Livingston approves Panther Grove II

The Livingston County Board approved the new Panther Grove II wind farm in the southwestern portion of the county by a vote of 12-5 Thursday.

“That was a really hot topic,” said County Board Chair Jim Carley after the meeting. “We had 20 ZBA meetings and some Ag and Zoning meetings on it.”

Carley said Thursday’s meeting was “packed” with those for and against the project attending. With one of the county board members absent, there were only 17 votes.

“They are permitted now,” notes Carley, referring to the wind farm.

Panther Grove II has also reached a road agreement with the county. The county wants certain guarantees, according to Carley, who said heavy equipment can damage roads in the wind farm area.

“They gave us everything we wanted and more so the county has agreed with them, now they have to sign road agreements with the townships over there.”

Also this week, the McLean County Board approved a special use permit to allow 35 wind turbines in northeast McLean County near Lexington.