LAS VEGAS, N.M. (AP) - A San Miguel County task force has proposed requiring a three-mile distance between homes and wind farms, but County Commissioner Nicholas Leger is concerned that such a large gap could discourage the industry.

Leger said Monday he supports a shorter distance but hasn't determined what it would be.

The issue has been debated at public hearings as a Chicago-based company, Invenergy, considers whether to build a wind farm with dozens of turbines on Bernal mesa. The county is drafting a new wind ordinance that will replace a seven-year-old rule.

Invenergy has recommended a 1,500-foot buffer - a little more than a quarter mile.

Madison Vineyards and Winery owner Bill Madison says the towers would lower property values and create unwanted noise. He says voters should decide the issue, not commissioners.

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Information from: Las Vegas Optic

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