Jul 23, 2008 2 min read

It was quite troubling to read in the July 17 edition that PPM Atlantic Renewable Energy Corp. has offered to pay scholarship money to Fayette County because their wind project was not approved by the county zoning hearing board. This type of payment, as Commissioner Angela M. Zimmerlink noted, is just a gratuity that has nothing to do with the laws of Fayette County. Offering scholarship money cannot be used to address height and setback issues, for which the special exception was denied. If the zoning says no towers greater than 250 feet, then there is a legal process which should be followed. Offering and/or accepting scholarship money in exchange for the variance is simply not comprehended within the law.

Another concern regards the role that Gary Verkleeren, senior business developer for PPM Atlantic Renewable/Iberdrola Renewables, plays as a member of the Fayette County Planning Commission. While he does have extensive experience in wind development, his personal involvement in this wind project would surely affect his role as a member of the planning commission.

Verkleeren is quoted as saying, “I live in Fayette County, the project was conceived to benefit Fayette County. We wouldn’t do it if it wasn’t for the greater good.” It might be better said that this project was conceived to benefit wind developers who live in Fayette County.

Laura Jackson

Everett