Burns demands details on proposed windmill farm from water authority, company officials

Urges residents to attend Dec. 12 town hall meeting

Rep. Frank Burns    November 30, 2018 | 3:59 PM

EBENSBURG, Nov. 30 – In response to an outpouring of questions and concerns from residents about a proposed windmill farm, state Rep. Frank Burns is hosting a town hall meeting to gather facts on the project.

The town hall will be held at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 12 at Westmont Hilltop High School, 200 Fair Oaks Drive, Johnstown, 15905.

Burns, D-Cambria, said he wants to provide a forum for residents to ask questions and learn more about the proposed installation of wind turbines along the ridge in Upper Yoder Township.

Burns has invited officials from the Greater Johnstown Water Authority, which has leased a tract of land in Upper Yoder for the windmill farm, and Maryland-based Competitive Power Ventures, the wind energy developer. 

“People deserve to have their voices heard and to be part of the planning process before an unknown number of giant windmills are constructed along the Laurel Ridge,” Burns said. “Our region cherishes outdoor recreation such as hunting, hiking, biking and skiing. The addition of these turbines could have a devastating impact on tourism, an industry that’s vital to our local economy.”

In a little-noticed court order this month, a Cambria County judge approved changes to the water authority’s deed of trust to allow it to enter into a lease agreement with CPV to develop the windmill farm.

No other information has been made available regarding the size, scope, impact or timeline for the project, Burns said.

“There was no publicity for this court decision and residents feel like the water authority is pushing this project through in secret,” Burns said. “Before we corrupt one of our greatest natural resources, people deserve to know what the true cost is to the community.”