On Tuesday (October 29th) Pioneer Green Energy issued an “Official Statement” in regard to the recent filing of two lawsuits, one in Cherokee County and one in Etowah County against Pioneer – in an effort to bring a proposed windmill farm project in each county, to a halt.
The Cherokee County suit, which was filed on October 21st, claims that the construction of those windmills will harm property values and will cause damage to the area’s natural beauty. The suit also contends that a disturbance of natural water sources, and potential harm to wildlife, could be considered possible negative consequences of the development.
Those named as plaintiffs’ in the suit include Geneva “Ginny” Shaver, J. Dwight Jones, Newman E. Mackey, Lathan Lancaster and James David Estes and they’re represented by the local firm of Buttram, Hawkins & Hopper – while Pioneer Green has obtained the services of Centre Attorney Al Shumaker; that suit names Pioneer Green, as well as the landowners who are allowing the use of their land for construction – as defendants.
The suit says that Pioneer Green’s plan to erect eight turbines in the county, projected at 570 feet in height, won’t result in any substantial power, due to a lack of potential wind energy in the area – claiming that this will result in the turbines eventually being abandoned.
A portion of that statement reads as follows (quote) “Our only desire is to conduct business and produce projects that create economic benefits and clean, homegrown energy – for Cherokee and Etowah counties – and the state of Alabama.” (end-quote)
That statement goes on to say (quote) “While our two projects are far from finished – we remain committed to their satisfactory completion. We are dedicated to cooperating, and doing what is right by the state, the counties, our projects, our team members and our investors. It is our hope that all information that becomes available through the legal process will allow an understanding of our vision and better inform the opinions of those who oppose us. At all times we will remain forthright and honest with ourselves and the communities in which we work.” (end-quote) – that statement concludes by saying that Pioneer Green Energy out of respect for the lawsuit – will not speculate about any issue or party at this time.
Pioneer Green Energy also issued a news release announcing their partnership with the Cherokee County Board of Education in which they plan to provide scholarships and in-class learning tools for local students in the future.
CLICK BELOW TO VIEW OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM PIONEER GREEN ENERGY
Pioneer – PGE_Official Statement_Etowah and Cherokee Lawsuits_20131025-1
