Nonprofit Takes Legal Action Against Gov. Inslee’s Wind Farm Decision

Tri-Cities CARES, a nonprofit organization, is set to file a lawsuit against Washington Governor Jay Inslee following his approval of the Horse Heaven wind farm project, which is poised to become the largest wind farm in the state. The decision has raised concerns among local residents and environmental advocates due to the loosening of previously recommended restrictions.

Key Takeaways

Tri-Cities CARES plans to challenge the approval of the Horse Heaven wind farm.
The wind farm will span 24 miles along the Horse Heaven Hills, south of the Tri-Cities.
The lawsuit could cost around $200,000 and must be filed by December 2.
Inslee’s approval reduced the number of turbines and mitigation measures for environmental impacts.

The Horse Heaven wind farm, stretching from Finley to Benton City, is expected to include up to 222 turbines, each approximately 500 feet tall, along with solar panels and battery storage. The project has been a point of contention, with Tri-Cities CARES arguing that the revised approval undermines environmental protections and community interests.

Paul Krupin, a board member of Tri-Cities CARES, expressed gratitude for the community’s support during their fundraising efforts, which have provided enough resources to initiate the lawsuit. Although the exact amount raised has not been disclosed, the group estimates that the total cost of the legal battle could exceed $200,000.

Timeline of Events

October 18: Inslee approved a revised recommendation for the Horse Heaven wind farm.
November 1: The official announcement of Inslee’s decision triggered the timeline for potential legal action.
December 2: Deadline for filing the lawsuit in Thurston County Superior Court.

The Washington State Energy Facility Site Evaluation Council (EFSEC) had previously recommended a more restrictive approach, citing concerns over endangered species, cultural properties, and the visual impact of the turbines on the Tri-Cities skyline. However, Inslee’s approval relaxed these restrictions, leading to significant opposition from local residents who fear the project will industrialize their scenic landscape.

Community Concerns

Visual Impact: Residents are worried about the turbines altering the southern skyline, which is known for its picturesque sunsets.
Environmental Risks: The reduction in protective measures for endangered ferruginous hawks and tribal cultural resources has raised alarms among environmentalists.
Population Proximity: An estimated 100,000 residents of Benton County would live within six miles of the proposed turbines, significantly higher than the state average.

Despite the support from local unions, who view the project as a source of construction jobs, the opposition remains strong. Tri-Cities CARES is also in discussions with Benton County and the Yakama Nation, both of which have the standing to join the lawsuit.

As the legal battle looms, Tri-Cities CARES is preparing for a challenging year ahead, with the potential to impact the future of renewable energy development in Washington State. The outcome of this lawsuit could set a precedent for how large-scale energy projects are evaluated and approved in the region, balancing the need for clean energy with community and environmental concerns.