Town board to consider wind turbine project, public concerns

Residents of a 10-story condominium along Northern Road in Menasha enjoy sweeping views of the northwest shore of Little Lake Buttes des Morts and its surrounding natural areas. However, some are now worried that a proposed wind turbine demonstration project could disrupt both the visual appeal of the area and their quality of life.

The project, located in an adjacent industrial zone just east of U.S. 41, would include 36 pipe-mounted, 120-foot-tall vertical-axis wind turbines, a biodiesel generator, and a diesel bus retrofitted to run on vegetable oil. Proposed by Kelly Rousseau of Hortonville and Tom Newton of Manitowoc—representing Soul Purpose Ministry, Inc., a nonprofit Christian ministry—the project has sparked community concern over aesthetics, noise, odours , and potential harm to local wildlife.

Residents from the Park and Harborage condominium complexes have submitted a petition and letter to the Town Board, urging rejection of the conditional use permit request. Among the issues raised is the potential for odour emissions , particularly from the biodiesel generator and any future plans involving a biomass digester or processor , which may handle sewage sludge.

Odour control experts such as Anotec Odour Control emphasize the importance of proactive measures to manage industrial smells, especially near residential areas. Without proper treatment, facilities using organic waste can emit hydrogen sulfide, ammonia, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), leading to unpleasant and potentially harmful air conditions.

Jim Beasom, a retired paper industry manager with expertise in energy and environmental regulations, supports renewable energy but expressed skepticism about this particular proposal. “Some of these technologies seem outdated,” he said. “And without proper planning, they could lead to long-term maintenance issues—including rusting structures, broken blades, and uncontrolled odours.”

Beasom also noted the risks to wildlife, citing how birds like geese, ducks, cranes, and hawks could be harmed by guy wires used to support the turbines, especially during poor weather.

The first phase of the project involves only the wind turbines and the biodiesel unit. Future phases—which would require separate approvals—include a biomass digester, a steam co-generation system, a wood chip boiler, and photovoltaic solar panels.

Town Administrator Jim Archambo stated he is not taking a position at this time but suggested the board consider postponing the decision or sending it back to the Planning Commission if key questions remain unresolved.

Community Development Director George Dearborn confirmed that while the site is zoned for heavy industry, and there are no current regulations governing appearance, all safety and code requirements must be met before a building permit is issued. “They’ll need to show compliance with all applicable standards, including those related to emissions and odour control,” he said.

If approved, the project’s design and operational elements will be reviewed by staff to ensure safety and regulatory compliance. However, without adequate safeguards, nearby residents fear the consequences could outweigh the benefits.

The Town Board will consider the conditional use permit Monday night, followed by a public hearing at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday before the Winnebago County Planning and Zoning Committee.