Wind power is currently being promoted as a source of clean energy in Michigan, and perhaps in some applications such as utilizing smaller turbines for on-site use, this is true. However, there is another side of this issue that has consistently been ignored by our government as it bows to the political pressure of the wind lobby (whose pockets are lined with tax credits and government subsidies). There are numerous detrimental health effects and a lowering of quality of life on that hidden side.

These detrimental effects are well known and consistently suppressed by many wind energy advocates. But the ground swell is rising, and eventually they will have to acknowledge that the issues of low frequency noise, shadow flicker, ice fling, and decreased property values need to be addressed. Some townships and counties have seen through the smoke and mirrors and have written responsible ordinances to protect their citizens. Otsego County, for example, has a wind ordinance which, in my opinion, should be emulated throughout the state.

Currently, there is a proposed wind energy conversion system being debated in Rudyard Township. Our Planning Commission has developed a wind ordinance tailored more to fit the desires of an interested wind energy company (Half Moon Power LLC) than to protect the public. Moreover, several members of our Township Board and Planning Commission may stand to benefit financially from this project. On Tuesay, October 27, there will be a public hearing on the wind ordinance which has been proposed. Citizens interested in speaking at this hearing should call the township office to sign up. It will be interesting to see if public opposition will be suppressed so that this ordinance will be passed.

The political maneuvering of the wind energy proponents today are reminiscent of the days when corrupt timber barons manipulated the government land office and northern Michigan was laid waste to feed their greed. Let us not repeat this mistake as we look to a future with the possibility of rusting, 500-foot tall hulks, idled and littering our landscapes.
Timothy Presley
Rudyard