This area of the state is beautiful, and keeping the water and air clean enhances that beauty. Renewable energy sources, such as wind energy, are going to become more and more prevalent as fossil fuels and nuclear power are losing credibility with the public. Showcasing an environmentally clean energy source would create a positive image of our community.

This fast growing area of the state has a greater demand for electricity than ever before. The electricity generated here will be used in 12,000 homes in the area of the wind farm. 

The issue of stray voltage is a serious one for participating farmers. Many have had stray voltage problems in the past and they would not compromise their dairy herds for this project. Electrical expert, Tom Beane, who has worked with local farmers on their stray voltage problems, has assured the dairymen in person and in a letter dated November 2, 1999 that "I am confident that this wind farm installation will have no electrical effect on the surrounding dairy farms."

Steve M. Ugoretz, DNR energy team leader for the DNR, said that various environmental impact studies done on the wind farms have found that they have little or no impact on the environment and wildlife in the area.

The residents in Kewaunee County are also proud of their wind farm. According to project director, Scott Carmody, the few initial issues, such as poor TV reception, have been resolved since operation began in June. Many neighboring residents have realized that their initial fears proved to be unfounded.

Farmers play a very important economic role in the Addison community supporting local businesses and paying taxes. They have been blessed working rich farmland for generations and provide food for the world. Now, they’ve been given an opportunity to harvest the wind as a clean, renewable energy source. 

Many farmers have opened their land to hunters, snowmobile trails, visits from local school students on field trips, and community events, such as "Breakfast on the Farm." It’s important that all Addison residents support their decision to help the environment, generate additional local income, and reduce local taxes. 

There have been rumors floated by some opposed to the wind farm. For the record: The participating farmers will be paid for the use of their land. They will NOT receive a reduced rate or free electricity. They have NOT received free trips to Florida or anywhere else paid by FPL Energy. The farmers were invited to attend the ribbon cutting ceremony in Clear Lake, Iowa at the site of the Cerro Gordo Wind Farm on June 28^th. A handful attended and FPL Energy paid for their overnight hotel expenses.

In an effort to stop this project, some opposed are presenting false and misleading information. It’s important to make a decision based on facts and not fear. Wind turbines are safe and clean and pose no threat to our health and safety. 

To become more informed about wind power and other clean, safe sources of alternative energy on the Internet check out the list of websites below for more information.

If you signed a petition for the opposition based on misinformation and now support the wind farm, you may sign a form declaring your change of opinion.

The following is a list of members on the Town of Addison Plan Commission who will be deciding on issuing a Conditional Use Permit. Please contact them and show your support for the participating farmers, the Town of Addison, and the Wisconsin Wind Farm. 
 

Bob Bingen 5132 Hwy. 33 West  West Bend 53095  629-9780	Mary Aufdermauer 6558 Hillcrest Dr. Allenton 53002 629-5464
Leroy Infalt 4985 Level Rd. Hartford 53027 673-2064	Leigh Morris 6347 Watercress Allenton 53002  629-9986
Frank Novotny 6125 Hilltop Dr.  Allenton 53002 629-5905

To sign a petition in support of the farmers and FPL Energy to build a wind farm in the Town of Addison please call:  Ron Naab at 629-9749 Tim Ritger at 629-9066 Jerry Schroeder at 629-5335 Mark Proeber at 629-1514 Michael Richter at 414-350-5421(cell phone)