At the Sept. 29 fact-finding session on the proposed wind power ordinance in Rumford, it was apparent I was one of few in attendance who truly felt that wind turbines could have any positive impact on the town.

Expert panelists told me that if wind turbines are installed, taxes will go up, power bills will go up, property valuations will go down and that, since I live within a mile or so of the top of Black Mountain, there could be health issues associated with the sound produced by those behemoths.

Last time I checked, my taxes have gone up, my power bill likewise, and my property valuation has gone down.

I have also had more than one conversation with people associated with First Wind who have told me that if the wind towers are installed, taxes should go down, power bills should go down and valuations should go up.

Am I justified in being more than a little skeptical about the information I have received from both sides?

Why don’t we, as a community, wait to pass judgment on whether these wind towers would be beneficial until after hearing from First Wind? There are two scheduled informational meetings in the next few weeks. I am being assured that First Wind will be represented at the meetings. So will the anti-wind camp.

The public should hear both arguments and then make an informed decision on what will be best for the town, both now and in the future.

David Glover Sr., Rumford