By Kelly Vadney
Times Staff Writer
The Watertown Daily Times
19 August 2007
CAPE VINCENT — The Wind Power Ethics Group should know within two months if its lawsuit against the town Zoning Board of Appeals has been successful.
Both sides presented arguments Thursday in state Supreme Court in front of Judge Hugh A. Gilbert.
[continue reading via the Watertown Time archives]
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Friday, August 17, 2007
Wind farm plans won't wait for Lyme
link not available
By Kelly Vadney
Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 08/17/2007
CAPE VINCENT — BP Alternative Energy isn’t letting the town of Lyme’s moratorium on wind power halt progress on its proposed Cape Vincent Wind Farm.
The company moved forward with the state environmental review process for the wind farm with the Cape Vincent Planning Board on Wednesday. It submitted a scoping document, which explains what studies it will do in its environmental review. The public has 30 days to submit comments on the scoping material.
[continue reading via the WDT]
By Kelly Vadney
Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 08/17/2007
CAPE VINCENT — BP Alternative Energy isn’t letting the town of Lyme’s moratorium on wind power halt progress on its proposed Cape Vincent Wind Farm.
The company moved forward with the state environmental review process for the wind farm with the Cape Vincent Planning Board on Wednesday. It submitted a scoping document, which explains what studies it will do in its environmental review. The public has 30 days to submit comments on the scoping material.
[continue reading via the WDT]
Thursday, August 16, 2007
Wind Power Informational Meeting
August 16, 2007
Press release- for immediate release
There will be a Wind Power Informational Meeting on August 23rd at 7-9pm
Location: Thousand Islands High School, County Rte 9, Cape Vincent, NY
This meeting will be sponsored by WPEG, a Cape Vincent organization concerned about the implications of major wind development in the Jefferson County Coastal areas.
The pros and cons of wind power development will be discussed along with how a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) operates for communities – now and in the future.
Keith Pitman, President and CEO, Empire State Wind Energy, Oneida, NY
Brad Jones, MBA, Consultant, Naples, NY
Paul E. Carr, Ph.D., P. E, Engineer, Professor, Cornell University
James Fayle, Executive Director, Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency (JCIDA)
The panel will be moderated by Denise Young, Director- The Center for Community Studies, Jefferson Community College, Watertown, NY
All residents are urged to attend to learn more about Wind Power Development
Press release- for immediate release
There will be a Wind Power Informational Meeting on August 23rd at 7-9pm
Location: Thousand Islands High School, County Rte 9, Cape Vincent, NY
This meeting will be sponsored by WPEG, a Cape Vincent organization concerned about the implications of major wind development in the Jefferson County Coastal areas.
The pros and cons of wind power development will be discussed along with how a PILOT (Payment in Lieu of Taxes) operates for communities – now and in the future.
Keith Pitman, President and CEO, Empire State Wind Energy, Oneida, NY
Brad Jones, MBA, Consultant, Naples, NY
Paul E. Carr, Ph.D., P. E, Engineer, Professor, Cornell University
James Fayle, Executive Director, Jefferson County Industrial Development Agency (JCIDA)
The panel will be moderated by Denise Young, Director- The Center for Community Studies, Jefferson Community College, Watertown, NY
All residents are urged to attend to learn more about Wind Power Development
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
Cape Board of Trustees/ Discuss turbine issues dock ~
VILLAGE OF CAPE VINCENT BOARD OF TRUSTEES AUGUST 14, 2007
Mayor Timothy D. Maloney opened the meeting at 5:30 PM with Trustees Robert Doud, Douglas Putnam, Alan Ada, and Joseph Gould present.
Mayor Maloney first announced the public hearing for the amendment to Local Law 2-05 would be held on August 28th, as advertised.
Trustee Doud would like the previous minutes corrected to read increased speeding was occurring on Lee St., not James Street. With this correction, Trustee Ada made the motion to dispense with the reading of the previous meeting minutes and correct them as written with Trustee Doud seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Abstract three was given for the Board to review as follows:
General: $26,64550
Water: 13,319.00
Sewer: 7,522.97
After review and questions, Trustee Putnam made the motion to grant the Treasurer authority to pay the abstract with Trustee Gould seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Lucinda Stevens, E. Lake St., addressed the Board with her concern over the use of motorized scooters on Village Streets. Her concern is the operators do not obey traffic laws. Mayor Maloney explained there is a Local Law 4-03 in place to address this use but due to the Village police department being in a transition period it has not been monitored but this would be referred to the officer in charge.
Curfew is also being violated according to Ms.Stevens and should also be monitored by the police. She then complained of an unusual taste and smell with the water at her home. She further explained the Village has tested the water with the results showing no unusual problems. Her neighbor’s homes are not affected but the taste and odor have appeared at different times over the past few months at her residence. After discussion, it was decided the Supt. will be notified the next time the problems occur and the water will be tested.
John Defrancesco, resident, stated he received a call from the Watertown Times reporter explaining she had interviewed Trustee Doud who stated the Local Development Corp. (LDC) was against having singlewide mobile homes in the Village. Mr. Defrancesco explained this was his personal opinion, not the opinion of the LDC. Trustee Doud responded he thought this because LDC members heavily attended the public hearing. As the discussion continued, Trustee Doud stated to Mr. Defrancesco, he does have issues with local group as he feels the group is more concerned with political issues than local development issues. His foremost issue is the recent survey sent out by the group, which he considers a windmill survey, private meetings and the alleged fraud of survey results. Mayor Maloney then used the gavel to end the dialogue by Mr. Doud and announced there would be no more discussion over a newspaper article. Mayor Maloney suggested Mr. Doud go to the next LDC meeting and discuss his issues with the group.
Marty Mason, DPW Supt., reported on activities of his departments as follows:
1. Cut and capped unused sewer laterals
2. Slurry paving of 4500 feet of streets will be done for approx. $8696.00
3. Bernier and Carr will locate survey pins for paving
4. Employee studying for sewer test while off on medical leave
5. Summer Employee G. Mingle will end employment during October or earlier
6. New mower has arrived and is being used
7. Hanging flower pots will come down in mid September
8. Trustee Ada asked the Supt. to order a sign for Broadway and James St. possibly from the County
9. Hylift pump for water plant has been rebuilt and will be delivered
Trustee Doud reported on the recent mobile home survey sent out in July. Out of approximately 450 surveys sent out 213 were returned. The singlewide manufactured home results were 104 votes no and 116 votes yes. The doublewide manufactured home results were 141 yes votes and 79 no votes. Mr. Doud reported the surveys were safeguarded after the question was asked. Mayor Maloney and the Board will take into consideration the written comments that were returned with survey.
Mayor Maloney had received correspondence from the New York State Department of Transportation concerning the proposed Welcome Center building at the East End Park. They questioned whether or not the Village would proceed with the project or return the funding. Trustee Gould made the motion to return the funding as the project had been cancelled with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes. Mayor Maloney will notify the proper officials with Department of Transportation.
Trustee Putnam brought forth for discussion the project scope and budget of the possible construction of a shipping dock at the East End Park. He reported the dock would be 600 feet long with a varying width from 60 feet to 80 feet with a preliminary construction budget of $8,223,000. Mayor Maloney explained the dock would be used to unload windmill parts and also as a Village dock for public use. Trustee Ada stated the dock would benefit the Village as it would encourage tourism and would be useful for tour boats to visit the area and private boaters to which would be of benefit to the Village. Resident, Barb Steinhouse, questioned the fact a portion of the East End Park would be termed commercial while Mayor Maloney explained the Village must show another area in the Village which would be used to compensate for the use of space at the Park. The area would be of the same dollar value and be designated as recreational use. Trustee Putnam will go forward and discuss this dock further with the St. Lawrence Wind Farm officials who have had preliminary interest in the project. He will also contact the New York State Office of Parks and Recreation with the proposed plan. The question of financing the study arose with Mayor Maloney responding it would be the Village responsibility. Residents asked if there would be a public hearing on the project before the Village moves forward with the Mayor responding he will check the possibility of a hearing with legal sources.
Mayor Maloney answered questions that arose at the last meeting about a dock and fence at the Defrancesco property. He did find the Village had issued a permit and Department of Environmental Conservation has no jurisdiction over this area as it was incorporated into the Village in 1987 as part of Village zoning. Trustee Doud did check the fence and found it did not obstruct views with Mr. Defrancesco responding he also had a permit from the Village for a fence.
Mayor Maloney showed the Jefferson County Board of Legislators had transferred paperwork designating a portion of the Dreswick property on Bay Street to the Village. A use of a home in the residential area, which is claimed to being used as a boarding house with, out a proper permit, was discussed. Trustee Doud stated boarding homes are addressed in the code and he will check for the proper language. Trustee Ada made the motion to have the code Enforcement Officer send a letter to the offender with Trustee Doud seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Written correspondence was read from the president of Mimakar Inc. requesting the Board to rescind the parking ban on James Street in front of the Hinckley residence as it is being abused by the Hinckley’s and not enforced by the local police. Trustee Gould stated this had been addressed previously and the Local law will remain and the Village Police will be asked to monitor this area.
James Docteur, Code Officer, advised the Board the Village does not have subdivision laws for a proposed development off Broadway but the project must abide by NYS laws. The Village does not require a site plan review but the Village Board may vote to have a site plan review for comments only. The officer further stated the project is possibly three years out.
Mayor Maloney read a letter of resignation from Perry Golden, part time police officer, but the letter was not signed, just typed and will be returned for a written signature. A Thank You letter will be sent to Mr. Golden for years of service. Mr. Golden will be directed to turn the Village owned weapon over to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office for safekeeping.
A letter of congratulations will be sent to the Improvement League on their securing a $200,000.00 Downtown Revitalization grant.
Mayor Maloney requested the Board rescind the resolution of May 8, 2007 that stated the Village would withdraw support to the LDC if meetings were not open to the public. He wishes the Board would extend the same trust the Village gives other groups whom the Village makes a monetary contribution. Mayor Maloney believes there was some misconception over the past months with the group and community. Trustee Ada asked how long the group had been organized which is three years and he feels this group is still in its infancy, which could account for some of the problems. Trustee Doud stated it is a moot point as now the meetings are public but did question when the strategy plan would be completed. The plan presentation will be at the September 11th Board meeting. After short discussion, Trustee Doud made the motion to rescind his motion of May 8th with Trustee Gould seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Gould will order digital service for Internet connections for the Law offices, Village office and the DPW offices.
Trustee Gould made the motion to enter an executive session to discuss policing issues with Officer Ryan at 7:25 PM with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes. Trustee Ada made the motion to appoint Shawn Ryan as Officer in charge with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes. Trustee Gould made the motion to increase the hourly rate of Shawn Ryan, due to an increase in duties to $15.00 per hour retroactive to August 8, 2007 with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Ada made the motion to resume regular session at 8:24 Pm with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Gould made the motion to allow the Village to participate in the New York State deferred Compensation Plan with Trustee Doud seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Doud made the motion to adjourn at 8:30 PM with Mayor Maloney seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Knapp
Village Clerk
Mayor Timothy D. Maloney opened the meeting at 5:30 PM with Trustees Robert Doud, Douglas Putnam, Alan Ada, and Joseph Gould present.
Mayor Maloney first announced the public hearing for the amendment to Local Law 2-05 would be held on August 28th, as advertised.
Trustee Doud would like the previous minutes corrected to read increased speeding was occurring on Lee St., not James Street. With this correction, Trustee Ada made the motion to dispense with the reading of the previous meeting minutes and correct them as written with Trustee Doud seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Abstract three was given for the Board to review as follows:
General: $26,64550
Water: 13,319.00
Sewer: 7,522.97
After review and questions, Trustee Putnam made the motion to grant the Treasurer authority to pay the abstract with Trustee Gould seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Lucinda Stevens, E. Lake St., addressed the Board with her concern over the use of motorized scooters on Village Streets. Her concern is the operators do not obey traffic laws. Mayor Maloney explained there is a Local Law 4-03 in place to address this use but due to the Village police department being in a transition period it has not been monitored but this would be referred to the officer in charge.
Curfew is also being violated according to Ms.Stevens and should also be monitored by the police. She then complained of an unusual taste and smell with the water at her home. She further explained the Village has tested the water with the results showing no unusual problems. Her neighbor’s homes are not affected but the taste and odor have appeared at different times over the past few months at her residence. After discussion, it was decided the Supt. will be notified the next time the problems occur and the water will be tested.
John Defrancesco, resident, stated he received a call from the Watertown Times reporter explaining she had interviewed Trustee Doud who stated the Local Development Corp. (LDC) was against having singlewide mobile homes in the Village. Mr. Defrancesco explained this was his personal opinion, not the opinion of the LDC. Trustee Doud responded he thought this because LDC members heavily attended the public hearing. As the discussion continued, Trustee Doud stated to Mr. Defrancesco, he does have issues with local group as he feels the group is more concerned with political issues than local development issues. His foremost issue is the recent survey sent out by the group, which he considers a windmill survey, private meetings and the alleged fraud of survey results. Mayor Maloney then used the gavel to end the dialogue by Mr. Doud and announced there would be no more discussion over a newspaper article. Mayor Maloney suggested Mr. Doud go to the next LDC meeting and discuss his issues with the group.
Marty Mason, DPW Supt., reported on activities of his departments as follows:
1. Cut and capped unused sewer laterals
2. Slurry paving of 4500 feet of streets will be done for approx. $8696.00
3. Bernier and Carr will locate survey pins for paving
4. Employee studying for sewer test while off on medical leave
5. Summer Employee G. Mingle will end employment during October or earlier
6. New mower has arrived and is being used
7. Hanging flower pots will come down in mid September
8. Trustee Ada asked the Supt. to order a sign for Broadway and James St. possibly from the County
9. Hylift pump for water plant has been rebuilt and will be delivered
Trustee Doud reported on the recent mobile home survey sent out in July. Out of approximately 450 surveys sent out 213 were returned. The singlewide manufactured home results were 104 votes no and 116 votes yes. The doublewide manufactured home results were 141 yes votes and 79 no votes. Mr. Doud reported the surveys were safeguarded after the question was asked. Mayor Maloney and the Board will take into consideration the written comments that were returned with survey.
Mayor Maloney had received correspondence from the New York State Department of Transportation concerning the proposed Welcome Center building at the East End Park. They questioned whether or not the Village would proceed with the project or return the funding. Trustee Gould made the motion to return the funding as the project had been cancelled with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes. Mayor Maloney will notify the proper officials with Department of Transportation.
Trustee Putnam brought forth for discussion the project scope and budget of the possible construction of a shipping dock at the East End Park. He reported the dock would be 600 feet long with a varying width from 60 feet to 80 feet with a preliminary construction budget of $8,223,000. Mayor Maloney explained the dock would be used to unload windmill parts and also as a Village dock for public use. Trustee Ada stated the dock would benefit the Village as it would encourage tourism and would be useful for tour boats to visit the area and private boaters to which would be of benefit to the Village. Resident, Barb Steinhouse, questioned the fact a portion of the East End Park would be termed commercial while Mayor Maloney explained the Village must show another area in the Village which would be used to compensate for the use of space at the Park. The area would be of the same dollar value and be designated as recreational use. Trustee Putnam will go forward and discuss this dock further with the St. Lawrence Wind Farm officials who have had preliminary interest in the project. He will also contact the New York State Office of Parks and Recreation with the proposed plan. The question of financing the study arose with Mayor Maloney responding it would be the Village responsibility. Residents asked if there would be a public hearing on the project before the Village moves forward with the Mayor responding he will check the possibility of a hearing with legal sources.
Mayor Maloney answered questions that arose at the last meeting about a dock and fence at the Defrancesco property. He did find the Village had issued a permit and Department of Environmental Conservation has no jurisdiction over this area as it was incorporated into the Village in 1987 as part of Village zoning. Trustee Doud did check the fence and found it did not obstruct views with Mr. Defrancesco responding he also had a permit from the Village for a fence.
Mayor Maloney showed the Jefferson County Board of Legislators had transferred paperwork designating a portion of the Dreswick property on Bay Street to the Village. A use of a home in the residential area, which is claimed to being used as a boarding house with, out a proper permit, was discussed. Trustee Doud stated boarding homes are addressed in the code and he will check for the proper language. Trustee Ada made the motion to have the code Enforcement Officer send a letter to the offender with Trustee Doud seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Written correspondence was read from the president of Mimakar Inc. requesting the Board to rescind the parking ban on James Street in front of the Hinckley residence as it is being abused by the Hinckley’s and not enforced by the local police. Trustee Gould stated this had been addressed previously and the Local law will remain and the Village Police will be asked to monitor this area.
James Docteur, Code Officer, advised the Board the Village does not have subdivision laws for a proposed development off Broadway but the project must abide by NYS laws. The Village does not require a site plan review but the Village Board may vote to have a site plan review for comments only. The officer further stated the project is possibly three years out.
Mayor Maloney read a letter of resignation from Perry Golden, part time police officer, but the letter was not signed, just typed and will be returned for a written signature. A Thank You letter will be sent to Mr. Golden for years of service. Mr. Golden will be directed to turn the Village owned weapon over to the Jefferson County Sheriff’s office for safekeeping.
A letter of congratulations will be sent to the Improvement League on their securing a $200,000.00 Downtown Revitalization grant.
Mayor Maloney requested the Board rescind the resolution of May 8, 2007 that stated the Village would withdraw support to the LDC if meetings were not open to the public. He wishes the Board would extend the same trust the Village gives other groups whom the Village makes a monetary contribution. Mayor Maloney believes there was some misconception over the past months with the group and community. Trustee Ada asked how long the group had been organized which is three years and he feels this group is still in its infancy, which could account for some of the problems. Trustee Doud stated it is a moot point as now the meetings are public but did question when the strategy plan would be completed. The plan presentation will be at the September 11th Board meeting. After short discussion, Trustee Doud made the motion to rescind his motion of May 8th with Trustee Gould seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Gould will order digital service for Internet connections for the Law offices, Village office and the DPW offices.
Trustee Gould made the motion to enter an executive session to discuss policing issues with Officer Ryan at 7:25 PM with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes. Trustee Ada made the motion to appoint Shawn Ryan as Officer in charge with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes. Trustee Gould made the motion to increase the hourly rate of Shawn Ryan, due to an increase in duties to $15.00 per hour retroactive to August 8, 2007 with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Ada made the motion to resume regular session at 8:24 Pm with Trustee Putnam seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Gould made the motion to allow the Village to participate in the New York State deferred Compensation Plan with Trustee Doud seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Trustee Doud made the motion to adjourn at 8:30 PM with Mayor Maloney seconding the motion and all voting yes.
Respectfully submitted,
Nancy Knapp
Village Clerk
Saturday, August 4, 2007
Property Owners Asked For Input On Wind Farm Turbines
By Kelly Vadney
Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 08/04/2007
CHAUMONT — Residents in Lyme will have the opportunity to express their views on wind farm development this month.
This week, the town Planning Board is sending surveys to all property owners asking where wind turbines should be sited.
[Continue via the WDT archives]
Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 08/04/2007
CHAUMONT — Residents in Lyme will have the opportunity to express their views on wind farm development this month.
This week, the town Planning Board is sending surveys to all property owners asking where wind turbines should be sited.
[Continue via the WDT archives]
Saturday, July 21, 2007
St. Lawrence Wind Farm~needs approval from the PSC in the form of a certificate of necessity
Link not available
By Kelly Vadney
Watertown Daily Times
21 July 2007
CAPE VINCENT — If the St. Lawrence Wind Farm wants to satisfy the state Public Service Commission, it should rewind six months and start its environmental review over.
For the wind farm to build its 96 proposed turbines, it needs approval from the PSC in the form of a certificate of necessity, spokeswoman Anne P. Dalton said.
The commission’s comments on the review say the town Planning Board accepted a draft environmental impact statement that is incomplete and “does not address any topic in sufficient detail.”
[Continue reading via the WDT archives]
By Kelly Vadney
Watertown Daily Times
21 July 2007
CAPE VINCENT — If the St. Lawrence Wind Farm wants to satisfy the state Public Service Commission, it should rewind six months and start its environmental review over.
For the wind farm to build its 96 proposed turbines, it needs approval from the PSC in the form of a certificate of necessity, spokeswoman Anne P. Dalton said.
The commission’s comments on the review say the town Planning Board accepted a draft environmental impact statement that is incomplete and “does not address any topic in sufficient detail.”
[Continue reading via the WDT archives]
Saturday, July 14, 2007
Save-the-River-Thousand-Islands-Land-Trust-Comments-on-the-St-Lawrence-Wind-Draft-Environmental-Impact-Sta
Author: Save the River and Thousand Islands Land Trust
<-----link to original document
Save The River and Thousand Islands Land Trust respectfully submit the following comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Horse Creek Wind project proposed by PPM Energy in the Town of Clayton.
Save The River and the Thousand Islands Land Trust support green energy, including wind turbines, in any community but that they must be properly sited and that appropriate studies must be completed. We are submitting joint comments to highlight our significant concerns about the deficiencies of planning and oversight on this wind energy development proposal.
The Thousand Islands region and St. Lawrence River valley are areas where land and water interconnect and, as a result, are a rich, diverse area for wildlife. Additionally, our area is a key piece of the North Atlantic Flyway, a significant migratory pathway for millions of birds. Several noteworthy bird species have been documented using this region either as nesting habitat, over wintering, or foraging areas. Multiple organizations and agencies have recognized the environmental importance of the area including:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has identified the Thousand Islands region as one of three focal areas for Strategic Habitat Conservation in Region 5.
2006 New York State Open Space Conservation Plan considers the St. Lawrence River islands, shorelines and wetlands a conservation priority
New York Department of Environmental Conservation has designated the area as a New York State Bird Conservation Area.
Audubon New York has identified the area as an Important Bird Area.
In light of these important environmental features, Save The River and the Thousand Islands Land Trust are very concerned about the lack of depth and breadth of the environmental studies included in the DEIS and the overall site review process for this proposed development. Specifically,
Regional Study and County-wide review – With large-scale wind development projects underway throughout the St. Lawrence River valley and the North Country, a thorough review of the collective impact of these projects is critical. The impacts and benefits of wind-energy installations are not constrained by political boundaries. The Jefferson County Legislature and Jefferson County Planning Department should be involved in coordinating these projects on a county-wide basis.
Pre-construction Studies — Pre-construction evaluation of the facility is critical to fully understand and mitigate potential environmental impacts. Pre- construction studies provide important information needed to site and construct the wind turbines with minimal impact on environmental features. The DEIS currently recommends relying heavily on post-construction mitigation, which is not acceptable.
Rigorous SEQR Review — We are very concerned that the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) process has not been followed to its fullest extent. The SEQR process requires full review of adverse impacts and alternatives. The DEIS for this project fails to show what the significant adverse environmental impacts might be and it does not contain information necessary to evaluate project alternatives.
Relevant Agency Expertise — In light of the national and regional significance of the ecology of this region, agencies with relevant expertise, such as the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, New York Department of State, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, must be an integral part of the decision-making process on any environmental and site review processes.
Long-term bird and wildlife studies – The DEIS must include studies of at least three years in duration to account for natural annual variability of bird and wildlife habitat. Currently, the DEIS includes only one year of study and data collection. An expert panel recently convened by the National Research Council, Environmental Impacts of Wind-Energy Projects (2007), strongly recommended that all wind energy proposals develop predictive and risk- assessment models of potential, cumulative impacts that include full season, multi-year pre-siting studies, pre-construction studies and are followed by post-construction studies. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also has a policy of recommending three-year studies.
Wetland Impacts – The DEIS does not adequately address the impact of project construction, including roads, transmission lines and turbines, on wetlands. Additionally, post-construction impacts of storm water run off from new roads and other turbine maintenance facilities must be examined.
Cost-benefit analysis – A cost-benefit analysis of the project must be considered so that decision-makers have a thorough understanding of economic and environmental costs and benefits to the region. In conclusion, we strongly urge the Town of Cape Vincent Planning Board to require the developer of the project, AES/Acciona Energy NY, to take additional time to review the potential environmental impacts of this project proposal. This wind energy facility is anticipated to be in operation for 20-30 years. Taking a relatively short amount of time to study, understand, and plan for the mitigation of any potential impacts will have long- term benefits in ensuring that this development has limited impact on the environment and economy of our region.
Sincerely,
Jennifer J. Caddick
Executive Director
Save The River
Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper
Aaron R. Vogel
Executive Director
Thousand Islands Land Trust
June 14, 2007
<-----link to original document
Save The River and Thousand Islands Land Trust respectfully submit the following comments on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) for the Horse Creek Wind project proposed by PPM Energy in the Town of Clayton.
Save The River and the Thousand Islands Land Trust support green energy, including wind turbines, in any community but that they must be properly sited and that appropriate studies must be completed. We are submitting joint comments to highlight our significant concerns about the deficiencies of planning and oversight on this wind energy development proposal.
The Thousand Islands region and St. Lawrence River valley are areas where land and water interconnect and, as a result, are a rich, diverse area for wildlife. Additionally, our area is a key piece of the North Atlantic Flyway, a significant migratory pathway for millions of birds. Several noteworthy bird species have been documented using this region either as nesting habitat, over wintering, or foraging areas. Multiple organizations and agencies have recognized the environmental importance of the area including:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has identified the Thousand Islands region as one of three focal areas for Strategic Habitat Conservation in Region 5.
2006 New York State Open Space Conservation Plan considers the St. Lawrence River islands, shorelines and wetlands a conservation priority
New York Department of Environmental Conservation has designated the area as a New York State Bird Conservation Area.
Audubon New York has identified the area as an Important Bird Area.
In light of these important environmental features, Save The River and the Thousand Islands Land Trust are very concerned about the lack of depth and breadth of the environmental studies included in the DEIS and the overall site review process for this proposed development. Specifically,
Regional Study and County-wide review – With large-scale wind development projects underway throughout the St. Lawrence River valley and the North Country, a thorough review of the collective impact of these projects is critical. The impacts and benefits of wind-energy installations are not constrained by political boundaries. The Jefferson County Legislature and Jefferson County Planning Department should be involved in coordinating these projects on a county-wide basis.
Pre-construction Studies — Pre-construction evaluation of the facility is critical to fully understand and mitigate potential environmental impacts. Pre- construction studies provide important information needed to site and construct the wind turbines with minimal impact on environmental features. The DEIS currently recommends relying heavily on post-construction mitigation, which is not acceptable.
Rigorous SEQR Review — We are very concerned that the State Environmental Quality Review (SEQR) process has not been followed to its fullest extent. The SEQR process requires full review of adverse impacts and alternatives. The DEIS for this project fails to show what the significant adverse environmental impacts might be and it does not contain information necessary to evaluate project alternatives.
Relevant Agency Expertise — In light of the national and regional significance of the ecology of this region, agencies with relevant expertise, such as the New York Department of Environmental Conservation, New York Department of State, and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, must be an integral part of the decision-making process on any environmental and site review processes.
Long-term bird and wildlife studies – The DEIS must include studies of at least three years in duration to account for natural annual variability of bird and wildlife habitat. Currently, the DEIS includes only one year of study and data collection. An expert panel recently convened by the National Research Council, Environmental Impacts of Wind-Energy Projects (2007), strongly recommended that all wind energy proposals develop predictive and risk- assessment models of potential, cumulative impacts that include full season, multi-year pre-siting studies, pre-construction studies and are followed by post-construction studies. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service also has a policy of recommending three-year studies.
Wetland Impacts – The DEIS does not adequately address the impact of project construction, including roads, transmission lines and turbines, on wetlands. Additionally, post-construction impacts of storm water run off from new roads and other turbine maintenance facilities must be examined.
Cost-benefit analysis – A cost-benefit analysis of the project must be considered so that decision-makers have a thorough understanding of economic and environmental costs and benefits to the region. In conclusion, we strongly urge the Town of Cape Vincent Planning Board to require the developer of the project, AES/Acciona Energy NY, to take additional time to review the potential environmental impacts of this project proposal. This wind energy facility is anticipated to be in operation for 20-30 years. Taking a relatively short amount of time to study, understand, and plan for the mitigation of any potential impacts will have long- term benefits in ensuring that this development has limited impact on the environment and economy of our region.
Sincerely,
Jennifer J. Caddick
Executive Director
Save The River
Upper St. Lawrence Riverkeeper
Aaron R. Vogel
Executive Director
Thousand Islands Land Trust
June 14, 2007
Sunday, July 1, 2007
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Cape Vincent Lists its Requirements For Wind Turbines
By Kelly Vadney
Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 06/28/2007
CAPE VINCENT — The Town Planning Board on Wednesday gave the St. Lawrence Wind Farm several hoops to jump through before completing the environmental review for its proposed project.
The wind farm, proposed by AES Acciona Wind Power NY, would bring up to 96 turbines to the town. A second project, Cape Vincent Wind Farm, proposed by BP Alternative Energy, would bring 60 to 80 turbines to the interior of Cape Vincent and 30 to 60 to the neighboring town of Lyme. BP’s project is not yet in the environmental review stage.
[Continue reading via the WDT archives]
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Towns Seeking Wind Zoning Advice
By Kelly Vadney
Watertown Daily Times
Date: 06/27/2007
With industrial wind farm developments on the horizon in the north county, town supervisors are reaching out to Jefferson County government for help.
The Jefferson County Town Supervisors Association has asked the county planning office to present examples of zoning laws for turbines at an upcoming meeting, said County Planning Director Donald R. Canfield. While the county cannot implement zoning for municipalities, it can offer advice if called upon.
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Watertown Daily Times
Date: 06/27/2007
With industrial wind farm developments on the horizon in the north county, town supervisors are reaching out to Jefferson County government for help.
The Jefferson County Town Supervisors Association has asked the county planning office to present examples of zoning laws for turbines at an upcoming meeting, said County Planning Director Donald R. Canfield. While the county cannot implement zoning for municipalities, it can offer advice if called upon.
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Sunday, June 24, 2007
CAPE RESIDENTS SAY WIND FARM PLAN DOSEN"T HONOR SETBACKS
CAPE RESIDENTS SAY WIND FARM PLAN DOESN"T HONOR SETBACKS
By Kelly Vadney
Watertown Daily Times
Publication Date: 06/24/2007
CAPE VINCENT — St. Lawrence Wind Farm has proposed turbine locations short of a 1,000-foot setback the company pledged to honor, mapping some industrial windmills closer to properties that are not participating in its project.
Former town Councilman Clifford P. Schneider wrote the town Planning Board about the locations, saying he found 30 proposed turbine sites that are closer than 1,000 feet to nonparticipating parcels.
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Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Save The River ,TILT Call For A Chomprehensive Wind Farm Review
By Kelly Vadney
Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 06/19/2007
Two nonprofit environmental organizations have teamed up to call for a comprehensive review of proposed wind farms in Jefferson County.
Save the River and the Thousand Islands Land Trust submitted identical comments concerning the proposed St. Lawrence Wind Farm, Cape Vincent, and the Horse Creek Wind Farm, Clayton.
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Publication: Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 06/19/2007
Two nonprofit environmental organizations have teamed up to call for a comprehensive review of proposed wind farms in Jefferson County.
Save the River and the Thousand Islands Land Trust submitted identical comments concerning the proposed St. Lawrence Wind Farm, Cape Vincent, and the Horse Creek Wind Farm, Clayton.
[Continue Via the WDT archives]
Monday, June 11, 2007
Lyme Seeks lead Agency status in BP's~ Cape Wind farm
By Kelly Vadney
Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
06/11/2007
The town of Lyme is using its six-month moratorium on wind farm development, which was enacted in April, to seek control in the environmental review process for the proposed Cape Vincent Wind Farm and draft zoning regulation for turbines.
It has written the state Department of Environmental Conservation asserting that it “will act as lead agency” for any State Environmental Quality Review within its boundaries.
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Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
06/11/2007
The town of Lyme is using its six-month moratorium on wind farm development, which was enacted in April, to seek control in the environmental review process for the proposed Cape Vincent Wind Farm and draft zoning regulation for turbines.
It has written the state Department of Environmental Conservation asserting that it “will act as lead agency” for any State Environmental Quality Review within its boundaries.
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Tuesday, May 22, 2007
2007 , Stantec sent letters out to the residents of Cape Vincent announcing their plans to build an 86 turbine wind complex on Wolfe Island Identifying the residents of Cape Vincent as stakeholders in this project .
Although the project has been completed this does not mean we are no longer stakeholders.
Below are documents I received from Stantec notifying me of the Wolfe Island Project and the stakeholder comment period
Wallstreet Video news sto Source: The Wall Street Journal
Canadians Make a Racket Over Mysterious 'Windsor Hum'
Although the project has been completed this does not mean we are no longer stakeholders.
Below are documents I received from Stantec notifying me of the Wolfe Island Project and the stakeholder comment period
Wallstreet Video news sto Source: The Wall Street Journal
Canadians Make a Racket Over Mysterious 'Windsor Hum'
Thursday, May 17, 2007
SPITZER GETS BILL LIMITING FARM TAX/ Aubertine Co-Sponsors Bill
Published: May 17, 2007
SPITZER GETS BILL LIMITING FARM TAX
ASSESSMENT RELIEF: LEGISLATION WOULD HOLD INCREASE TO NO MORE THAN 10% OF 2006 VALUE
Watertown Daily Times
By CHRIS GARIFO
TIMES ALBANY CORRESPONDENT
ALBANY -- Property tax assessments on farms will increase by no more than 10 percent above their value from the year before under legislation heading to Gov. Eliot L. Spitzer.
"This makes a lot of sense," said state Sen. Joseph A. Griffo, R-Rome, who introduced the legislation in the state Senate. The measure's co-sponsors include state Sen. James W. Wright, R-Watertown, and Assemblymembers Darrel J. Aubertine, D-Cape Vincent, and Dierdre K. Scozzafava, R-Gouverneur.
Farmland in New York is not assessed based on its commercial value, as are most other properties. Instead, a formula is used based on the productive value of the soil.
Under the formula, better soils have a higher assessed value because they produce better crops.
However, the formula also takes into account the overall farm economy to determine the actual value of the land to agriculture. A complex process is used to determine that and is based over several years.
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SPITZER GETS BILL LIMITING FARM TAX
ASSESSMENT RELIEF: LEGISLATION WOULD HOLD INCREASE TO NO MORE THAN 10% OF 2006 VALUE
Watertown Daily Times
By CHRIS GARIFO
TIMES ALBANY CORRESPONDENT
ALBANY -- Property tax assessments on farms will increase by no more than 10 percent above their value from the year before under legislation heading to Gov. Eliot L. Spitzer.
"This makes a lot of sense," said state Sen. Joseph A. Griffo, R-Rome, who introduced the legislation in the state Senate. The measure's co-sponsors include state Sen. James W. Wright, R-Watertown, and Assemblymembers Darrel J. Aubertine, D-Cape Vincent, and Dierdre K. Scozzafava, R-Gouverneur.
Farmland in New York is not assessed based on its commercial value, as are most other properties. Instead, a formula is used based on the productive value of the soil.
Under the formula, better soils have a higher assessed value because they produce better crops.
However, the formula also takes into account the overall farm economy to determine the actual value of the land to agriculture. A complex process is used to determine that and is based over several years.
[Continue via the WDT archives]
Friday, April 27, 2007
antitrust complaint against the wind industry.
Watertown Daily Times
Date: 04/27/2007
T. Urling and Mabel Walker of Watertown and Cape Vincent are among 20 north country residents named in a 94-person antitrust complaint against the wind industry.
The complaint — submitted Wednesday via e-mail to the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division — alleges that a number of foreign and domestic companies “have conspired to eliminate competition in the newly emerging wind energy industry.” It claims that, through alliances and cross-ownership, the alleged “international cartel” is avoiding competition for potential wind farm sites, reducing benefits to landowners and municipalities, and that “virtually all of the earnings are funneled abroad to the foreign owners and investors.”
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Date: 04/27/2007
T. Urling and Mabel Walker of Watertown and Cape Vincent are among 20 north country residents named in a 94-person antitrust complaint against the wind industry.
The complaint — submitted Wednesday via e-mail to the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust division — alleges that a number of foreign and domestic companies “have conspired to eliminate competition in the newly emerging wind energy industry.” It claims that, through alliances and cross-ownership, the alleged “international cartel” is avoiding competition for potential wind farm sites, reducing benefits to landowners and municipalities, and that “virtually all of the earnings are funneled abroad to the foreign owners and investors.”
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Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Cape Vincent Local Development Corp. sends out survey asking about wind farm.
Byline: Kelly Vadney
Article from:Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY) Article date:
Apr. 11--CAPE VINCENT --
It's easy to ruffle feathers in Cape Vincent.
Just follow the Cape Vincent Local Development Corp.'s footsteps and send out 2,000 surveys that ask questions about wind turbines.
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Article from:Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY) Article date:
Apr. 11--CAPE VINCENT --
It's easy to ruffle feathers in Cape Vincent.
Just follow the Cape Vincent Local Development Corp.'s footsteps and send out 2,000 surveys that ask questions about wind turbines.
[Continue via the WDT archives]
Saturday, April 7, 2007
WPEG ~ Wind Lawsuit Claims zoning law change required for utilities designation of wind turbines
By Kelly Vadney
Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
04/07/2007
The town of Cape Vincent sees proposed wind turbines just like a water treatment plant or electrical substation, utilities allowed under its existing zoning laws. But an opposition group contends that dozens of 400-foot-high turbines spread over hundreds of acres aren’t utilities, and has filed a lawsuit to force the town to create new zoning controls.
A judge will decide who’s right, and that ruling may send the town back to square one in the planning process for turbine development. If the ruling is made in favor of the town, the planning process will continue with the possibility of turbines being placed in the municipality’s river and lakefront districts, on waterfront property near Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River.
[Continue via the WDT archives]
Watertown Daily Times (Watertown, NY)
04/07/2007
The town of Cape Vincent sees proposed wind turbines just like a water treatment plant or electrical substation, utilities allowed under its existing zoning laws. But an opposition group contends that dozens of 400-foot-high turbines spread over hundreds of acres aren’t utilities, and has filed a lawsuit to force the town to create new zoning controls.
A judge will decide who’s right, and that ruling may send the town back to square one in the planning process for turbine development. If the ruling is made in favor of the town, the planning process will continue with the possibility of turbines being placed in the municipality’s river and lakefront districts, on waterfront property near Lake Ontario and the St. Lawrence River.
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Monday, April 2, 2007
Turbine foes file lawsuit
April 02, 2007
Turbine foes file lawsuit
(Watertown Daily Times (NY) (KRT) Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge) Mar. 31--CAPE VINCENT -- A citizens group opposed to a proposed wind farm here has mounted a legal challenge to the town's determination that the project qualifies as a utility under zoning law.
Wind Power Ethics Group filed an Article 78 petition Wednesday in state Supreme Court against the town's Zoning Board of Appeals and St. Lawrence Windpower LLC, the developer of the proposed 97-turbine project.
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Turbine foes file lawsuit
(Watertown Daily Times (NY) (KRT) Via Thomson Dialog NewsEdge) Mar. 31--CAPE VINCENT -- A citizens group opposed to a proposed wind farm here has mounted a legal challenge to the town's determination that the project qualifies as a utility under zoning law.
Wind Power Ethics Group filed an Article 78 petition Wednesday in state Supreme Court against the town's Zoning Board of Appeals and St. Lawrence Windpower LLC, the developer of the proposed 97-turbine project.
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Sunday, April 1, 2007
Wind Farm Meeting Moved Due To Crowd
I do not have the link to this post , however I am working on it.
By Kelly Vadney
Publication: Watertown Daily Times
(Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 04/01/2007
The town of Lyme’s debate on a wind power moratorium Saturday drew enough residents to be moved, physically.
When the crowd formed a line outside the municipal building’s meeting room, the Town Council relocated the session less than a mile down the road, to the fire hall. There, about 80 people listened to arguments for and against a moratorium on wind farm development. A moratorium would put development on hold while the council adopts zoning for turbines.
[Continue via the WDT archives]
By Kelly Vadney
Publication: Watertown Daily Times
(Watertown, NY)
Publication Date: 04/01/2007
The town of Lyme’s debate on a wind power moratorium Saturday drew enough residents to be moved, physically.
When the crowd formed a line outside the municipal building’s meeting room, the Town Council relocated the session less than a mile down the road, to the fire hall. There, about 80 people listened to arguments for and against a moratorium on wind farm development. A moratorium would put development on hold while the council adopts zoning for turbines.
[Continue via the WDT archives]
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