PC Commissioners extend wind farm moratorium through Oct. 19

The Phillips County Commissioners extended a moratorium on processing permits relating to construction of any wind farm system or facility in Phillip County. The moratorium is now in place until Oct. 19. The original moratorium was signed and put into place last October. At the time of its adoption six months ago, Phillips County Commissioner Terry Hofmeister said there hadn’t been a permit request in Phillips County yet, but there has been talk of interest.

Per the document extending the moratorium approved by County Commissioners in April, throughout the six month period, the commissioners will not take action on any applications for a permit for any wind farm development inside county lines. “The County supports harmonized development of commercial projects in Phillips County,” the document says. “And the development of solar farm facilities and operations could create development that is not harmonious with adjacent land uses and create adverse impacts to the general landscape, environment and public facilities.”

The Commissioners expressed intent to protect and preserve the environment and the public health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Philips county. “It is in the County’s best interest, consistent with the Land Use Act and the County Planning Cody, to study and incorporate zoning requirements pertaining to solar farm operations and facilities within Phillips County.”

While the moratorium is in place, the Commissioners plan to continue to research, review and study all issues related to wind farm systems and facilities and the possible impact to Philips County. Hopes are to properly prepare and adopt amendments to the existing zoning requirements, if necessary, relating to the allowance of this specific use of land in the county.

Several years ago, former County Commissioners worked to put policies and guidelines in place to regular wind farm facilities in Phillips County, however, those documents were never officially voted on and adopted. That said, without the moratorium, there are not documents currently in place to regulate such facilities should a permit application be submitted.

At the time of the adoption of the original moratorium last fall, Hofmeister said Phillips County is one of the few in northeast Colorado who has yet to have a wind farm site. While he didn’t express his interest one way or another, he said it is vital that Phillips County have regulations in place should there be interest.

No applications on any development of solar farm facilities and operations may be filed, accepted or processed in Phillips County throughout the six-months span of the moratorium. If the Commissioners find the six month period too long, or too brief, the County may shorten or extend the time of the evaluation and adoption period.