Some changes could be in store for wind-energy projects in Vermilion County, but the county board chairman says portions of the county’s ordinance could be superseded by state action.
Larry Baughn told county board members Tuesday night that the changes will be considered during a meeting of the Executive and Legislation Committee, which is set for 5 p.m. Thursday, June 24. He says at least two speakers will be talking about the changes, and then it would head to the full county board for approval.
All wind turbines would be required to be at a distance of at least 1,200 feet, or three times the tower height, away from existing buildings. The current ordinance only specifies the 1,200-foot setback. Underground utilities would be required to be five feet below ground, an increase from the current three feet. An editorial section would be included to mention that a permit is required for wind farms, as the ordinance would only apply to those generating more than 100 kilowatts of electricity.
Wind farm applicants would have to complete a soil study and send it to a county committee for approval, and they would also be required to pay for a noise level study if a resident complains about it. The county would also need to be notified it the applicant makes any “like-kind” repairs to its facilities.
Baughn says that the county’s regulations could be moot if the Illinois General Assembly decides to take up Senate Bill 1602 when it meets next week. The proposed legislation would hand over much of the regulation of wind farms to the state if it passes.
