Peoria County Zoning Board of Appeals Hearing

Peoria County Zoning Board of Appeals hearing on October 1, 2026, continued consideration of the proposed 4 Creeks Wind Project and its special-use application. An environmental witness was questioned about turbine setbacks, protected lands, wildlife surveys and potential bird and bat mortality. He said the project would follow Illinois Department of Natural Resources recommendations, including operational curtailment, and that the proposed turbines would reach 657 feet. The hearing also addressed whether mapping and consultation materials were complete and whether certain late-submitted reports and exhibits should be admitted; the board had not yet ruled on the application or approved the project by the close of this session.

Several participating landowners testified in support, citing supplemental farm income and anticipated tax revenue for local schools and services. One landowner estimated lease income of $20,000–$30,000 per year; a Stark County school superintendent described potential annual project revenue of roughly $41,000–$61,000, while questioning referenced an estimate of $27,750 by year 18. Other testimony and public comments raised concerns about wildlife, roads, property impacts, and the project’s effects on local communities. No procurement activity, contract award, or purchasing decision was identified.