Public Hearings 9.
Regular Board of Supervisors Meeting
Community Development
- Meeting Date:
- 06/11/2013
- Title:
- Appeal of Special Use Authorization for Torch Renewable Energy, LLC.
- Submitted By:
- Beverly Wilson, Community Development
- Department:
- Community Development
- Division:
- Planning & Zoning
Presentation:
PowerPoint
Recommendation:
Approve
Document Signatures:
BOS Signature NOT Required
# of ORIGINALS
Submitted for Signature:
Submitted for Signature:
0
NAME
of PRESENTER:
of PRESENTER:
Beverly Wilson
TITLE
of PRESENTER:
of PRESENTER:
Deputy Director Planning Division
Mandated Function?:
Not Mandated
Source of Mandate
or Basis for Support?:
or Basis for Support?:
Docket Number (If applicable):
SUA-13-04 (Audubon Arizona-Appellant)
Information
Agenda Item Text:
Approve Docket SUA-13-04A, Audubon Arizona, an appeal of Planning and Zoning Commission's April 10, 2013, approval of Docket SU-13-04, Red Horse Wind 2, Torch Renewable Energy Advisors, LLC special use permit.
Background:
MEMORANDUM
SUBJECT: Docket SUA-13-04–Audubon Arizona (Appellant)
RE: SU-13-04 (Red Horse Wind 2; Torch Renewable Energy Advisors, LLC)
DATE: May 28, 2013, for the June 11, 2013 Meeting
I. APPEAL OF SPECIAL USE AUTHORIZATION
This is an appeal of a Special Use authorization granted by the Planning and Zoning Commission on April 10, 2013 for a proposed Wind Energy Power Plant west of Willcox. The Applicant is Torch Renewable Energy Advisors, LLC. The utility-scale project would generate up to 51-megawatts (MW) of power, and include up to 28, approximately 475-foot tall turbines/generators, with an accessory operation and maintenance facility. The subject properties include nine Sections of Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) Trust Land (T13S, Range 22E, Sec.15,16,17,20,21,22,27,28 and 29) and possibly a small portion of private land (parcel no. 209-69-001), all of which are zoned RU-4.
II. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION VOTE ON APRIL 10, 2013
The Commission considered the staff report, staff presentation and the Applicant's testimony at the hearing, as well as testimony from several members of the public. The Commission voted 8-0 to Conditionally Approve the Special Use request, with one abstention.
The public’s testimony focused on the various and ongoing biological and cultural studies undertaken as part of the Applicant’s right-of-way application to the Arizona State Lands Department. Concern was conveyed about what is perceived as a project moving forward through the various permitting processes too quickly. It was suggested that at this juncture data is lacking to fully realize the scope of potential impacts upon natural resources, namely local bird and bat populations, and what mitigation might be need to minimize threats.
III. NATURE OF APPEAL
The Appellant, Audubon Arizona, is appealing the Commission's decision of Conditional Approval for reasons stated in a letter (attached) to the Board of Supervisors. A portion of the Appeal reads as follows: “We respectfully request that the County Board of Supervisors modify the Planning and Zoning Commission’s approval of a special use permit for this project to include stipulation that a wildlife conservation plan be written in cooperation with the Arizona Game and Fish Department and necessary avian, bat and wildlife studies be completed and the results given due consideration prior to construction and final decisions for placement of the wind towers…”
Tucson Electric Power (TEP), the likely power purchasers of the Red Horse Wind 2 project, is, according to the Appellant, willing to “...facilitate the discussions concerning the environmental concerns associated with this project if needed.”
The Appellant indicates that data collected thus far regarding potential risks to various avifauna such as golden eagles suggests that conclusive data are lacking to determine the full scope of impacts, and therefore, any approval at this time is premature. The project’s location near to the Willcox Playa, an important migratory flyway for sandhill cranes in particular, is cited by the Appellant as a major point of concern. In addition, it is suggested that ecotourism revenues in the County might suffer without knowing what potential impacts exist and mitigation measures needed on biological resources.
IV. DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT PARCELS AND SURROUNDING LAND USES
Size of Project Site: Approximately nine Sections (nine square miles)
Zoning: RU-4 (Rural; 1 minimum lot size 4 acres)
Growth Area: Category D (Rural Growth Area)
Area Plan: None
Comprehensive Plan Designation: Rural
Existing Uses: State grazing leases (War Bonnet Ranch); open space
Surrounding Zoning
Relation to Subject Parcel Zoning District Use of Property
North RU-4 Private ranch land, ASLD grazing leases; open space
South RU-4 ASLD grazing leases; open space
East RU-4 ASLD grazing leases; open space
West RU-4 ASLD grazing leases; open space
V. PARCEL HISTORY
A commercial permit was issued to Torch Renewable Energy, LLC in October 2012, for a 197-ft. temporary meteorological (met) tower on this site.
VI. BACKGROUND
Wind energy in the United States now accounts for more than 9,000-MW, enough electricity to power approximately 2.3 million homes. A rough rule of thumb is that one MW produces enough power for 250 to 300 homes (fide, American Wind Energy Association). While wind currently provides less than one-percent of the nation’s total energy needs, many states are looking to increase their supplies of renewable energy. Over the past decade, there has been significant interest in jumpstarting renewable energy development in Arizona. Arizona’s Climate Change Action Plan (2006) outlines specific recommendations for State regulators, including setting an aggressive goal of reducing state greenhouse gas emissions to year 2000 levels by 2020, and to 50-per cent below 2000 levels by 2050. Furthermore, in 2012, following a three-year environmental analysis, the Department of Interior designated 192,000-acres of public land in Arizona as potentially suitable for utility-scale renewable energy development. Lands identified were chosen due to their "low resource sensitivity and few environmental conflicts," as well as their proximity to transmission capability, load centers and areas with high demand. Although solar energy has received the most attention, there has been some interest in developing Arizona’s wind resources as well.
Torch Renewable Energy, LLC, a Houston-based energy developer with nearly 3,500-MW of wind projects in various stages of development across the western United States, has submitted this request. If approved, Red Horse Wind 2 would be the County’s first wind energy project of this magnitude. Most of the proposed project site (nine Sections in total) is under the the jurisdiction of the Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) with grazing leases administered by that agency. There would also possibly be one turbine sited on a small portion of private land. The project site is located approximately 14-miles west of Willcox and approximately 15-miles north of Interstate 10, with access taken in part via West Airport Road in Willcox as previously noted.
Federal and State lands are zoned by Cochise County in the event lands transfer to private ownership. In addition to the Special Use Application submitted to the Community Development Department, the Applicant has filed an Application for Right-of-Way (ROW) with the ASLD. Approval of the ROW application would authorize the construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of that portion of the project sited on State-administered land. Similar to the County’s review process, the ASLD requires project review by outside agencies for compliance with various requirements and to determine mitigation if needed.
The ASLD recognizes the value of local oversight and voluntary compliance with local regulations and permitting requirements. As stewards of State Trust Lands and with a legal and fiduciary obligation to maximize returns to beneficiaries of the trust, the ASLD has a critical interest in the development of renewable energy in Arizona.
Fig. 1. View southeast towards general location of turbine array
The State holds a competitive advantage over the federal government and private landowners because of the ASLD’s ability to sell or lease multiple parcels at once; this is advantageous to energy developers who would otherwise need to negotiate individually with potentially numerous private landowners. The ASLD also has some competitive advantages over the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), for example, in that wind energy projects on federal lands are subject to more rigorous federal requirements, which typically do not apply to projects proposed on State land.
VII. NATURE OF THE REQUEST
The area of the project site is a very rural and isolated portion of the County with vast areas of open space. The major topographical features near the project site are the Winchester Mountains just to the north and east with “Allen Flat” lying to the south and west. Area land use activities include livestock grazing. Residential development within the project boundaries and in the immediate area virtually non-existent. The occurrence of development does increase gradually the farther one travels eastward on Airport Road towards Willcox. Access to the site is proposed from the east via West Airport Road and East Three Links Road, existing County-maintained roadways improved for a portion of its length, then continuing west and north via North Muleshoe and North Warbonnet Roads.
As noted, up to 28-turbines/generators would produce up to 51-MW that would be distributed in part by a nearby existing 34.5 (kV) Kilovolt overhead transmission line. The wind turbines themselves would be approximately 487-foot in height, with 192-foot diameter blades/rotors.
Fig. 2. Vestas V100 turbine and rotor
The project’s associated infrastructure would include a 34.5-kV substation, service roads, double overhead transmission and underground transmission lines, as well as a 2,400-square foot operations and maintenance facility and two-34.5-kV overhead transmission lines. These lines would tie in to the regional grid via the new substation (which in turn would connect to the existing Winchester substation to the southwest), and would continue westward roughly paralleling the existing Tucson Electric Power’s (TEP) overhead transmission lines along the I-10 corridor. The ancillary infrastructure needed for interconnection and maintenance would be sited on State-administered land. The Applicant has indicated that wind systems manufactured by Vestas or Nordex would be employed, with each turbine to be spaced approximately 1,300-ft. apart. The Interconnection Request was posted with TEP last October, and the associated System Impact Study work is scheduled for completion by the end of this month. The expectation is to have an Interconnection Agreement executed no later than August 2013. In addition, the project was approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
If approved, construction is slated to begin in the last quarter of this year with build-out by the end of 2014. The project would create 50-new full-time jobs during construction and about four permanent full-time jobs at build-out.
Fig. 3. 345 kV line
VIII. ANALYSIS OF IMPACTS – COMPLIANCE WITH SPECIAL USE FACTORS
Section 1716.02 of the Zoning Regulations provides a list of 10-factors with which to evaluate Special Use applications. Staff uses these factors to help determine whether to recommend approval for a Special Use authorization, as well as to determine what Conditions and/or Modifications and Waivers may be needed. Eight of the 10-criteria apply to this request. The project as submitted complies with six of the eight applicable Special Use factors. If the Conditions of Approval recommended by staff and the requested Modifications are approved, the project would comply with all eight of the applicable factors.
A. Compliance with Duly Adopted Plans: Complies
The property is not within the boundary of any area plan. However, the proposed project complies with the applicable County Comprehensive Plan (Plan) policies relative to the appropriateness of the use in Category D–Rural areas, as large-scale renewable energy projects are generally considered appropriate uses in rural areas.
Of note is that Section F (Intergovernmental Coordination) of the Plan speaks to the potential impacts that other governmental agencies’ actions might have upon the people, land and resources of the County, and how those actions must be carried out in a manner consistent with the Goals and Policies of the Plan.
B. Compliance with the Zoning District Purpose Statement: Complies
Section 601.02 of the Zoning Regulations encourages “those types of non-residential and non-agricultural activities which serve local needs or provide a service and are compatible with rural living.” Furthermore, Section 601.07 offers the following purpose statement:
“To allow consideration of some more intense non-residential uses as special uses that are inappropriate in more densely populated urban/ suburban areas that may under some circumstances be appropriate in rural areas if designed to be sensitive to the general character of rural districts and natural environment and harmonious and in scale with existing development near the proposed site…”
As indicated in Section A (Compliance with Duly Adopted Plans), large-scale renewable energy projects are typically appropriate uses in expansive rural areas. As a Special Use, an oversight mechanism exists to ensure that this non-residential (commercial) use is sensitive to the rural and natural environments.
C. Development Along Major Streets: Not Applicable
The project site is not located along any roadway designated an arterial.
D. Traffic Circulation Factors: Complies with Condition 5
Compliance with this factor depends upon the ability of a proposed land use to utilize the existing transportation network in the manner in which it was designed. As noted, the project site takes access via North Taylor Road, to West Airport Road, both County-maintained roadways improved for much of the length, and then to unimproved North Muleshoe and North War Bonnet Roads. These roadways are inadequately designed to handle the various oversized construction-related vehicles that must access the site. Airport Rd., the improved segment in particular, may require major repair and improvements post-construction due to the number of trips and the sheer weight of the large transport vehicles expected. Condition 5 of Approval speaks to the need for the Applicant to repair all County-maintained roads traversed during construction phases to pre-construction conditions.
The Applicant is advised that at the Commercial Permit phase a ROW/Encroachment Permit would be needed for the access apron onto any County-maintained roadways. Per the County’s Transportation Planner, a formal Traffic Study would not be required.
E. Adequate Services and Infrastructure: Complies
This factor concerns the ability of the Applicant to provide for necessary street, water, sewer, and utility services on the property, as applicable. Adequate access to service the operation would be provided. The Willcox Fire Department would provide emergency services if needed.
F. Significant Site Development Standards: Complies with Condition 7 and Requested Modifications
As submitted, the project site complies with most applicable site development standards for the Rural Zoning Districts. With nine Sections of land, the project could easily meet the minimum site standards for parking, loading and maximum site coverage, for example. By virtue of the type of use, a Modification of the 45-foot maximum permitted wind turbine height per Section 604.02 would be required to allow for the 487-foot turbine heights. The Applicant has proposed 16-foot wide access driveways, smaller than the minimum 20-foot required by the Zoning Regulations. A Modification is requested to allow for the proposed access width.
To help ensure safety, as a Condition of Approval, staff recommends minimum setbacks at least equal to a horizontal distance, from the turbines’ base to the property boundary of the project property, equal to the total height of the turbine structure as measured from its base to the tip of its highest blade, plus 10-foot, which is 497-feet. Doing so would protect neighboring properties in the event of fall over and would allow for additional land area to perform repairs or removal. Landscaping and screening are not required for this project because the site lies within a Category D Rural Growth Area.
G. Public Input: Complies
The Applicant completed the requisite Citizen Review process by mailing notice to the two private property owners within one-mile of the parcels’ boundaries, but did not receive any response. As part of the Special Use application process. The Community Development Department also mailed notice to property owners within one-mile of the site, the ASLD and two private property owners.
To date, the Department has received one Department form letter from an area resident who conveyed concerns about potential impacts on view sheds and existing agriculture-related uses. Letters of support were received from the Southeast Arizona Economic Development Group, the City of Willcox, the Willcox Chamber of Commerce, the Willcox Regional Economic Development Alliance and the Benson City Council.
H. Hazardous Materials: Not Applicable
Per the Applicant, no hazardous materials are to be stored or utilized on site.
I. Off-site Impacts: Complies with Condition 1, 3, 5 and 7
Biological/Natural and Cultural Resources
Construction and operational activities associated with wind energy development can generate various biological impacts, such as avian and bat mortality and displacement. Federal and state agencies oversee the development of wind energy projects on public land, and federal laws such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act (ESA) are designed to protect wildlife from human intrusions on public and private land, and to ensure wind energy projects are sited in areas that pose minimal threat to natural and cultural resources. There are also a set of guidelines and policies developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and a number of state agencies, including the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZG&FD) to encourage early consideration of natural resources for wind energy development. These guidelines emphasize the need for a proactive approach to help wind energy developers identify and avoid sensitive areas from the very beginning of project consideration in order to reduce ecological impacts and project delays.
The AZG&FD must work with wind developers to plan environmental impacts monitoring prior to and post construction as part of that agency’s environmental monitoring requirements–this process was initiated by the Applicant, and is ongoing. In addition, the FWS has submitted comments indicating that the Applicant conferred with that agency on January 24 to discuss pre-construction avian and bat risk studies.
A biological consultant is currently gathering data on behalf of the Applicant to determine biodiversity in and adjacent to the project site, the abundance of local prey bases, and what mitigation measures might be needed to protect particularly sensitive species.
These studies are being conducted in accordance with the federal and state land based wind energy guidelines.
Various fauna and avifauna, including lesser long-nosed bat (formally recognized as endangered by the FWS), pronghorn, and golden eagle, have been documented in the area of the project site as seasonal visitants and breeding species. Although golden eagles do not enjoy protection under the ESA, they are provided special protections under the Bald and Golden Eagles Protection Act. Several other raptor species, including peregrine falcons, have been observed in the area as well; such species also are afforded protection by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
In addition to the biological inventories and studies, a cultural resource inventory will be completed over the next several months. These studies are slated for completion in late fall 2013, with the final configuration of the turbine array based in part on the findings of the biological and cultural inventories. At the public hearing in April, the Applicant indicated that post-construction avian and bat mortality monitoring would occur.
As noted above, the ASLD requires a right-of-way for access to and use of State lands for wind energy development, but does not require a commercial lease of the land as it can be co-used for wind energy and other purposes, such as grazing. Per an interagency Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the ASLD is required to consult with the AZG&FD regarding the wind developer’s environmental monitoring plans as part of the right-of-way permitting process. In addition, as part of the review process at the State level, the Applicant shall be required to provide documentation that the project is in compliance with the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act mentioned above. It is expected that construction activities associated with the project would result in direct temporary and permanent vegetation loss, especially near to the turbine bases. These losses would occur as the result of grading, clearing (approximately 330-acres), and other surface disturbances.
The wind energy industry recognizes that the biggest drawback of wind energy is its potential impact on birds and bats and other natural and cultural resources. This fact has driven creative and proactive approaches industry-wide over the last 10-years to ensure that this renewable energy source can coexist with the natural environment.
Transient Dust
Project construction would generate temporary visual and transient dust impacts from grading activities and travel on improved and unimproved roads. Soil stabilizers would be applied to control transient dust. Water trucks would complement this dust control measure as needed.
Noise
The existing background noise in the project area is characteristically quiet of rural environments. Temporary construction noise would be generated, however, and the long-term operational noise impacts would be negligible, especially given that the site and environs are very sparsely populated. Potential impacts from maintenance activities on existing ambient noise levels would be detectable for a short duration, but given the rural, isolated location, any potential increase in noise would likely be undetectable or of little concern to the general public.
Lighting
Per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, each turbine must have warning lights installed to alert nearby aircraft pilots of the turbine array. These warning lights would compromise the lucid dark night skies found in the project area, but the County’s Light Pollution Code exempts such uses for the sake of safety.
Decommissioning
The ASLD requires a surety bond to be posted per that agency’s processing guidelines for wind energy testing and energy production decommissioning on State Trust lands. As a Condition of Approval, the County would also require a decommissioning agreement in the event turbines or other project-related structures are sited on private land.
J. Water Conservation: Complies
Water use associated with the project is expected to be minimal, particularly post-construction. A well would be drilled to serve the O&M facility, with 200-gallons per day estimated. Any relevant construction would be required to conform to the water conservation regulations provided in the Zoning Regulations, as well as the applicable Comprehensive Plan policies, per Section 102E.
IX. PUBLIC COMMENT
The Department mailed notices to three neighboring property owners within one-mile of the subject properties. Staff posted the property on March 14 and published a legal notice in the Bisbee Observer on March 10. To date, the Department has received letters of support from the Southeast Arizona Economic Development Group, the City of Willcox, the Willcox Chamber of Commerce, the Willcox Regional Economic Development Alliance and the Benson City Council. Additionally, one Department form letter was received from an area resident within one-mile of the project site who conveyed concerns about potential impacts on view sheds and existing agriculture-related uses.
As part of the formal Appeal process, the Department mailed letters on May 13 to the Appellant, Applicant and property owners within one-mile of the subject properties, and published and posted legal notice at the site on May 16. To date, the Department has not received any comments regarding the submitted Appeal.
X. MODIFICATIONS
The following Modifications are requested:
1. A Modification of the maximum permitted height of 45-foot in the Rural Zoning Districts, per Section 604.02to allow for the approximate 487-foot turbine heights; and
2. A Modification from the minimum 20-foot wide road standard for commercial uses to allow for 16-foot wide setup and maintenance access, per the submitted application.
XI. SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION
This Appeal regards the Special Use authorization by the Planning and Zoning Commission for a utility-scale wind energy project on nine Sections of State Trust Land (and possibly a small portion of private land) located west of the City of Willcox. The project would include up to 28, approximately 487-ft. turbines and generators, as well as an operations and maintenance facility. The Appellant contends that project approval is premature due to a suggested lack of data regarding potential threats to biological resources. However, the project would continue to have considerable oversight by the Arizona State Lands Department to ensure that the project does not threaten said resources. That agency continues to work closely with the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Applicant’s biological consultant to ensure biological resources aren’t unduly threatened.
The project is one deemed suitable in the rural location in which proposed and a Condition of Approval speaks to ensuring County roads used to transport infrastructure and equipment will be improved to pre-construction condition. In light of these and the other Factors Against Approval of the Appeal listed below, Staff recommends denial of the Appeal.
Factors in Favor of Upholding the Commission’s Decision (Denying the Appeal)
1. The project is consistent with the applicable Policies of the Comprehensive Plan and the Purpose of the Rural Zoning Districts;
2. The project would not be materially detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the public or to property in the vicinity;
3. The Arizona State Lands Department along with the Arizona Game and Fish Department continues to review the submitted right-of-way application for the project, including determining the potential for negative impacts upon biological and cultural resources and mitigation strategies if necessary. Post-construction bird and bat mortality analyses would help ensure impacts are minimal;
4. The project would support Arizona’s renewable energy standard of generating 15-per cent of electricity from renewable sources by 2025 by serving as a source of clean energy, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the need to generate electricity from fossil fuels;
5. The project would provide increased revenue for the ASLD for the use of State-administered land;
6. Once completed the project would generate negligible levels of traffic;
7. The project would create an estimated 50-temporary jobs and at least four permanent jobs;
8. At build-out the project would use minimal water for power generation;
9. The project would allow State grazing leases to continue;
10. The project would be sited close to existing power distribution infrastructure; and
11. On April 10, 2013, the Planning and Zoning Commission voted 8-0 (with one abstention) to Conditionally Approve the project.
Factors in Favor of Granting the Appeal
1. There appear to be no factors in favor of overturning the Commission’s April 10, 2013, decision.
XII. RECOMMENDATION
Based on the Factors in Favor of Denial, Staff recommends that the Board deny the appeal, thereby upholding the Planning and Zoning Commission’s decision to Conditionally Approve the project with the following Conditions:
1. Prior to permit issuance, the Applicant shall submit a plan for transient dust mitigation for all grading and construction phases for the project;
2. If substantial construction progress has not occurred within three (3) years from the date of approval, the Special Use Authorization shall be revoked after 30-days notice to the Applicant;
3. The Applicant acknowledges that transporting equipment and materials to the property during construction is likely to damage Taylor or Airport Roads, and that the Applicant is responsible to pay the County the cost to repair such roads to their current condition by an outside contractor. Prior to permit issuance and transporting equipment and materials to the subject property for construction, i) the County Engineer will prepare a written baseline assessment of the current condition of such roads, to be acknowledged and agreed upon by the Applicant; and ii) the Applicant and the County will enter into a written agreement pursuant to which the Applicant will provide the County funds in the amount of $3,000,000, less the depreciation of such roads in the amount to be determined by the County Engineer, to be drawn upon by the County to pay for the cost of repair, with the balance after repair, if any, to be returned to the Applicant upon certification by the County Engineer that such roads have been repaired to their current condition.
No certificate of occupancy will be issued for use until such roads have been repaired or the County Engineer has determined that the Applicant has supplied sufficient funds to repair such roads to their current condition.
If, during the construction phase the County Engineer determines that such roads have become unsafe for travel, the County may draw down funds to pay for an interim repair as needed. This condition was based on the assumption that Taylor and Airport Roads will be the route taken for this Special Use Authorization. If an alternate route over other County-maintained roads is used, a new estimate and final agreement will be executed between the parties. In the event this project is decommissioned in whole or in part, an additional agreement will be executed between the parties to provide for necessary repair of any County-maintained roads utilized and the cost to remove all decommissioned structures on all private lands;
4. Within 30-days of approval of the Special Use Authorization, the Applicant shall provide the County a signed Acceptance of Conditions form and a Waiver of Claims form arising from ARS Section 12-1134. Prior to operation of the Special Use Authorization, the Applicant shall apply for a Building/Use Permit for the project within 12-months of approval;
5. The minimum setbacks from all parcel boundaries shall be 497-ft., which is at least equal to the horizontal distance from the turbines’ base to the parcel boundaries equal to the proposed total height of the turbine structure as measured from its base to the tip of its highest blade, plus 10-ft.;
6. The Building/Use Permit shall include a site plan in conformance with all applicable site development standards (except as Modified) and with Section 1705 of the Zoning Regulations, the completed Special Use permit questionnaire and application, and appropriate fees. A Building/Use Permit must be issued within 18-months of the Special Use Authorization approval, otherwise the Special Use Authorization may be deemed void upon 30-day notification to the Applicant;
7. It is the Applicant’s responsibility to obtain any additional permits, or meet any additional conditions, that may be applicable to the proposed use pursuant to other federal, state, or local laws or regulations; and
8. Any changes to the approved Special Use shall be subject to review by the Planning Department and may require additional Modification and approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
XIII. ATTACHMENTS
A. Special Use Appeal Application and Letter from Appellant
B. Special Use Application and Exhibits
C. Conceptual Design Plans
D. Agency Comments
E. Citizen Review Letter and Comments
F. State ROW Application
SUBJECT: Docket SUA-13-04–Audubon Arizona (Appellant)
RE: SU-13-04 (Red Horse Wind 2; Torch Renewable Energy Advisors, LLC)
DATE: May 28, 2013, for the June 11, 2013 Meeting
I. APPEAL OF SPECIAL USE AUTHORIZATION
This is an appeal of a Special Use authorization granted by the Planning and Zoning Commission on April 10, 2013 for a proposed Wind Energy Power Plant west of Willcox. The Applicant is Torch Renewable Energy Advisors, LLC. The utility-scale project would generate up to 51-megawatts (MW) of power, and include up to 28, approximately 475-foot tall turbines/generators, with an accessory operation and maintenance facility. The subject properties include nine Sections of Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) Trust Land (T13S, Range 22E, Sec.15,16,17,20,21,22,27,28 and 29) and possibly a small portion of private land (parcel no. 209-69-001), all of which are zoned RU-4.
II. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION VOTE ON APRIL 10, 2013
The Commission considered the staff report, staff presentation and the Applicant's testimony at the hearing, as well as testimony from several members of the public. The Commission voted 8-0 to Conditionally Approve the Special Use request, with one abstention.
The public’s testimony focused on the various and ongoing biological and cultural studies undertaken as part of the Applicant’s right-of-way application to the Arizona State Lands Department. Concern was conveyed about what is perceived as a project moving forward through the various permitting processes too quickly. It was suggested that at this juncture data is lacking to fully realize the scope of potential impacts upon natural resources, namely local bird and bat populations, and what mitigation might be need to minimize threats.
III. NATURE OF APPEAL
The Appellant, Audubon Arizona, is appealing the Commission's decision of Conditional Approval for reasons stated in a letter (attached) to the Board of Supervisors. A portion of the Appeal reads as follows: “We respectfully request that the County Board of Supervisors modify the Planning and Zoning Commission’s approval of a special use permit for this project to include stipulation that a wildlife conservation plan be written in cooperation with the Arizona Game and Fish Department and necessary avian, bat and wildlife studies be completed and the results given due consideration prior to construction and final decisions for placement of the wind towers…”
Tucson Electric Power (TEP), the likely power purchasers of the Red Horse Wind 2 project, is, according to the Appellant, willing to “...facilitate the discussions concerning the environmental concerns associated with this project if needed.”
The Appellant indicates that data collected thus far regarding potential risks to various avifauna such as golden eagles suggests that conclusive data are lacking to determine the full scope of impacts, and therefore, any approval at this time is premature. The project’s location near to the Willcox Playa, an important migratory flyway for sandhill cranes in particular, is cited by the Appellant as a major point of concern. In addition, it is suggested that ecotourism revenues in the County might suffer without knowing what potential impacts exist and mitigation measures needed on biological resources.
IV. DESCRIPTION OF SUBJECT PARCELS AND SURROUNDING LAND USES
Size of Project Site: Approximately nine Sections (nine square miles)
Zoning: RU-4 (Rural; 1 minimum lot size 4 acres)
Growth Area: Category D (Rural Growth Area)
Area Plan: None
Comprehensive Plan Designation: Rural
Existing Uses: State grazing leases (War Bonnet Ranch); open space
Surrounding Zoning
Relation to Subject Parcel Zoning District Use of Property
North RU-4 Private ranch land, ASLD grazing leases; open space
South RU-4 ASLD grazing leases; open space
East RU-4 ASLD grazing leases; open space
West RU-4 ASLD grazing leases; open space
V. PARCEL HISTORY
A commercial permit was issued to Torch Renewable Energy, LLC in October 2012, for a 197-ft. temporary meteorological (met) tower on this site.
VI. BACKGROUND
Wind energy in the United States now accounts for more than 9,000-MW, enough electricity to power approximately 2.3 million homes. A rough rule of thumb is that one MW produces enough power for 250 to 300 homes (fide, American Wind Energy Association). While wind currently provides less than one-percent of the nation’s total energy needs, many states are looking to increase their supplies of renewable energy. Over the past decade, there has been significant interest in jumpstarting renewable energy development in Arizona. Arizona’s Climate Change Action Plan (2006) outlines specific recommendations for State regulators, including setting an aggressive goal of reducing state greenhouse gas emissions to year 2000 levels by 2020, and to 50-per cent below 2000 levels by 2050. Furthermore, in 2012, following a three-year environmental analysis, the Department of Interior designated 192,000-acres of public land in Arizona as potentially suitable for utility-scale renewable energy development. Lands identified were chosen due to their "low resource sensitivity and few environmental conflicts," as well as their proximity to transmission capability, load centers and areas with high demand. Although solar energy has received the most attention, there has been some interest in developing Arizona’s wind resources as well.
Torch Renewable Energy, LLC, a Houston-based energy developer with nearly 3,500-MW of wind projects in various stages of development across the western United States, has submitted this request. If approved, Red Horse Wind 2 would be the County’s first wind energy project of this magnitude. Most of the proposed project site (nine Sections in total) is under the the jurisdiction of the Arizona State Land Department (ASLD) with grazing leases administered by that agency. There would also possibly be one turbine sited on a small portion of private land. The project site is located approximately 14-miles west of Willcox and approximately 15-miles north of Interstate 10, with access taken in part via West Airport Road in Willcox as previously noted.
Federal and State lands are zoned by Cochise County in the event lands transfer to private ownership. In addition to the Special Use Application submitted to the Community Development Department, the Applicant has filed an Application for Right-of-Way (ROW) with the ASLD. Approval of the ROW application would authorize the construction, operation, maintenance and decommissioning of that portion of the project sited on State-administered land. Similar to the County’s review process, the ASLD requires project review by outside agencies for compliance with various requirements and to determine mitigation if needed.
The ASLD recognizes the value of local oversight and voluntary compliance with local regulations and permitting requirements. As stewards of State Trust Lands and with a legal and fiduciary obligation to maximize returns to beneficiaries of the trust, the ASLD has a critical interest in the development of renewable energy in Arizona.
Fig. 1. View southeast towards general location of turbine array
The State holds a competitive advantage over the federal government and private landowners because of the ASLD’s ability to sell or lease multiple parcels at once; this is advantageous to energy developers who would otherwise need to negotiate individually with potentially numerous private landowners. The ASLD also has some competitive advantages over the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), for example, in that wind energy projects on federal lands are subject to more rigorous federal requirements, which typically do not apply to projects proposed on State land.
VII. NATURE OF THE REQUEST
The area of the project site is a very rural and isolated portion of the County with vast areas of open space. The major topographical features near the project site are the Winchester Mountains just to the north and east with “Allen Flat” lying to the south and west. Area land use activities include livestock grazing. Residential development within the project boundaries and in the immediate area virtually non-existent. The occurrence of development does increase gradually the farther one travels eastward on Airport Road towards Willcox. Access to the site is proposed from the east via West Airport Road and East Three Links Road, existing County-maintained roadways improved for a portion of its length, then continuing west and north via North Muleshoe and North Warbonnet Roads.
As noted, up to 28-turbines/generators would produce up to 51-MW that would be distributed in part by a nearby existing 34.5 (kV) Kilovolt overhead transmission line. The wind turbines themselves would be approximately 487-foot in height, with 192-foot diameter blades/rotors.
Fig. 2. Vestas V100 turbine and rotor
The project’s associated infrastructure would include a 34.5-kV substation, service roads, double overhead transmission and underground transmission lines, as well as a 2,400-square foot operations and maintenance facility and two-34.5-kV overhead transmission lines. These lines would tie in to the regional grid via the new substation (which in turn would connect to the existing Winchester substation to the southwest), and would continue westward roughly paralleling the existing Tucson Electric Power’s (TEP) overhead transmission lines along the I-10 corridor. The ancillary infrastructure needed for interconnection and maintenance would be sited on State-administered land. The Applicant has indicated that wind systems manufactured by Vestas or Nordex would be employed, with each turbine to be spaced approximately 1,300-ft. apart. The Interconnection Request was posted with TEP last October, and the associated System Impact Study work is scheduled for completion by the end of this month. The expectation is to have an Interconnection Agreement executed no later than August 2013. In addition, the project was approved by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
If approved, construction is slated to begin in the last quarter of this year with build-out by the end of 2014. The project would create 50-new full-time jobs during construction and about four permanent full-time jobs at build-out.
Fig. 3. 345 kV line
VIII. ANALYSIS OF IMPACTS – COMPLIANCE WITH SPECIAL USE FACTORS
Section 1716.02 of the Zoning Regulations provides a list of 10-factors with which to evaluate Special Use applications. Staff uses these factors to help determine whether to recommend approval for a Special Use authorization, as well as to determine what Conditions and/or Modifications and Waivers may be needed. Eight of the 10-criteria apply to this request. The project as submitted complies with six of the eight applicable Special Use factors. If the Conditions of Approval recommended by staff and the requested Modifications are approved, the project would comply with all eight of the applicable factors.
A. Compliance with Duly Adopted Plans: Complies
The property is not within the boundary of any area plan. However, the proposed project complies with the applicable County Comprehensive Plan (Plan) policies relative to the appropriateness of the use in Category D–Rural areas, as large-scale renewable energy projects are generally considered appropriate uses in rural areas.
Of note is that Section F (Intergovernmental Coordination) of the Plan speaks to the potential impacts that other governmental agencies’ actions might have upon the people, land and resources of the County, and how those actions must be carried out in a manner consistent with the Goals and Policies of the Plan.
B. Compliance with the Zoning District Purpose Statement: Complies
Section 601.02 of the Zoning Regulations encourages “those types of non-residential and non-agricultural activities which serve local needs or provide a service and are compatible with rural living.” Furthermore, Section 601.07 offers the following purpose statement:
“To allow consideration of some more intense non-residential uses as special uses that are inappropriate in more densely populated urban/ suburban areas that may under some circumstances be appropriate in rural areas if designed to be sensitive to the general character of rural districts and natural environment and harmonious and in scale with existing development near the proposed site…”
As indicated in Section A (Compliance with Duly Adopted Plans), large-scale renewable energy projects are typically appropriate uses in expansive rural areas. As a Special Use, an oversight mechanism exists to ensure that this non-residential (commercial) use is sensitive to the rural and natural environments.
C. Development Along Major Streets: Not Applicable
The project site is not located along any roadway designated an arterial.
D. Traffic Circulation Factors: Complies with Condition 5
Compliance with this factor depends upon the ability of a proposed land use to utilize the existing transportation network in the manner in which it was designed. As noted, the project site takes access via North Taylor Road, to West Airport Road, both County-maintained roadways improved for much of the length, and then to unimproved North Muleshoe and North War Bonnet Roads. These roadways are inadequately designed to handle the various oversized construction-related vehicles that must access the site. Airport Rd., the improved segment in particular, may require major repair and improvements post-construction due to the number of trips and the sheer weight of the large transport vehicles expected. Condition 5 of Approval speaks to the need for the Applicant to repair all County-maintained roads traversed during construction phases to pre-construction conditions.
The Applicant is advised that at the Commercial Permit phase a ROW/Encroachment Permit would be needed for the access apron onto any County-maintained roadways. Per the County’s Transportation Planner, a formal Traffic Study would not be required.
E. Adequate Services and Infrastructure: Complies
This factor concerns the ability of the Applicant to provide for necessary street, water, sewer, and utility services on the property, as applicable. Adequate access to service the operation would be provided. The Willcox Fire Department would provide emergency services if needed.
F. Significant Site Development Standards: Complies with Condition 7 and Requested Modifications
As submitted, the project site complies with most applicable site development standards for the Rural Zoning Districts. With nine Sections of land, the project could easily meet the minimum site standards for parking, loading and maximum site coverage, for example. By virtue of the type of use, a Modification of the 45-foot maximum permitted wind turbine height per Section 604.02 would be required to allow for the 487-foot turbine heights. The Applicant has proposed 16-foot wide access driveways, smaller than the minimum 20-foot required by the Zoning Regulations. A Modification is requested to allow for the proposed access width.
To help ensure safety, as a Condition of Approval, staff recommends minimum setbacks at least equal to a horizontal distance, from the turbines’ base to the property boundary of the project property, equal to the total height of the turbine structure as measured from its base to the tip of its highest blade, plus 10-foot, which is 497-feet. Doing so would protect neighboring properties in the event of fall over and would allow for additional land area to perform repairs or removal. Landscaping and screening are not required for this project because the site lies within a Category D Rural Growth Area.
G. Public Input: Complies
The Applicant completed the requisite Citizen Review process by mailing notice to the two private property owners within one-mile of the parcels’ boundaries, but did not receive any response. As part of the Special Use application process. The Community Development Department also mailed notice to property owners within one-mile of the site, the ASLD and two private property owners.
To date, the Department has received one Department form letter from an area resident who conveyed concerns about potential impacts on view sheds and existing agriculture-related uses. Letters of support were received from the Southeast Arizona Economic Development Group, the City of Willcox, the Willcox Chamber of Commerce, the Willcox Regional Economic Development Alliance and the Benson City Council.
H. Hazardous Materials: Not Applicable
Per the Applicant, no hazardous materials are to be stored or utilized on site.
I. Off-site Impacts: Complies with Condition 1, 3, 5 and 7
Biological/Natural and Cultural Resources
Construction and operational activities associated with wind energy development can generate various biological impacts, such as avian and bat mortality and displacement. Federal and state agencies oversee the development of wind energy projects on public land, and federal laws such as the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and the Endangered Species Act (ESA) are designed to protect wildlife from human intrusions on public and private land, and to ensure wind energy projects are sited in areas that pose minimal threat to natural and cultural resources. There are also a set of guidelines and policies developed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) and a number of state agencies, including the Arizona Game and Fish Department (AZG&FD) to encourage early consideration of natural resources for wind energy development. These guidelines emphasize the need for a proactive approach to help wind energy developers identify and avoid sensitive areas from the very beginning of project consideration in order to reduce ecological impacts and project delays.
The AZG&FD must work with wind developers to plan environmental impacts monitoring prior to and post construction as part of that agency’s environmental monitoring requirements–this process was initiated by the Applicant, and is ongoing. In addition, the FWS has submitted comments indicating that the Applicant conferred with that agency on January 24 to discuss pre-construction avian and bat risk studies.
A biological consultant is currently gathering data on behalf of the Applicant to determine biodiversity in and adjacent to the project site, the abundance of local prey bases, and what mitigation measures might be needed to protect particularly sensitive species.
These studies are being conducted in accordance with the federal and state land based wind energy guidelines.
Various fauna and avifauna, including lesser long-nosed bat (formally recognized as endangered by the FWS), pronghorn, and golden eagle, have been documented in the area of the project site as seasonal visitants and breeding species. Although golden eagles do not enjoy protection under the ESA, they are provided special protections under the Bald and Golden Eagles Protection Act. Several other raptor species, including peregrine falcons, have been observed in the area as well; such species also are afforded protection by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.
In addition to the biological inventories and studies, a cultural resource inventory will be completed over the next several months. These studies are slated for completion in late fall 2013, with the final configuration of the turbine array based in part on the findings of the biological and cultural inventories. At the public hearing in April, the Applicant indicated that post-construction avian and bat mortality monitoring would occur.
As noted above, the ASLD requires a right-of-way for access to and use of State lands for wind energy development, but does not require a commercial lease of the land as it can be co-used for wind energy and other purposes, such as grazing. Per an interagency Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), the ASLD is required to consult with the AZG&FD regarding the wind developer’s environmental monitoring plans as part of the right-of-way permitting process. In addition, as part of the review process at the State level, the Applicant shall be required to provide documentation that the project is in compliance with the Federal Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act mentioned above. It is expected that construction activities associated with the project would result in direct temporary and permanent vegetation loss, especially near to the turbine bases. These losses would occur as the result of grading, clearing (approximately 330-acres), and other surface disturbances.
The wind energy industry recognizes that the biggest drawback of wind energy is its potential impact on birds and bats and other natural and cultural resources. This fact has driven creative and proactive approaches industry-wide over the last 10-years to ensure that this renewable energy source can coexist with the natural environment.
Transient Dust
Project construction would generate temporary visual and transient dust impacts from grading activities and travel on improved and unimproved roads. Soil stabilizers would be applied to control transient dust. Water trucks would complement this dust control measure as needed.
Noise
The existing background noise in the project area is characteristically quiet of rural environments. Temporary construction noise would be generated, however, and the long-term operational noise impacts would be negligible, especially given that the site and environs are very sparsely populated. Potential impacts from maintenance activities on existing ambient noise levels would be detectable for a short duration, but given the rural, isolated location, any potential increase in noise would likely be undetectable or of little concern to the general public.
Lighting
Per Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) requirements, each turbine must have warning lights installed to alert nearby aircraft pilots of the turbine array. These warning lights would compromise the lucid dark night skies found in the project area, but the County’s Light Pollution Code exempts such uses for the sake of safety.
Decommissioning
The ASLD requires a surety bond to be posted per that agency’s processing guidelines for wind energy testing and energy production decommissioning on State Trust lands. As a Condition of Approval, the County would also require a decommissioning agreement in the event turbines or other project-related structures are sited on private land.
J. Water Conservation: Complies
Water use associated with the project is expected to be minimal, particularly post-construction. A well would be drilled to serve the O&M facility, with 200-gallons per day estimated. Any relevant construction would be required to conform to the water conservation regulations provided in the Zoning Regulations, as well as the applicable Comprehensive Plan policies, per Section 102E.
IX. PUBLIC COMMENT
The Department mailed notices to three neighboring property owners within one-mile of the subject properties. Staff posted the property on March 14 and published a legal notice in the Bisbee Observer on March 10. To date, the Department has received letters of support from the Southeast Arizona Economic Development Group, the City of Willcox, the Willcox Chamber of Commerce, the Willcox Regional Economic Development Alliance and the Benson City Council. Additionally, one Department form letter was received from an area resident within one-mile of the project site who conveyed concerns about potential impacts on view sheds and existing agriculture-related uses.
As part of the formal Appeal process, the Department mailed letters on May 13 to the Appellant, Applicant and property owners within one-mile of the subject properties, and published and posted legal notice at the site on May 16. To date, the Department has not received any comments regarding the submitted Appeal.
X. MODIFICATIONS
The following Modifications are requested:
1. A Modification of the maximum permitted height of 45-foot in the Rural Zoning Districts, per Section 604.02to allow for the approximate 487-foot turbine heights; and
2. A Modification from the minimum 20-foot wide road standard for commercial uses to allow for 16-foot wide setup and maintenance access, per the submitted application.
XI. SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION
This Appeal regards the Special Use authorization by the Planning and Zoning Commission for a utility-scale wind energy project on nine Sections of State Trust Land (and possibly a small portion of private land) located west of the City of Willcox. The project would include up to 28, approximately 487-ft. turbines and generators, as well as an operations and maintenance facility. The Appellant contends that project approval is premature due to a suggested lack of data regarding potential threats to biological resources. However, the project would continue to have considerable oversight by the Arizona State Lands Department to ensure that the project does not threaten said resources. That agency continues to work closely with the Arizona Game and Fish Department and the Applicant’s biological consultant to ensure biological resources aren’t unduly threatened.
The project is one deemed suitable in the rural location in which proposed and a Condition of Approval speaks to ensuring County roads used to transport infrastructure and equipment will be improved to pre-construction condition. In light of these and the other Factors Against Approval of the Appeal listed below, Staff recommends denial of the Appeal.
Factors in Favor of Upholding the Commission’s Decision (Denying the Appeal)
1. The project is consistent with the applicable Policies of the Comprehensive Plan and the Purpose of the Rural Zoning Districts;
2. The project would not be materially detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the public or to property in the vicinity;
3. The Arizona State Lands Department along with the Arizona Game and Fish Department continues to review the submitted right-of-way application for the project, including determining the potential for negative impacts upon biological and cultural resources and mitigation strategies if necessary. Post-construction bird and bat mortality analyses would help ensure impacts are minimal;
4. The project would support Arizona’s renewable energy standard of generating 15-per cent of electricity from renewable sources by 2025 by serving as a source of clean energy, offsetting greenhouse gas emissions and reducing the need to generate electricity from fossil fuels;
5. The project would provide increased revenue for the ASLD for the use of State-administered land;
6. Once completed the project would generate negligible levels of traffic;
7. The project would create an estimated 50-temporary jobs and at least four permanent jobs;
8. At build-out the project would use minimal water for power generation;
9. The project would allow State grazing leases to continue;
10. The project would be sited close to existing power distribution infrastructure; and
11. On April 10, 2013, the Planning and Zoning Commission voted 8-0 (with one abstention) to Conditionally Approve the project.
Factors in Favor of Granting the Appeal
1. There appear to be no factors in favor of overturning the Commission’s April 10, 2013, decision.
XII. RECOMMENDATION
Based on the Factors in Favor of Denial, Staff recommends that the Board deny the appeal, thereby upholding the Planning and Zoning Commission’s decision to Conditionally Approve the project with the following Conditions:
1. Prior to permit issuance, the Applicant shall submit a plan for transient dust mitigation for all grading and construction phases for the project;
2. If substantial construction progress has not occurred within three (3) years from the date of approval, the Special Use Authorization shall be revoked after 30-days notice to the Applicant;
3. The Applicant acknowledges that transporting equipment and materials to the property during construction is likely to damage Taylor or Airport Roads, and that the Applicant is responsible to pay the County the cost to repair such roads to their current condition by an outside contractor. Prior to permit issuance and transporting equipment and materials to the subject property for construction, i) the County Engineer will prepare a written baseline assessment of the current condition of such roads, to be acknowledged and agreed upon by the Applicant; and ii) the Applicant and the County will enter into a written agreement pursuant to which the Applicant will provide the County funds in the amount of $3,000,000, less the depreciation of such roads in the amount to be determined by the County Engineer, to be drawn upon by the County to pay for the cost of repair, with the balance after repair, if any, to be returned to the Applicant upon certification by the County Engineer that such roads have been repaired to their current condition.
No certificate of occupancy will be issued for use until such roads have been repaired or the County Engineer has determined that the Applicant has supplied sufficient funds to repair such roads to their current condition.
If, during the construction phase the County Engineer determines that such roads have become unsafe for travel, the County may draw down funds to pay for an interim repair as needed. This condition was based on the assumption that Taylor and Airport Roads will be the route taken for this Special Use Authorization. If an alternate route over other County-maintained roads is used, a new estimate and final agreement will be executed between the parties. In the event this project is decommissioned in whole or in part, an additional agreement will be executed between the parties to provide for necessary repair of any County-maintained roads utilized and the cost to remove all decommissioned structures on all private lands;
4. Within 30-days of approval of the Special Use Authorization, the Applicant shall provide the County a signed Acceptance of Conditions form and a Waiver of Claims form arising from ARS Section 12-1134. Prior to operation of the Special Use Authorization, the Applicant shall apply for a Building/Use Permit for the project within 12-months of approval;
5. The minimum setbacks from all parcel boundaries shall be 497-ft., which is at least equal to the horizontal distance from the turbines’ base to the parcel boundaries equal to the proposed total height of the turbine structure as measured from its base to the tip of its highest blade, plus 10-ft.;
6. The Building/Use Permit shall include a site plan in conformance with all applicable site development standards (except as Modified) and with Section 1705 of the Zoning Regulations, the completed Special Use permit questionnaire and application, and appropriate fees. A Building/Use Permit must be issued within 18-months of the Special Use Authorization approval, otherwise the Special Use Authorization may be deemed void upon 30-day notification to the Applicant;
7. It is the Applicant’s responsibility to obtain any additional permits, or meet any additional conditions, that may be applicable to the proposed use pursuant to other federal, state, or local laws or regulations; and
8. Any changes to the approved Special Use shall be subject to review by the Planning Department and may require additional Modification and approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
XIII. ATTACHMENTS
A. Special Use Appeal Application and Letter from Appellant
B. Special Use Application and Exhibits
C. Conceptual Design Plans
D. Agency Comments
E. Citizen Review Letter and Comments
F. State ROW Application
Department's Next Steps (if approved):
Provide an As You Are Aware letter to the Applicant permitting Torch Renewable Energy LLC. to apply for a Commercial Permit.
Impact of NOT Approving/Alternatives:
If the Board upholds the Planning and Zoning Commission Decision, the Applicant could apply for a commercial permit to construct and operate the proposed Wind Power Plant. If the Board upholds the Appeal of the decision, the facility will not be constructed.
To BOS Staff: Document Disposition/Follow-Up:
There will be no documents provided.
Budget Information
Information about available funds
Budgeted:
Funds Available:
Adjustment:
Amount Available:
Unbudgeted:
Funds NOT Available:
Amendment:
Account Code(s) for Available Funds
- 1:
Fund Transfers
Attachments
- Letter Benson San Pedro Chamber of Commerce
- Bowie Chamber Torch Renewable Letter
- RE_ Proposed Red Horse Wind 2 Wind Farm_Ginger Ritter
- SU Application
- SU Appeal Applicaton
- Conceptual Design Plans
- Agency Comments
- Citizen Review and Public Comments
- CitizenLetterOfConcern_HH
- Letter_AZ_GameAndFish
- State ROW Application
- Presentation