A 12-foot-high emergency generator for United Methodist Homes can be moved, but how soon depends on money and the weather.
The Planning and Zoning Commission approved the new site, less than 400 feet from the old one, for an oil tank and the generator at a special meeting Nov. 24 at City Hall.
The generator came under fire because the city mistakenly issued a permit without allowing the commission to review it. The generator would serve Wesley Heights, a subsidized complex for seniors, in emergencies. It is also necessary to operate the sprinkler system in case of a power loss.
But it took neighbors by surprise and they soon opposed it because it spoiled their view and generated noise. They complained at a hearing in front of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
The new site will be invisible from neighboring condominiums, and the generator harder to hear.
“The sound is diminished,” said Anthony Panico, zoning consultant.
But the generator may need to be started periodically to keep it functioning. Once permanently connected, there would be a weekly test for about 15 minutes – usually in the late morning – and a monthly test of all electrical systems under full load for about 30 minutes, also in the late morning, said Robert Congdon, vice president of Development and Public Relations for United Methodist Homes.
It would also run during periods of peak electricity demand, typically in the summer air-conditioning season, he added.
With the approval, United Methodist Homes can apply to the federal department of Housing and Urban Development for the extra funding to move the generator and tank, Congdon said. The coming winter could also delay moving the generator and tank.
A neighbor at last Tuesday’s meeting thanked the panel and Congdon, and other neighbors have backed the new site.
