Wilson outraged with approval for wind turbines at Collingwood airport

Jim Wilson news release

Simcoe-Grey MPP is reeling after getting news that the Ministry of the Environment has accepted wpd Canada’s application as “complete” to build eight 500 foot industrial wind turbines on the flight path of the Collingwood Regional Airport and other airports in Clearview Township. The approval moves the application onto the technical review stage, which could result in final approval in a mere few months time.

Today, Wilson sent an open letter to Premier Kathleen Wynne to question her government’s decision to push forward with the application. “I am writing to you today in response to your government’s decision to declare wpd Canada’s application to build eight 500 foot industrial wind turbines on the flight path of the Collingwood Regional Airport complete and accepted for technical review,” wrote Wilson.

“As you are aware, my constituents and I strongly oppose this project.” Wilson continued, “Premier, this decision was made by your government without consultation and in spite of safety concerns. It goes against resolutions opposing this development from the Township of Clearview, Town of Collingwood and Town of Wasaga Beach. Once again, please find enclosed a letter from the Collingwood Airport Services Board, as well as the aforementioned resolutions against this project.”

Wilson has been extremely vocal about his opposition to this specific project and others like it. His position on renewable energy dates back to his days as Energy Minister that projects should only be built in communities where they are welcomed and wanted and at prices ratepayers can afford.

Wilson has been working to restore local controls over these projects. He introduced legislation–Bill 2, Restoring Planning Powers to Municipalities Act, 2013–earlier this year. He also strongly opposes the Liberal’s Feed-in-Tariff program that is driving up the cost of hydro bills.

“Premier, the grid doesn’t need this energy. Ontario can’t afford to pay for this energy. Your failed energy scheme has already cost Ontario 300,000 manufacturing jobs and counting. Enough is enough,” continued Wilson. “What will it take for you to agree that massive wind turbines directly beside an airport are not a good idea?” Wpd Canada’s application is now in the technical review stage of approvals. Public comment is being accepted by the Ministry of the Environment until February 1st, 2014. Wilson urges his constituents to participate in this process. You can find more information on the Environmental Registry website, www.ebr.gov.on.ca.