BP considering different turbines for Cape

CAPE VINCENT — BP Wind Energy's Cape Vincent Wind Farm is evaluating other turbines to use in the wind farm, new project manager Peter A. Gross told the Planning Board.

"The project continues to be attractive to BP," he said during the board's meeting last week. "The fundamentals of the project are still strong."

But other, newer turbine models could work better than the proposed GE 1.6-megawatt turbines. A change in model would require updates to the supplemental environmental impact statement, he said, which could take some time.

The board also heard a plan to expand Angel Rock Waterfront Cottages, 34311 Route 12E. Owners Daniel M. and Carol A. Thomas asked to erect 10 cottages on 3.9 acres they purchased adjacent to their lot, where there are 14 cottages.

The Planning Board discussed whether the project would qualify as commercial or multifamily housing. A commercial project would require 75-foot setbacks, while a project considered multifamily housing or "other use" under the zoning law requires 25-foot side setbacks. Three of the proposed cottages would be cut if the commercial designation were given.

"There's no store," Mr. Thomas said. "It's strictly residential."

Each cabin holds six to eight people.

"They'll be built as possible use for year-round, but they'll be approached as seasonal," Mrs. Thomas said. "We expect it to be full in the summer."

When the original cottages were built, they were considered "other use."

The definition of multifamily residences is a building for multiple families, board Chairman Richard J. Edsall said, so that wouldn't necessarily fit.

Three of the other board members said they were comfortable with considering it "other use."

The entire board of five agreed to request lead agency status for the state environmental quality review. The state departments of Health and Environmental Conservation must give permits, so also will be involved in the environmental review.