Rules for Wind Power

A request by a tree farmer to install a 120-foot-tall wind turbine on his Long Lane, East Hampton, property has demonstrated that the Town of East Hampton is in need of guidelines for where and how such things are placed. Stephen Mahoney is seeking state and town permits to have the electricity-generating turbine installed on his 20-acre parcel. But the plan has drawn opposition from neighbors and others who want to preserve their views or are concerned about health and safety risks.

The specific location of Mr. Mahoney’s proposed wind turbine has been criticized because it is among many acres that were preserved with taxpayer money and that have been officially designated as scenic. At 120 feet tall, the turbine would tower over all that it is near. Mr. Mahoney should be allowed his turbine, but he should be asked to compromise on a height more acceptable to those who enjoy the view as it is.

The town, however, has no specific regulations governing such projects, though there have been calls for them over the years. This leaves the town board in the unusual position of becoming involved in a land-use decision, something otherwise reserved for other, less political boards, such as planning and zoning. Rules for wind power should be adopted before any additional projects are reviewed.