Postscripts on vote against offshore wind

Here are a few side notes from last night's meeting where Jefferson County legislators unanimously voted against the possibility of an offshore wind power project in waters off the county in Lake Ontario. New York Power Authority is seeking proposals from developers to site up to 500 megawatts of wind turbines in Lake Ontario and Lake Erie.

Public Outbursts

The crowd of about 60 people at the Jefferson County legislature meeting were mostly respectful during the hour that Richard M. Kessel, president and chief executive officer of New York Power Authority, explained the proposal for 40-166 turbines.

But they got restless when Mr. Kessel said the turbines anchored in the lakebed could serve as a positive for fishing – improving the spawning as they act as reefs. He said that's been the experience in Europe.

Legislator Barry M. Ormsby, R-Belleville, said aesthetics is an important issue for the region.

“Apart from agriculture, we survive on tourism, tourism and tourism,” he said.

Mr. Kessel responded, “This would be a huge tourist attraction.”

That ignited laughs and boos from the crowd.

After the 14-0 vote by the legislature to oppose the project, the crowd erupted in applause.

Young Opposition

Those opposing the offshore wind power proposal from the New York Power Authority included some young people.

Jacob Cornell, a seventh-grader from Sandy Creek Central School District, attended the Jefferson County legislature meeting on Tuesday night. He brought with him a petition against the possibility of turbines in eastern Lake Ontario, signed by 36, or about half, of those in his grade.

“Something inside me told me it's wrong, it's not for the environment,” he said.

What's Next

The Oswego County Board of Legislators will entertain a similar resolution during its meeting at 2 p.m. Thursday on the fourth floor of the county office building, 46 E. Bridge St., Oswego.