Braun brothers' wind turbine on York Township centennial farm cited for zoning violation
Howard and Kelven Braun in front of their York Township farm.
Lisa Allmendinger | AnnArbor.com
Kelven and Howard Braun of York Township are following in their father’s footsteps by adding new technology to their farming operation.
“My father was that way; he liked to try something new,” Howard Braun said.
The brothers, Kelven, 76, and Howard, 77, not only continue to farm 500 acres of cash crops themselves, but also have added another green element to their centennial farm on Bemis Road — a 100-foot wind turbine, which will help them save on energy costs in the future.
“It’s the first one in the township,” Kelven said, and is located on one of the highest points in York with the capacity to kick in when the wind blows at 5.5 miles per hour. “It’s direct drive," he said.
They placed a wind meter on a silo for six months to gauge the wind velocity and found it averaged 15-16 miles per hour on the site.
The Braun brothers are dwarfed by their 100-foot wind turbine that sits in the center of their York Township farm.
Lisa Allmendinger | AnnArbor.com
Manufactured by Polaris Company of New Jersey, the brothers bought it from dealer Jim Kovolac of Willis through his company called Earth Green Energy.
“The top part weighs 14,000 pounds,” Howard said, adding that the neighbors have told the brothers that they love it.
Although the brothers have permits for the base and underground wiring, the township has cited them for a zoning ordinance violation and currently, township officials refuse to give the Brauns a final inspection certificate, they said.
This is not the first run-in the brothers have had with York Township officials. Twice in the past few years the brothers have had to hire an attorney and appear in court to defend themselves. Both times they won.
The brothers successfully fought York Township to keep their name in lights on two 75-foot tall silos, and recently, they prevailed on the same issue in the appeals court.
The brothers' battles with the township date back several years when Washtenaw County District Court Judge Richard Conlin found the lights, which spell out “H&K Braun Farms,” and “100 Years Plus," are part of the permanent structures on the farm and thus do not violate York Township’s sign ordinance.
The township disagreed and appealed the decision, losing again in September; this time in Circuit Court Judge Timothy Connors' court room.
Lights on one of the two Braun brother's silos.
Lisa Allmendinger | AnnArbor.com
Mary Hess, a Saline resident, has been a strong supporter of the brothers’ efforts to fight the township, calling them “the best neighbors Saline could have.” She said the brothers’ farmland serves as a greenbelt around the city.
In fact, she helped get more than 700 signatures on a petition supporting the longtime farmers and their quest to leave the commemorative lights.
“In every way, they are the best stewards of their land,” Hess said, “And great friends to the Saline community.”
Lisa Allmendinger is a regional reporter for AnnArbor.com. She can be reached at lisaallmendinger@annarbor.com. For more Saline stories, visit our Saline page.
Comments
the leprachaun
Sun, Oct 2, 2011 : 7:26 p.m.
Typical York Township
Tina Ferraro
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 2:40 p.m.
Have you seen this farm? It's beautiful! The house is impeccably maintained, the fields a thing of argricultural beauty. Why do they keep harassing these men? The sign on the silo is tastefully done, as is everything on their property and I had not even noticed the wind turbine until this morning when I passed by on my way to work and specifically looked for it because of this article. They should be commended and praised for their family's stewardship of this land for over 100 years (and encouraged to proclaim that on their silo, if that's their desire) and for their forward thinking with the installation of the wind turbine.
Dr. I. Emsayin
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 1:37 p.m.
Please look at this trailer about shadow flicker and the related trailers. Look at the trailer for Windfall. Lots of noise and light pollution and health issues related to turbines... and it is all about the money for the landowner and energy salespeople. <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKwaEvvrLPE&feature=related" rel='nofollow'>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKwaEvvrLPE&feature=related</a>
jcj
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 6:05 p.m.
Are you talking about 400 ft high commercial generators? Or 100 ft high like this one. I never said build them anywhere you want. I don't want to live next door to a McDonald's, a truck stop, or a school. Should we not build those also? I am talking specifically about this 100 ft high turbine on a 500 acre farm!
Dr. I. Emsayin
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 3:35 p.m.
You need to see a city, town or county where they abound and what the truth is behind the promotion of windmills; it's more complicated and less wonderful than most would imagine.
jcj
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 2:47 p.m.
So you see a problem here with this turbine on THEIR property. They live on a farm for crying out loud! Who is going to hear whatever noise this make except them? Who is going to have a problem with shadow flicker? I suspect your dogs create more noise pollution for your neighbors than this will for theirs! Maybe we should ban dogs!
KJMClark
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 3 a.m.
Turns out the Township passed an ordinance revision effective July of last year. Here it is: <a href="http://twp-york.org/publication_by_posting/ORD%20133%20Amending%20Zoning%20Ord-Wind%20Energy.pdf" rel='nofollow'>http://twp-york.org/publication_by_posting/ORD%20133%20Amending%20Zoning%20Ord-Wind%20Energy.pdf</a>. It's on the publications/postings section of the York Township website. Maybe they should have called it the "Braun-Brothers-want-to-build-a-windmill-so-we'd-better-update-our-zoning" ordinance. It's hard to tell what they don't like about the Braun's windmill. It seems OK under most of the ordinance. But then there's the "shadow flicker" rule: "[Windmill] owners shall be responsible for any off-site impacts from the visible shadow flicker effect when rotating blades of the wind generator cast shadows on the ground and nearby structures during daylight hours, causing a repeating pattern of light and shadow:" and "[Windmills] shall be located within the subject parcel so as to prevent shadow flicker from passing over any off-site road right-of-way, occupied dwelling or other principal building during daylight hours from one (1) hour after sunrise to one (1) hour before sunset:" and "Three (3) or more documented complaints of shadow flicker passing over any off-site road right-of-way, occupied dwelling or other principal building received and verified by the Zoning Inspector within any 365 calendar day period shall be grounds for the Township to require that the WECS unit be shut down and secured against movement during the hours and seasons of the year when such off-site impacts have occurred." Ie. if your windmill casts a shadow, we'll shut you down! Wow.
Trouble
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 10:07 p.m.
I would like to know how much York township taxpayers have paid to take these farmers to court. (And Lost) The township officials should not guess, but KNOW the law before taking people to court. When you look at this matter in total context, one of the most beautiful farms in the country, pristine in every way, it is amazing how the official of York Twp. continually take these farmers to court on petty matter. I as do many believe it is time for a change in York Twp. government and enforcement. Common sense should take precedent.
scott
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 10:16 p.m.
The twp lawyer told the board members they were in a losing battle. Then Joe (supervisor), without the boards approval, went and appealed the verdict! He should be paying for this lawsuit with his elected board seat and his personal check book!
scott
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:23 p.m.
Ha....What a joke York Township is. These two followed the regulations as York wrote the regs for windmills of this type! H&K beat them in court the other day and when they got home they then got sited for Violations. Now the twp wants a fence around the structure! These guys have over 20 DTE High Voltage poles cutting thru this same parcel without any barrier. These poles and the new wind turbine pole have built in steps above what can be touched at ground level. These two were at the meetings and followed the ridiculous steps that our twp kept adding to the newly designed regs for wind turbine use. The twp even over charged these two(in the thousands$$) for the permit fees to proceed and order the turbine. Nothing this township has done lately has helped out two of their best citizens. I was at a meeting where these idiots(board members) wanted to add a zoning ordinance that would have mandated a light of some sort that could be seen by the road to tell if the wind mill was active! It was brought to the boards attention that a wind mill spins around and if its rotating then it is working no light needed! This board has actively worked against this new turbine, green energy and the Brauns, rather than working with the Brauns and the manufacture or eventhe state to figure out the best ways to write the new regulations. I hope for the sake of all citizens in York and their taxes that we replace or remove each and every individual on the board!
speedy71568
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:19 p.m.
While it seems mean and almost like harassment towards the Braun's the true fact of the matter is whether we like it or not we all have rules and regulations we need to follow in our everyday lives. Just because they are nice elderly gentlemen does not put them above the rules and regulations that everyone has to follow. I know that for a fact most of the people complaining here would be the first ones on the phone to the Township if their neighbor started storing garbage or junk cars in their yards. Really this is not different, just rules that have to be followed by everyone. Unfortunately, we can not pick and choose who has to abide by the rules and who doesn't. Would you rather the Township Officials sit back and not enforce anything ever?? Additionally, I do agree that the Braun's farm is beautiful and the disagreements are unfortunate but we all have the same rules.
KJMClark
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 3:09 a.m.
Actually, I kind of have a problem with the township passing an ordinance the year before the Brauns' windmill goes up. It really sounds to me like the township got wind of the plans and decided they should update their ordinance to make it more difficult. (Sorry about the pun!) And what's with the "shadow flicker" rule??? Sounds to me like the township is looking for a way to stick it to them.
sellers
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 1:03 a.m.
I don't think the rules are really the question at play, it's how the township is dealing with the brothers, and instead of working 'with' them they are trying to bully them - at least that is the impression presented in public.
Heardoc
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:49 p.m.
this is nothing more than bureaucrats and elected officials that are upset that a citizen has reminded them that the CITIZEN is ALWAYS in charge! The courts have told these same bureaucrats that the citizen was correct and that the bureaucrats were wrong. Had the same thing here in Superior townshhip -- Still need to get rid of McFarlane though -- seems he has been here too long.
heraclitus
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:14 p.m.
If Bill McFarlane was supervisor in York, this whole mess would have never happened. He's a good supervisor.
aareader
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:29 p.m.
The "concerned" township officials should read "The Third Industrial Revolution" by Jeremy Rifkin. The Brauns are leading the way to the next economy by producing alternative power generated on their own farm. We are looking at the future and I expect they may be adding solar panels next. Very exciting! I make the prediction that within 10 years we will see a lot more farms in the area doing the same thing... becoming energy independent, saving big dollars AND selling the excess power back for a profit. Those township officials, instead of fighting innovation, should be promoting it!
sellers
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:27 p.m.
Dear Braun brothers, touch base with the Saline City Council, I'm sure Saline would be happy to discuss options to annex your farm and remove York Twp's concerns. Good luck and enjoy the power.
scott
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:25 p.m.
The taxes are way too high in the city of Saline to incorporate the farm land. Would not be beneficial although sounds like good decision.
Clay Dowling
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:26 p.m.
Keep stickin' it to The Man, Braun Brothers. Making efficient use of available resources makes good sense, and since it's in the middle of their farm, it's hard to see how somebody else could be hurt by the windmills. We need more of these windmills here, not less, and more people who fight petty local officials.
Salinemary
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:11 p.m.
Way to go Kelven and Howard Braun! Stick to your guns.
iamwrite
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:07 p.m.
@Stupid Hick "Although the brothers have permits for the base and underground wiring, the township has cited them for a zoning ordinance violation and currently, township officials refuse to give the Brauns a final inspection certificate, they said." I have read this article multiple times, and no where do I see that, "The issue is the Brauns' refusal to agree to an annual inspection, they said." Do you know something that AA.com does not? If I were the Braun's, I would stick up for my personal property rites as well! Is York Township a regulated body that is able to provide non-biased annual inspections of wind mills? Not that I know of. If the Braun's give in, then they allow York Township to go to any property and inspect wind mills once a year. Who is going to pay for the inspections? What standards are used when conducting the inspection? If the inspection does not pass, what happens then? The Braun's have good lawyers, and it sounds like they are not going to sign anything that does not protect their rites as property owners. Go HK Braun Farms!!! I support you!!!
Stupid Hick
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:59 p.m.
'I have read this article multiple times, and no where do I see that, "The issue is the Brauns' refusal to agree to an annual inspection, they said." Do you know something that AA.com does not?' Well, I cut-and-pasted from the article itself, but now I see the final sentence about refusal to agree to annual inspections is no longer there! Did the reporter update the article? I hope annarbor.com will follow up with an article which explains clearly what the dispute is really about.
scott
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:28 p.m.
The board wants these inspections to be done by Mr Carl Girbach and paid for by the property owners. Even though he knows nothing about wind turbines! At least this was how they had it written at the last meeting I sat thru.
Rob Skrobola
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8 p.m.
"The issue is the Brauns' refusal to agree to an annual inspection" So, they've had the proper inspections. They've had the proper licenses. Everything is in order. They just don't want to have a bunch of EXTRA inspections. Good grief. Leave these guys alone. The turbine is nowhere near anyone else. They could put another 30 of them, and it would still be nowhere near anyone else. Just stop it, York Township. Rob
scott
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:40 p.m.
Nope the township added that to the regulations also. If I remember correctly. Only 2 Windmills on any on parcel larger than 5 acres. Or something to that effect.
Stupid Hick
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 7:50 p.m.
Numerous commenters question which ordinance the Brauns are violating, and some even suggest that York Township is either against windmills, or simply pursuing a personal vendetta against the Brauns. From the article: "Although the brothers have permits for the base and underground wiring, the township has cited them for a zoning ordinance violation and currently, township officials refuse to give the Brauns a final inspection certificate, they said. The issue is the Brauns' refusal to agree to an annual inspection, they said." Could this be a clue about the reason for the conflict? The township issued permits for the windmill's base and infrastructure. That implies to me the township, in principle, is ok with the windmill. The stated problem, according to the township, is "the Brauns' refusal to agree to an annual inspection". Why are so many comments fixated on everything besides the stated problem?
Rob Skrobola
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:04 p.m.
This is a place where the article is deficient. Does everyone that builds anything in York Township have to have an annual inspection? If not, sounds like they are targeting stuff they don't like. Like...Windmills. Or the Brauns. A perfectly reasonable speculation on their motives. But given that they DO NOT do annual inspections on all things built in York Twp (they don't), it's obvious this item is being given special treatment. Rob
KLK
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 7:48 p.m.
I noticed the turbine yesterday for the first time. I hear it can produce enough electricity for 75 households. What a great idea to install it at their farm. It might not be the only one in the township in the future.
Clay Dowling
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:28 p.m.
Let's hope a bunch of them go up. Michigan has wind in abundance. Why not use it to generate our power, rather than oil and gas? I can't see a downside here.
Tesla
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 7:02 p.m.
I don't know these fellers but they are awesome! They have a beautiful farm too. Put me in the support column.
Marilyn Wilkie
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 9:26 p.m.
Any support from you would be like the kiss of death for them.
Billy Buchanan
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 5:19 p.m.
Congratulations Howard and Kelven. We know the people stand with you after viewing the comments that's been posted concerning this article. Now, what amazes me is why the people of York Township don't have a recall and kick supervisor 'Joe Zorski' out of office for wasting taxpayers' money. When it's oblivious he's only taking the actions against the Braun (specific members of York Township) brothers because he has a hubris that won't allow him to accept the fact he's wrong in his deeds and actions against Howard and Kelven. I'm just surprised Zorski and the township haven't been sued by the Braun brothers for the harassment Zorski's put the through.
KIKIPIE
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:37 p.m.
You go guys! You are showing us all that you can have innovative ideas at any age. You are on top of our "green" future and I, for one, commend you both. Keep fighting.
Dr. I. Emsayin
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 3:45 p.m.
People who erect wind turbines on their property make about 10K to 15K per year, per turbine. Sales people for the turbines are fast talking, deal-making salesmen who want a quick signature that does not allow people to think twice or to back out - ever! Neighbors who might suffer from windt urbine syndrome (windturbinesyndrome.com) or shadow flicker (imagine a strobe light in your house or in your yard whenever the sun is behind the turbine) have no recourse. Neighbors in other communities were paid a few thousand dollars BEFORE the turbines went up to restrict their ability to ever speak out against the problems caused by turbines (which includes awful noise when they are icy, severe headaches, sleeplessness due to noise, and inability to enjoy their yard or open their shades during the day because of shadow flicker. Wind turbines are not necessary or particularly useful but the state requires a certain number of "alternative energy" solutions from energy companies to be compliant. Turbines do not help local citizens unless you are the citizen making money by having one installed on your property. Benzie County is fighting hard to keep the turbines from marring their landscape and causing medical and neighbor issues. Do not assume that all that is called green really is green (except the cash made by the property owner and turbine salesmen).
Michisbest
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 5:16 p.m.
I looked at this website it's just an adverisement for a book another of those it has to be true I read it on the internet things.
Clay Dowling
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:37 p.m.
What's wrong with somebody wanting to pick up a spare $10k / year in exchange for use of a small patch of land? Sounds like a great idea to me. I was just in the thumb wind farms: they're beautiful. The first approach to one of them was intimidating, but in a matter of a couple of minutes I found them less imposing than a lot of other things on the same landscape, like factories, Lake Huron, and grain elevators. And a lot less likely to do me harm than those things too.
jcj
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:39 p.m.
Get your fact straight concerning the type of turbine on this property!
John of Saline
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:07 p.m.
I think you're talking about utility-scale turbines erected by energy companies. This is not the case here; it's larger than a traditional farm windmill, but MUCH smaller than the utility turbines being installed in, say Michigan's Thumb area. I've seen the blades of those suckers go by on special trucks on Michigan Avenue, just a few hundred yards from the Braun farm. Each blade is easily longer than the Braun turbine is tall!
PittsfieldTwp
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 3:55 p.m.
I think most of us do ont assume all green is green, and some of the neighbor issues you mention are valid. But have you seen this windmill on this farm? Its not bothering any humans except those on the farm.
PittsfieldTwp
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 3:32 p.m.
Growing up in LA in the 70's there were hundreds of oil pumps, towers, and rigs all over. In urban areas, beaches, hills, industrial parks, nature preserves, neighborhoods, etc. Two farmers put up a scenic windmill on a scenic farm and get slapped.
John of Saline
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:04 p.m.
LA is weird that way, because of the oil underfoot. I remember walking off the sidewalk near the tar pits and getting my shoe stuck in the tar oozing through the grass!
annarborfan
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 3:24 p.m.
Saline is hungry for money and they are picking on the wrong people. Why did Saline spend all that money making a sidewalk in the country and destroying 100 year old trees in front of a centennial farm and just to stick it to em' Saline put a curb in front of their farm house out in the middle of nowhere - though nowhere else along the walk is there a damn curb. Saline has always thought they were better then others, though there board (consisting of a handful of people) make all the wrong decisions. Cities should be handled by the citizens of the City.
John of Saline
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:03 p.m.
This article is about York Township. The sidewalk you speak of is in Pittsfield Township, I believe: <a href="http://www.pittsfieldtwp.org/lohr-textile-greenway.html" rel='nofollow'>http://www.pittsfieldtwp.org/lohr-textile-greenway.html</a> None of this is City of Saline.
PittsfieldTwp
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 3:57 p.m.
York Township has the issue. Not Saline. The neighbors across the street are Saline, but they aren't voicing the concern.
Bogie
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 3:04 p.m.
This is one of those times, when people get to see "progressivism" true colors. They say, "Go Green," but do it with my authorization and the way, I want you to do it. Better yet, don't do it yourself; we will do it for you (for an astronomical amount of money- my brother earl, needs a "govt. job"). Talk about control freaks. Hassling ederly men, and using our tax dollars to do it! I don't live in York township, but I do ask the residents to "throw the bums out!"
towny
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 2:28 p.m.
The Next township meeting at York had better be packed and alot of questions asked. Wake up residents of York township look where your taxpayer dollars are going.
ffej440
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 2:24 p.m.
Even if the ordinance was printed, you probobly wouldn't understand it. Only a lawyer can make any sense out of the mess we call local zoning. The worst part of zoning is the select enforcement used around Washtenaw county. One person gets a citation for something the rest of the area does every day. If everyone had to follow ALL the rules we would soon agree there are too many restrictions placed on us.
Go Blue
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 2:23 p.m.
Clearly this is a personal vendetta by someone employed by York Township. Its a frivolous waste of taxpayer funds and should be investigated. The Braun brothers need to get their attorney to countersue for harassment. The township residents need to vote out the old and in with those that can be nonjudgmental and leave their personal prejudices at home. If that's the biggest issue the township has to deal with then maybe so many positions are not necessary.
unclemercy
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 2:11 p.m.
as a younger resident of the area i am proud that there are local people like these for me to look up to.
towny
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 2:19 p.m.
Can not say it better.
DBlaine
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 2:10 p.m.
What is the "zoning ordinance violation" that the brothers are cited with? Seems to be a key element of the story was left out.
Morph the Cat
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 1:39 p.m.
The misgudied efforts of the York Township 'officals' raises serious questions about their motives and integrity. Whose ego are they trying to pacify? They (York Township) apparently have nothing better to do than spend their constituents tax dollars on frivolous lawsuits. Where is the backbone of the York Township residents? To the brothers Braun ... please don't give in to the dictatoship that is York Township, and if it makes economic sense, please erect a second wind turbine.
towny
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 1:36 p.m.
Carl Girbach is the zoning inspector in York township. He has cited the Braun brothers before and lost in court which has cost the taxpayers of York township money. Supervisor Joe Z. has appointed Girbach he is not elected. The residents of York township need to get together it is time for a change. Enough of this type of politics. The Braun Brothers have a beautiful farm and good standing in the community and I can not help but wonder if this is not a personal issue with the township officials now.
heraclitus
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 1:19 p.m.
I drive up and down Bemis Road regularly and love to pass the Braun Farm because its a classic Michigan Diary Farm in Norman Rockwell condition. thankfully the Braun's have generously donated the development rights to the State of Michigan and the citizens of Saline and York will have this beautiful beacon of the past to gazed upon for generations to come. It's seems obvious that York Township officials should be working with these guys. Suing to remove the signs and windmill is just a waste of money. Work it out!
Wolf's Bane
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:59 p.m.
Les Gov said it all: "In Washtenaw County it depends who you are. The rules are different for different people." I have seen this in action time and time again. Kelven and Howard Braun should be honored, not cited.
glimmertwin
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:55 p.m.
I have a feeling that if some of Ann Arbor's "aggressive panhandlers" hung out around this farm, these brother's would introduce them to some real work.
xmo
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:50 p.m.
It sounds like we have a lot of "Extra Government" which could easily be cut without hurt service levels for theirs residents.
Ron Granger
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:49 p.m.
I have family members whose properties would be ideal for wind turbines. But wind turbines make noise - morning, noon and night. Many of us would like the energy, but we don't want the noise. And we don't want it spoiling the view, potentially for miles and miles. Both can lower property values. It is no different in any other township or county - you need to follow the approval process. In many cases, we do need new rules and regulations to cover wind turbines. If the township ignored this case, then they risk losing their ability to enforce zoning in other cases because people would claim uneven enforcement or bias. If you ignore this case, what's to stop someone from putting 50 of them up? How about people in dense subdivisions putting them up? I can assure you that you and your mortgage do not want your neighbors ignoring local zoning rules and laws with impunity. It would quickly turn into hillbillyville. Someday we may all have wind turbines, but that is not now. There are also safety concerns. Wind turbines do fail. When it happens it is often catastrophic. The head unit on this weighs 14,000 lbs. This is far from a traditional water pumping windmill.
pvitaly
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 7:56 p.m.
Ron, since you are such a pro at using Google, I figured you would've done some research on just how "loud" a wind turbine is. A wind turbine is not much louder than an air conditioner or a fridge. If my neighbor put up a wind turbine in her backyard, I would probably buy energy from her instead of DTE. I'd be thrilled. I wonder if your NIMBYism is as strong about fracking.
Stupid Hick
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 7:14 p.m.
Hear, hear! In the internet age, why do we still need zoning boards? Let's save tax money and just poll annarbor.com readers what they think is safe.
jcj
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 5:55 p.m.
This turbine is said to be 100ft high. I do not think any of the failure noted were under 300 ft high!
jcj
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 5:38 p.m.
While these have been described as "catastrophic failures". I do not consider the wind turbine failing in and of its self "catastrophic". How many injuries? A tree in a field can have a "catastrophic failure" Were those cited for single home generation?
Ron Granger
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:54 p.m.
Have you heard about this service they call google? It's amazing! You just type in the text describing what you're searching for. <a href="https://encrypted.google.com/search?q=catastrophic+wind+turbine+failure" rel='nofollow'>https://encrypted.google.com/search?q=catastrophic+wind+turbine+failure</a> <a href="http://www.windaction.org/releases/18394" rel='nofollow'>http://www.windaction.org/releases/18394</a> <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKOYObwBZLc" rel='nofollow'>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pKOYObwBZLc</a> <a href="http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x7709964" rel='nofollow'>http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x7709964</a> <a href="http://www.pardoe.net/abo/windfail.htm" rel='nofollow'>http://www.pardoe.net/abo/windfail.htm</a> Etc.
jcj
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:33 p.m.
Please Cite any.
jcj
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 4:31 p.m.
Please site some of the catastrophic falls.
seasons
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:32 p.m.
I applaud the efforts of these farmers! I am frustrated with the lack of information in the article. Please, please start doing some investigative reporting when reporting on such matters. What is the violation? If no specific violation can be cited or there is a specific violation that is being referred to by the township, then one of the key aspects of the story is missing. Aren't such codes a matter of public record? As it is, one can say how awful that these farmers seem to be victims of the township officials, but it would be better to know the facts.
True Facts
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:25 p.m.
This sounds like another battle that the supervisor (Joe Zorski??) has taken on to waste york twp money. This shows how important it is to vote in people with a education and not just someone who has time on there hands. It sounds like to me that York better not complain about money, if they have it to waste on things like this. Unreal!!! I hope AA.com lets us know the end result...
Plubius
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 1:43 p.m.
I agree - now please run for township supervisor. No time? Well, that is why we are stuck with intellectual giants like Joe Z and the other board members.
Christopher Sorel
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:24 p.m.
What is wrong with a windmill? Nothing I say and I live in the neighborhood next to the farm in Saline. I drive past the farm every day and say it looks good. Love the lighting on the silos as well. If someone wants to see something more crazy then take a drive up to Sarnia and head over to Canada then head north along the coast. We drove up to Sable Falls this summer and WOW!! I lost count on the amount of HUGE and I mean HUGE windmills that make this one seem small. They are all over in the fields along with huge solar panels. Plain in sinple it is WOW and cool to see them dot the lanscape.
grye
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:23 p.m.
Yep. Try to something right and the govt comes in and kicks you in the teeth.
Michisbest
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:18 p.m.
This is what's wrong with America from the Feds to the townships. Regulation run amok. This is one of the nicest frams in the State and causes no one probelms except the ones government creates for them. By the way Ann Arbor.com Bemis road has only one E in it. Probabaly more progressive spelling lessons.
ArthGuinness
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 4:30 p.m.
And potato doesn't have any E's. Dan Quayle, progressive hero.
OLDTIMER3
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:09 p.m.
I drive by there on a regular basis and didn't even notice the wind generator.It is one of the cleanest looking farms around. I think it is time for York residents to get some new officials, ones that don't throw their tax monies away.
Mike
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 11:59 a.m.
Don't try to figure out the government or the progressives who tend to be attracted to those "public service" jobs. They say they want green and then have a zoning law to stop you from being green??????????
Mike
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 8:09 p.m.
Clown - I'm writing more slowy this time so you can understand "government OR the progressives"; they may OR may not be progressive but they do tend to support alternate, sustainable energy. Don't know about York Twp. in particular but if they want money from Obama they better support it. What does that have to do with my assertion? A progressive would embrace green energy becasue it is the right thing to do to save the planet and a conservative would be more likely to weigh the economic viability before committing to it....does Solyndra ring a bell? Ted Kenedy was a progressive and yet he didn't want windmills to wreck his view of the ocean where most of the wind is. The rest of the wind is in Washington DC.
clownfish
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 12:47 p.m.
Can you cite evidence that York twp officials are "progressive"?
Sherry Knight
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 11:43 a.m.
We see it while out walking. It's impressive. Way to go, Kelven & Howard!
timbow
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 11:36 a.m.
I hope the Braun brothers don't consider putting up a fence that is 'non-historic' to keep the township off their property and their backs. My goodness - that would be just be the end of the world (or at least York Township)! Gentlemen - carry on. You are showing this generation how Americans are supposed to behave - don't buckle because someone stuck their toe under your boot and then started to cry.
KJMClark
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 10:45 a.m.
There's a big missing piece in this story. What zoning wording are they supposedly violating? It's like saying someone was charged with a misdemeanor without saying which law they supposedly broke. Since the township has gone after them before and lost, it sounds like the township is just being vindictive, but without knowing what the current zoning law says, it's impossible to know. This might also raise the question of whether 'wind farming' is an agricultural use covered under right to farm. If it is, then any farmer can put up any windmill without township approval. If it isn't, then local zoning applies. You also have to wonder about the old water pumping windmills. If those were OK, where's the line? Is a windmill OK to pump water but not make electricity? They're bound to use the electricity just like farms used pumped water in the past. They're probably using electricity to pump the water today. Is it just the height that's a problem? If so, we already allow smells from farming to drift past the farm - that's an accepted 'nuisance' under right to farm. The township would have to claim the windmill is a sight or sound nuisance, and either those are more of a problem than the smells, or they'd have to say right to farm only covers particular 'nuisances'. I hope the township gets spanked by the courts again, and has to pay the Braun's legal expenses for harassing them. We'll see.
Dr. I. Emsayin
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 2:11 p.m.
See "Windfall" trailer to understand some of the issues with how windmills get erected on certain properties.<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKwaEvvrLPE&feature=related" rel='nofollow'>http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CKwaEvvrLPE&feature=related</a>
scott
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 2:08 a.m.
Whats missing? The township now after the turbine is up, they have added conditions to the permit. They now want a bird study, fencing and landscaping. What a joke this board in York has become!
SalineMachine
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 10:40 a.m.
With everyone talking about tightening their belts these days, you'd think York wouldn't waste their tax payer's dollars on something so frivolous. C'mon they are actually doing something good! Who is the behind York's relentless attacks??
towny
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 1:08 p.m.
Carl Girbach is the zoning inspector in York and he is a little Hitler. He has went after the Braun's before and likes to waste the taxpayers money.
Les Gov
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 10:39 a.m.
This is just more proof that Washtenaw County and AA like to talk a good game about being so called "green". The problem here is simple, York Twp officials aren't making any money off of this. I drive by the farm all the time and didn't even realize the turbine was there. This turbine on 500 acres of land isn't causing anyone any problems. In Washtenaw County it depends who you are. The rules are different for different people. One home has to live under one set of rules while the home directly next door has to live under a different set of rules. I wonder why the so called inspectors see things differently depending which piece of property they are standing on?
KJMClark
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 10:49 a.m.
This has absolutely *nothing* to do with Ann Arbor or Washtenaw County. Couldn't resist getting a dig in on people who had nothing do to with it, huh?
Benjammin
Wed, Sep 28, 2011 : 10:21 a.m.
"In every way, they are the best stewards of their land," Hess said, "And great friends to the Saline community." - this is not the way that the local government appears to view it. I thought Michigan was trying to encourage "green" investments.
Dr. I. Emsayin
Thu, Sep 29, 2011 : 2:10 p.m.
see trailer for movie "Windfall" and you will see some of the issues with windmills