The Coles County Board has approved the Coles Wind project, a 51-turbine wind farm proposed by Apex Clean Energy, in a 6-5 vote. The decision comes after years of debate, public meetings, and hearings, where residents and representatives of the project presented their cases. The project is expected to produce enough energy to power 103,000 homes annually, generating tax revenue for local government and schools, and creating temporary and permanent jobs.
During the public comment period, supporters of the project cited its economic benefits, including the potential to lower property taxes, while opponents raised concerns about health risks, property values, and the company’s commitment to maintaining roads during and after construction. Rick Shook, a board member who voted against the project, expressed concerns about Apex’s ability to fulfill its promises, including maintaining roads and addressing potential problems.
On the other hand, Michael Watts, a board member who voted in favor of the project, stated that his primary focus was ensuring that the project met state law and county ordinances. He believes that the project will help the county remain financially stable and potentially lower property taxes. According to Apex’s website, the project is expected to generate significant tax revenue for local government and schools, which could help to reduce the burden on property owners.
The Coles Wind project is part of a broader trend of wind energy development in Illinois, which aims to increase renewable energy and reduce carbon emissions. The state’s Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, passed in 2021, sets ambitious targets for renewable energy production, and the Coles Wind project is one of several wind farms being developed in the state. Apex has said that it plans to start construction on the project in 2026.
While the project has been approved, some residents remain skeptical about its benefits. James Dinaso, who spoke against the project, argued that the promised tax benefits would not materialize, and that the project’s impact on the community would be negative. Despite these concerns, the Coles County Board has given the green light to the project, which is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the area. The project’s approval is a significant step forward for wind energy development in Illinois, and it will be closely watched by residents and stakeholders in the coming years.