Board of supervisors advances proposed changes to wind ordinance

SIOUX CITY, Iowa (KCAU) — After another week of discussion, the Woodbury County Board of Supervisors is advancing proposed changes to how the county regulates commercial wind energy conversion systems.

After citizen input and discussion by the board, a second public hearing on the proposed revisions passed 5-0. Proposed changes to the wind ordinance include the application process, design standards, as well as setbacks and protected areas.

Nearly everyone attending Tuesday’s meeting said they oppose wind energy expansion.

“I don’t want to look at them,” resident Jana Martins said. “I don’t want to wake up in the morning and see the red lights. I don’t think we benefit from the electricity.”

“If there is a problem with turbines that everyone is so scared to death of… you drive across the state of Iowa, you see turbines every place,” resident David Cooper said.

The supervisors agreed that more discussion about wind energy expansion is needed. A third and final reading of the ordinance amendments is set for next Tuesday, Oct. 1 at 4:45 p.m. during the next supervisors meeting.

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