State Representative Daniel Webster (R-Pembroke) recently voted no to legislation that would expedite the permitting process for land-based wind facilities.

In a written statement, Webster said he viewed this proposal as an attempt to usurp control from local governments by silencing their voices with respect to designating certain areas of the state as wind resource areas. Under the bill adopted by the House of Representatives this decision is left to a state board. Local decision making does not begin until after “wind resource areas” are designated by the state, and when the permitting process necessary to seek approval for land based wind projects begins.

Additionally, Webster opined that the legislature should not pick and choose which industries are subject to a streamlined permitting process. He suggested that the better route for Beacon Hill would be to reform Massachusetts General Law Chapter 40A, the state’s zoning statute, whereby the permitting process for all projects would be streamlined in a manner that would promote economic growth, affordable housing and green energy while preserving the character of each community. He believes the permitting process for all projects should be streamlined because local permitting can be over burdensome and stymie local economic development.

Furthermore, Representative Webster was concerned with the appeals process included in the legislation. Under House Bill 4687, parties aggrieved by a local wind permitting board’s decision to grant a wind facility permit are allowed an appeal before both the MA Division of Green Communities and the Superior Court. On the other hand, land based wind facility entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses and stimulate economic activity are only afforded an appeal directly to the Superior Court.

“I think this was a knee jerk reaction to promote land based wind facilities. The drawn out appeals process will undoubtedly lengthen the permitting. While I do support alternatives to fossil fuels, legislation that streamlines local permitting should include all industries. Such action will address today’s paramount concern which is to stimulate economic activity and help create jobs,” said Webster.