DEEP CREEK LAKE — The public hearing scheduled for Wednesday for Messenger Limited Partnership’s request to the Garrett County Planning Commission to amend the Deep Creek watershed zoning ordinance to allow a wind farm in the rural resource zoning district has been rescheduled.

During a meeting Jan. 8, the planning commission voted unanimously to postpone the public hearing and rescheduleit for March 5 to allow the applicant more time to assemble information concerning the sound, wildlife impact and the appearance of the proposed wind turbines, according to minutes from the meeting. Planning commissioner Jeff Messenger recused himself from the vote as a landowner involved in the proposed project.

The commission also requested aesthetic views from different perspectives around the area and also raised questions about Maryland Public Service Commission requirements for an application for the wind turbines. During a commission meeting in December, Eric Robison, a member of the Deep Creek Lake Watershed Planning Steering Committee, questioned if Ogin (previously FloDesign) had applied to the PSC for a wind turbine certification for generating power. Lars Dorr, director of business development with Ogin Energy in Waltham, Mass., indicated he wasn’t aware of that requirement.

During the Jan. 8 meeting, Messenger stated that he will ensure that Ogin has the information to answer any questions that may arise at the public hearing. It is up to the developer to assume the risk of being able to comply with any state or federal regulations regarding wind turbines, according to Messenger.

Commission chairman Troy Ellington indicated that the Property Owners’ Association and other groups might have questions and concerns about the proposed turbines and the amendment to the zoning ordinance. The POA plans on attending the public hearing and presenting a paper opposing the proposed amendment, according to president Bob Hoffman.

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