GALIEN, Mich. — A number of area residents have formed a wind turbine analysis committee to research and share unbiased information on the proposed “Galien Oaks” industrial wind turbine project affecting Galien, Three Oaks, Weesaw and Baroda Townships.
The group’s goal is to assist townships in developing strong wind zoning ordinances that protect the health, safety and welfare of all residents in the community. Committee volunteer members are full-time area residents, and each share a strong commitment and willingness to work in partnership with township planning commissions.
Although industrial wind facilities have been deployed for many years elsewhere, they are new to southwest Michigan, which will require independent research. Wind developers will provide information and make recommendations for each township. The goal of the committee is to offer a focused community group to independently review and provide input from other successful wind turbine projects.
“I encourage community grassroots efforts as an important component to healthy governance, and [the] WTAC can play a vital role in helping our townships make informed decisions about industrial wind facilities,” said Dave Pagel, state representative for the 78th District. “My office supports WTAC in its mission to provide fact-based information on the long term implications a wind initiative will have on southwest Michigan.”
A critical component of WTAC’s investigation will be wind zoning ordinances — including turbine setback and noise limits — with a focus on protecting the health, safety and welfare of all residents in the community.
The WTAC has met with township boards and planning commissions to announce their mission, goals and strategies. WTAC is also collecting community input and interviewing other townships and individuals experienced in similar wind projects. The group will host a number of townhall-style meetings intended to keep residents informed on their work relative to the Galien Oaks wind turbine project.
For more information, or to join the WTAC, email info.wtac@gmail.com