Proposed law’s regulations overly stringentThe proposed wind energy law in Cherry Valley includes overly stringent regulations that go beyond standards approved in over 20 other towns in New York. More importantly, these requirements go well beyond what is necessary to protect Cherry Valley residents. Reunion Power would support a new law that protects residents and would allow the East Hill Wind Farm to submit an application – with a full environmental review – and be fairly judged on its merits. Unfortunately, this is not what the planning board has proposed. The East Hill Wind Farm is designed with over 1,200 acres of buffer between the proposed wind turbines and other properties; it has setbacks of at least 1,200 feet (about a quarter mile) between the proposed turbines and residences; and places the turbines more than 450 feet from property lines and roads. This layout offers protections that we believe will stand up when tested by sound level surveys, shadow modeling and other required studies. The town of Cherry Valley has scheduled a public hearing on this proposed law, and will accept written comments. This period will allow residents to learn about the proposal and voice their opinions. It will also allow Reunion to submit facts on why the proposed setbacks and noise requirements are excessive. We encourage the town board to also use this time to evaluate the reasoning behind the proposed setbacks and solicit guidance from independent engineers. We all have an opportunity to provide the intended protections and allow the project to submit an application and be properly evaluated. I only ask that Cherry Valley take this opportunity. David Little Project Manager Reunion Power
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