatly, even year by year.

As a result, all agreed that complete and accurate information about operations is needed, which, as observed by the county sheriff, the supervisors receive information on a regular basis.

In other business, the board approved Seth Adam as Conservation Department ranger technician at $30.20 hourly, effective May 8, and acknowledged the $150 donation to the county K-9 unit from Cassandra J. Bolton. Sheriff Jared Schneider noted such donations have greatly aided the unit, providing funds to aid with equipment purchases and training.

The board also learned that ongoing meetings with Carl A Nelson for the Old Orchard Administrative Offices relocation are proceeding, and final plans and bids documents should be ready by the end of this year, reported Fedler.