Public Hearing Slated for April 1

On April 1st and 2nd, the Taos County Commission will begin to hear appeals from groups and individuals in response to the Planning and Zoning board's December findings regarding Taos Wind Farm. At least two attorneys representing those opposed to PnZ's decision will make opening statements, followed by a video review of the September and December public hearings. The second day should be more lively as the commission grapples with the loaded question, "Did PnZ violate the county Land Use Regulations in recommending preliminary approval of this project?"

Planning Department senior staff found the project to be utterly incompatible with neighboring properties, which is a big deal. (Lacking traditional zoning, Taos County relies on mutual compatibility in deciding land use and recommending variances.) But the PnZ board decided that because the project was "special", it had their blessing no matter what the County code required.

We do not expect this issue to be settled at the commission level, but rather in District Court before a neutral judge.

The public hearing will begin at 9:00 in the Commission Chambers on Albright Street in Taos.