Local News
Council tables wind farm plan
CONNEAUT — Legislation that could sell nearly 160 acres of city-owned land for a possible wind farm was tabled at Monday’s City Council meeting.
Councilman-at-Large Chris Castrilla tabled the measure, in its third and final reading, after three members opposed amending the contract to include concessions recently agreed to by SGR Site Associates of Willoughby.
The legislation would approve a two-year option agreement with SGR for the land, which abuts the state line. SGR representatives have said the city land is needed primarily to connect larger parcels to the north and south.
SGR wants to learn whether the land would be a good site for wind turbines. A battery of feasibility tests, taking two years to complete, would follow. If the results are good, the contract would allow SGR to purchase the land for $2,400 an acre.
SGR would not erect the turbines but instead market the land to utility companies. The contract would guarantee the construction of 20 turbines on the Ohio side of the property.
Negotiations on the proposed sale began months ago. Some on council are unhappy with the contract, believing the asking price is too low compared to offers made to neighboring landowners. Others favor leasing the land.
Ward 1 Councilman Dave Campbell, who voted against the amendment, said council did SGR a disservice by tabling the measure. The company deserves an answer and a chance to revise its offer.
The other councilmen who opposed the amendment, Ward 2’s Charles Lewis and Ward 3’s Greg Mooney, also explained their vote. A statement from SGR’s Ron Gainar — who last week said it is unlikely any turbines will be built on the city land — made up Lewis’ mind, he said.
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