I recently read a July 25, 2006 article in this paper by Wayne Hunt, where he characterizes those in the Town who question the validity of moving forward with the Wind Power project as chickens. Initially I took offense at this comparison, but upon further reflection, it has some validity. As “Farmer Hunt” frightens his chickens as he approaches them, I feel you gentlemen have frighten many of us as we were not brought into the discussion process about Wind Power until the project was well advanced. Leases were signed, the DEIS was almost fully completed when this project was first made public. I attended many Town Board Meetings over the last two years and no mention was made that the “Town Fathers” were considering this type of project. When it did finally become public, notification was made by posting at selected locations. It would have been far better if in addition a mailing was made to each house in the Town with the appropriate information. I understand that it was stated that the Town could not afford the cost of a mailing. On an issue as critical to the welfare of the Town as this, it would seem that money could have been obtained in some manner. If no other way were available, you could have requested that UPC bear the cost, as they were willing to do so to send out a mailing when it suited their timetable. This secrecy, whether intentional or not, lead to much wild speculation as to why this happened and did not give people sufficient time to adjust to this project prior to the Public Hearings for the DEIS and the revised Zoning Ordinances.
As “Farmer Hunt” finally coaxes his chickens out of hiding by an offering of food, so did the Town Supervisor of the Town where the Tug Hill project is located by obtaining funds for the project of approximately $12,000 per tower per year, while Farmer Hunt is only offering us chickens somewhat less than $4000 per tower per year for a total of $160,000 per year. With increased roadway maintenance and security costs, care will have to be taken to be sure that the Wind Tower project does not end up costing the Town money. If the Zoning Ordinance is not revised to require UPC to indemnify and hold harmless the Town from any legal action arising out of this project, taxes will likely have to be increased just to cover this cost.
If indeed we who differ with Mr. Hunt in opinion of Wind Power can be characterized as chickens, I suggest that your actions are similar to ostriches who stick their heads in the ground rather than seeing what is going on in their surroundings. There were three or four very informative meetings put on by Cohocton Wind Watch, which only were given token attendance by you gentlemen. While it is true that several people became somewhat emotional during their statements, there was much good information provided by the main speakers. Unfortunately this emotionalism is the result of many people feeling that their way of life and properties are threatened. This seems to be particularly true of those who live in the close proximity of the proposed project. Although these meetings are complete, there is still much useful information on the web. I would suggest that you look at this information rather than just reading that information which is in agreement with your own views. It should be born in mind that the DEIS was developed for and paid by UPC and therefore may be slanted.
The original justification for this project was the money that would be provided to the Town. As this sum now is only $160,000, the current justification for advancing the project is now that it would be good for the people of the State of New York that we provide sites for generating this renewable source of electricity. The point was made at the July 26, 2006 YES meeting that generating power near the source where it is to be used is a good thing for the grid. I agree, but it my understanding that Western New York already is supplying more than they need, but the need is in New York City and surrounding areas. Using this analogy power should be generated in that area. It was suggested that photoelectric cells on roof tops could contribute and I recently read something about building offshore wind towers. These suggestions would seem to fit better into the needs of the grid.
In a previous article Mr. Hunt indicated his concern that if the Wind Tower project were defeated in Cohocton, it would make it that much more difficult for any project in the Finger Lakes Region to be approved. I do not look at this negatively; in fact I believe that we have a responsibility to do just that. The Finger Lakes with all its beautiful lakes and vineyards is a national treasure which is irreplaceable. Just the visual affect on the region from a wind towers project would have a far reaching impact.
It is my feeling, based upon comments at the last Public Meeting Hearing, that you are representing the will of the minority of the voters. Although it would be impossible to run this Town as a pure democracy where all decisions are made by the public, I feel that this issue will have such a significant affect on the Town for twenty years or more, that it should be put to a binding vote by all of the property owners. I feel this is too important an issue to remain in the hands of five people, no matter how good their intentions. Putting this issue to a vote would also help to disseminate the negative feelings that are developing between the pro and anti groups in that the will of the majority would be followed.
I hope you gentlemen will take this article as it was meant, as constructive criticism and not as an attack on any of you personally. As stated previously, I attended a number of Town Meeting over the last several years and was impressed by the service each of you provides the Town. I just feel that you are going down the wrong path on this issue and hope that you will listen to different viewpoints and not just those who are in agreement with yours. Whether you like it or not this project is so significant that it will be your legacy after you complete your terms of office, so you want to be sure that it is indeed the will of the voters and it is truly in their best interests.
Paul Gettys
North Cohocton
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