SHERWOOD, MI (WTVB) – Those opposed to the siting of wind turbines in the northwestern part of Branch County got a major boost from the Sherwood Township Planning Commission Tuesday night.
The Planning Commission recommended on a 6-0 vote that the Township Board adopt an amendment to the Township Zoning Ordinance which would require a Special Use Permit for wind energy conversion systems.
It would also establish what some regard as stringent regulations and standards.
Sherwood Township officials have been dealing with the wind turbine issue for almost two years. A presentation was made by Dr. Sarah Mills of the University of Michigan last October regarding wind energy projects and the issues communities should consider.
Concerned Citizens of Branch County issued a statement on their Facebook page which said they applaud the Planning Commission in Sherwood Township for “protecting the health, safety and welfare of ALL Sherwood residents.”
DTE Energy has been looking at putting in wind turbines in five northwest Branch County townships in recent years. But the company announced plans in July to buy three new Michigan wind farms. Two of the wind farms are in Isabella County, the other is in Delta County in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
