Ordinances to Get Second Look

Wind Turbine Ordinance Tabled
Reported by: Gwen Siewert
Last Update: 11/16 8:58 pm

from kimt.com

AUSTIN---A vote was scheduled for Austin's City Council, on a proposed wind turbine ordinance, in the city. It would allow turbines, with several restrictions to be placed in industrial parks and commercial areas, but 350 feet away from residential buildings.

The ordinance did pass on a 6-3 vote in the Planning and Zoning meeting.

But Monday's council never saw a vote on the issue, it was tabled on the overwhelming support of some concerned residents. A lot of people showed up to voice their disagreement with the ordinance, though it wasn't a public hearing.

Many council members left the discussions concerned the draft was using arbitrary numbers and distances.

Leader of a group of concerned folks from Oak Park Village, Leo Kerling says, one the turbines hoping to be put up is too close to residential areas, "In addition to the noise, and the sight, we just don't think it should be allowed, it's residential on three sides around us. So that was our main concern."

Others living at Oak Park Village say they are pleased the ordinance will get another look and some figures will become more concrete. Council members also stated they didn't want to move so quickly on a "poorly drafted or worded ordinance."