Thank you, Jason Jacobusse, for the recent heads up on the proposed Bent Tree Wind Power Project (industrial-sized wind turbines). I found out that my family and I live near the transmission area. The proposed site is northwest of Clarks Grove and the transmission line goes southeast to Hayward. I have started researching industrial wind turbines, and I have some concerns about one being located in my back yard. Will my property value be affected by the noise and the view of the turbines? Some say the turbines sound like a “shoe in the dryer” or “a jet engine that never goes anywhere.” Will I have to list “industrial wind plant” as a disclosure when I want to sell my home?

While researching I have found other communities with industrial wind plants who have seen their property values fall. While I wish it would be different for Freeborn County, I don‘t think it will. I think my property value will be affected. How much will depend on how close the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission allows Bent Tree Wind Power Project to locate these turbines from my home. In the draft permit, for review and comment, the setbacks are only 500 feet from a dwelling. I have heard these turbines are going to be almost 500 feet tall. I think 500 feet is way too close!

I would like to see one-mile setbacks from residential property lines. If you agree with me and would like to make a complaint to the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission about the small setbacks currently in the draft, please write a letter to: Larry B. Hartman 85 Seventh Place Ste 500 St. Paul, MN 55101-2198, before Dec. 3, 2008.

Katie V. Troe

Clarks Grove