08/12/2009 Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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Mr. Lasko moved, seconded by Mr. Malone to recommend that North Olmsted City Council adopt Ordinance 2009-63, as the ordinance is needed to regulate and control the future instillation and use of wind energy conversion systems which serves a worthwhile public purpose; which was unanimously approved 7-0. The Commission also includes the suggested modifications for Council's consideration and inclusion. Mrs. Meredith said with escalating fuel costs and environmental impacts, renewable energy sources are a desirable alternative for homeowners and businesses. As more individuals look to alternate sources of energy, including wind, it is imperative we be prepared with regulations necessary to protect residents while balancing the rights of all property owners, which is the basis of Chapter 1153. When looking at the proposed WECS Chapter as compared to similar ordinances in other cities, it is very conservative. North Olmsted needs to look to the future or our housing values will continue to decline and more storefronts will become vacant. Although she doubts many homeowners will take advantage of installing a wind turbine, it shows prospective buyers that the city is progressive. Chapter 1153 with the recommended changes will provide the guidelines necessary to better the city while imposing regulations which will protect the health and welfare of its residents. Mr. Lasko noted that the Landmarks Commission made a motion in support of Ordinance 2009-63 at their August 10 meeting. Ordinance No. 2009-63 An ordinance creating new chapter 1153 (Wind Energy Conversion Systems) of the North Olmsted Zoning Code in order to permit and establish regulations for the use of Wind Energy Conversion Systems (WECS) in the City of North Olmsted. Note: PDC tabled 6/10/09 & 7/8/09 Ms. Wenger said the ordinance establishes a new chapter of the zoning code which would regulate wind energy conversion systems. At the Commission meetings of June 10 and July 8, the Commission reviewed each section of the proposed chapter, discussed the zoning language generally, and took public comments. The Commission identified a number of potential areas for amendments. Staff drafted zoning language to address the Commission's concerns: 1153.01 Reinforce in the Intent that the process outlined in the chapter is required 1153.02 Eliminated references to maximum wattage for small, medium and building integrated WECS 1153.03 Allow flexibility for different types of WECS design, subject to PDC review; link noise standards to noise control chapter 555; more explicitly describe requirements for braking systems 1153.04 Add word "only" 1153.05 Also consider word "only" 1153.06 Clarify the different design possibilities and review procedures for building integrated WECS 1153.07 Clarify Landmarks Commission review for COA if WECS proposed in a historic district; show location of easements; require certification of independent testing agency; require submission of maintenance plan and annual maintenance reports; specify amounts of liability insurance 1153.09 Impose cost of removal of WECS on applicant througli bond Mr. O'Malley said the Commission can not base their recommendation to adopt Ordinance 2009- 63 upon the inclusion of the recommended amendments. However, the commission can offer the 7