Local residents oppose wind farm in their backyards

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By Danica Lawrence

Summary

Many residents near the Ririe Reservoir oppose Ridgeline Energy building a wind farm in close proximity to them.

Story Published: Jul 28, 2010 at 10:57 PM MDT

Story Updated: Jul 28, 2010 at 10:57 PM MDT

Local residents oppose wind farm in their backyards
BONNEVILLE COUNTY - More than 50 people packed a room in the Bonneville County Court House Wednesday night to attend a public hearing about the Meadow Creek Wind Farm project that Ridgeline Energy wants to build. There would be 75 400-foot high windmills built northeast of Idaho Falls near the Ririe Reservoir.

Some residents who live in that area, are upset over losing their scenic views.

Ridgeline Energy spoke to the county planning and zoning officials first, explaining building the Meadow Creek Wind farm complies with the county ordinances.

Then dozens of residents, who live near where the wind farm will be built, voiced their concerns, from health hazards, including sound and vibrations, to destroying their scenic views and recreational area.

The residents appeared to have done a lot of research about their property value dropping if wind turbines go up near their homes but Ridgeline Energy has documents from the county assessor saying, past wind farms within the area have not dropped home owners property value.

The meeting continued after 10 p.m. We will bring you the latest as soon as it ends.

Eating healthier

Several local school districts have changed their cafeteria menus to healthier fare. What about you? Are you eating healthier than you used to?

  • Yes. I've made big changes in my diet. More fruits and veggies and less fried foods. I feel much better as a result.
  • Sort of. I made changes in my diet for awhile, but it never seemed to do much good. I've gone back to the way I used to eat.
  • I haven't made any changes, but I've always eaten a very healthy diet.
  • No. I eat what I want to eat and I don't worry about it.