Representatives of the Granite Links Golf club appeared before the Board of Selectmen last week to present their concerns regarding the construction of a wind turbine near the golf course.

They contend that the turbine is a “monstrosity” that unfairly “punishes them and no one else” because they do not receive the same setbacks as other abutters.

They cite the location, the effects (e.g. flickering), and the noise as factors that will detrimentally affect their business. They showed a video made by a Wisconsin resident whose house is affected by a turbine. You can view a version of that video here.

Font du Lac wind farm

Chairman Shields did not agree, “I just don’t think it will have the effects you say it will.” Shields expressed irritation regarding a letter drop they did on Lyman Road taking exception to the claim that Quarry Hills was “ignored and ridiculed.” Most importantly, Shields asked, “What do we tell our tax payers? This is a revenue enhancer for us.” He went on to note that the recent article to bond the turbine passed town meeting by a unanimous vote. Shields also reminded the group that there was agreement to turn off the turbine when the flicker effect would be

The response from Quarry Hills was, “We know we are not in agreement.”

At the conclusion of their presentation Richard Kleiman, Chairman of the Wind Committee. Kleiman pointed out that the Wisconsin example was a completely different project constructed under very different circumstances than the one proposed here (see photo of Wisconsin wind farm). He also said the the inspections and approvals were done by the state.

Other business included but was not limited to:

• The director of the Fontbonne Academy spoke to the board to assure them that Fontbonne was in Milton and staying in Milton. He was prompted to come due to talk about town that, like Temple Shalom, they were in straits and may be moving. Part of this was fueled by the fact that Fontbonne is divesting itself of the Wigglesworth estate as they do not need two campuses. The likely tenant is another school which would be consistent with the educational mission of the Sisters of St. Joseph.
• Joseph Lynch of the DPW reviewed actions taken by the DPW to cope with the issues that arose as a result of the phenomenal amount of rainfall recently. He noted that there will be additional trash pickups (see this post). He also cautioned residents about crisis chasers who offer to help mop up for an exorbitant rate. He also discussed with the board enlisting support of high , and scout troops to assist elderly who needed assistance moving damaged items out for curbside pickup.
• The MWRA presented the plan to initiate construction to replace old water lines along Adams Street from Centre Avenue to Milton Village. See related post here.