Assemblyman Steve Hawley (R,C,I-Batavia) today urged constituents to voice their opinions on the Lighthouse Wind, LLC project, which recently opened a public comment period that began November 18.

“The Lighthouse Wind, LLC project has the potential to have major economic and social implications for local residents,” Hawley said. “Wherever you fall on this issue, the most important thing is that your voice is heard. The 21-day comment period is now open and will close on December 9. Government is responsible to the citizens, and public comment and dissent is an integral and inherent part of our democratic process. I encourage all constituents to voice their comments at Lighthouse Wind, 310 4th St. NE, Suite 200, Charlottesville, VA 22902, and file a copy with the Secretary of the Department of Public Service.”

Hawley also reiterated his sponsorship of two bills aimed at increasing public input on local projects and strong opposition to Article X in order to give the local population greater representation in decisions that affect their community.

“As a result of my strong push for public input on local issues and staunch opposition to Article X, I am vehemently supporting two bills aimed at increasing public involvement in projects such as these. A.8545 would increase membership on the siting board from 7 to 9 members, increase the number of ad hoc members from 2 to 4, and require all ad hoc members to be present for a quorum.

“Another bill, A.8564, would require a public referendum to be held by the county or district where the project is located and mandate a certificate be issued for the proposal if the majority of voters are in favor of the project. Both of these bills increase public accessibility to local projects and create avenues for citizens to voice their concerns.”