Supporters & Opposition Voice Opinions On Wind Project

The public hearing on a conditional use permit regarding the 168-turbine wind project north of Neligh went a few hours longer than anticipated today.
 
Those in support of and in opposition of Upstream LLC, the project managed by company Invenergy were present to discuss whether or not the project should move forward.
 
Landowners, realtors, citizens, farmers and young residents stood up and publicly voiced their opinions at the meeting Tuesday at the Neligh American Legion. 

Aaron Rice, who told the supervisors he recently returned to the county after going to college, spoke in favor of the project. Rice said many people talk about wanting to preserve the future for their grandchildren. Although he's a young farmer, he feels the same way and wants to look out for his future grandchildren as well, which is one reason he is in favor of the project.

"What people don't realize is we're in the minority - people my age are in this community," Rice said.
 
Among the ideas from those in favor of the turbines were the possibility of helping to pay property taxes and land payments, helping the growth in technology, providing more jobs and therefore bringing more young residents. 

One person referenced $220,000 in taxes that go toward Elgin's school district, which keeps the levy lower. That, he said, only comes from one of the three projects in the district. The other two will contribute even more money, he said.
 
Some brought up past opportunities that were pushed aside, that could have benefited Neligh in the long run like Cargill or the ethanol plant, which ended up in Albion and brought many positive aspects to that community.
 
Those against stated three main points - noise, safety, and trespassing permits.
 
Residents of Antelope and Boone county spoke on their experience with the turbines on or near their land, citing noise issues most often.
 
Many said that it is hard to anticipate how much noise the turbines make unless you have already experienced it.
 
Some of those against made sure to explain that they are not against the wind turbines, they just want to make sure it is done right. 

Dean Smith, who helped organize the Protect Antelope County's Future organization against the project, told supervisors he has issues with the zoning regulations, which should be in place for the safety of others.

"I'm here opposing the Upstream application as presented at this time," Smith said.
 
An attorney representing Invenergy said this process has been under way for more than a year, and the company has altered its permit appropriately to meet regulations set.
 
Representatives assured Antelope County resident by saying they have met all the requirements and will continue meet the requirements with tests many times before construction and again after. 
 
The county supervisors will meet and discuss the issue further on June 7.