RIPLEY — Town of Ripley board members discussed issues involving wind and solar energy at their meeting last month.

Town Supervisor Laura K. Pless introduced Attorney Ben Wisniewski, who was to speak to the council regarding wind turbines. However, Wisniewski, who joined the meeting via Zoom, first updated the board on a matter that could impact the South Ripley Solar Project.

Wisniewski told those present that the New York State Power Authority has drafted a strategic plan, which would enable the state to become involved with the operations of 40 solar projects throughout New York.

“Basically, the state is getting an investment in 40 solar projects,” he said. “They have not named which projects, but there is a 270-megawatt project in the area of Ripley. It’s fair to assume that the South Ripley Solar Project is in negotiation with the state on this.”

Wisniewski said that, even though he just learned about this development, the state power authority has already begun regional hearings.

Pless asked if this development would affect any of the agreements the town has with the South Ripley Solar Project. Wisniewski answered he honestly does not know, but he is going to obtain more information.

In a related matter, Pless said she had asked Wisniewski to speak because Ripley residents have been approached by Bedrock Renewables of Golden Colo., a company which promotes wind energy in the United States. Representatives from the company have also contacted her, asking for a meeting, she said.

“Bedrock wants to meet with us,” Pless said. “Is it advisable to meet now or wait until we have more information?”

Wisniewski said Ripley has two laws in its zoning code that concern wind regulation. “Both laws are inadequate in setting standards,” he said. “I recommend the town revisit the zoning law and consider drafting a wind law that will mirror the town’s solar law.”

Wisniewski said he will send templates for such a law to the town to help the zoning board. “It will give you some measure of control over how wind projects will look in your area,” he said.

Wisniewski went on to say that it is important that the town not meet with representatives from Bedrock until a wind law has been drafted. “It’s not bad to have a meeting, but it’s important that you are prepared for it,” he said.

Pless asked Wisniewski if he could be present when the town does have a meeting with Bedrock Renewables. “We want to be as proactive as we can be about this,” she said. Wisniewski said he would be willing to attend the meeting.

In other business, council members agreed to purchase a new pressure washer. Highway Superintendent Jason Jones reported that the town had received two bids, one of which was below standards for the town’s needs. Pless said part of the cost will be paid with ARPA funds.

Pless told council members that the Ripley Farmland Protection Plan is nearly complete. She said that she hopes the plan will be ready for approval at the December meeting. “This has been a long time coming,” she said. “I know that the former board was working on it for a few years.”

Pless also reported the state has new, stricter regulations for kenneling and care of dogs that are brought in by the dog control officer. By December of 2025, all municipalities will be required to have a kennel that complies with the new regulations, she said.

Pless said the town will look at acquiring funding to renovate the bathrooms, located on the Town Property off of North State Street, because they already have electricity and water.