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Commentary
Letters to the Editor
TO THE EDITOR:
The state of Massachusetts is quietly planning to pass the Wind Energy Reform Act to place hundreds of land based commercial wind turbines near residential property locations or state parks. This act is similar to Chapter 40B which allows contractors to bypass local zoning laws. A commercial wind contractor goes to the Energy Facilities Siting Board for a permit and bypasses any legal hurdles, conservation hearings, bylaws or planning boards.
Many towns citizens groups south of Boston have legally challenged the installation of commercial wind turbines as high as 440 feet in residential neighborhoods. Some sites as close as 600 feet to public facilities like bike paths. The only assumption is the state wants to avoid the court system to meet the 2010 renewable energy goals.
The act lacks public education, public hearings, just compensation for property loss, and takes control from local conservation and zoning boards.
The state doesn’t consider the local override portion of the Wind Energy Reform Act to be a significant element. The Energy Facilities Siting Board has a record of approving almost all energy projects. This act takes to much control from our towns.
Thanks.
Frank Haggerty
Mattapoisett
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