Story Published: Jul 29, 2010 at 6:31 PM MDT
Story Updated: Jul 29, 2010 at 6:31 PM MDT
This is the second time Ridgeline Energy submitted their Meadow Creek Project to the county. Last time, it was approved, then appealed by residents in May. Anne Detrick spoke passionately to board members about why she doesn't want the wind turbines. She lives within a mile of where they would be built.
"It was very important to us that they admitted they did not critically look at the information at the last meeting, that they made their decision without a good evaluation of the issues, they basically took Ridgeline at its word without looking at the details," says Anne Detrick.
That was Detrick's goal last night, to force the county to delay their approval of Ridgeline Energy's application and have the members admit they made a mistake the first time around.
"It means a lot that they are willing to take the time and be aware that there is so much more to this issue for Bonneville County," says Detrick.
If Ridgeline Energy's Project does get approved, the county would receive more than a million dollars in property taxes each year. But Anne's point is people looking to buy property here might look elsewhere if they see 75 wind turbines in their backyards. Therefore, deterring them away, and the county losing that money.
Ridgeline Energy told me it's pleased the county taking its time to review last night's opinions, but feels confident their wind farm application will be approved.
The next public hearing is scheduled for August 25.