Generators: Reasonable limits on use are necessary
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Parkersburg's Municipal Planning Commission has referred an important ordinance for consideration to City Council. Last week, the group approved an amendment to Parkersburg's zoning code prohibiting people from using generators as their primary source of electricity, except in cases of temporary power loss.
The idea is to mitigate the risk posed by those who are "running those generators 24/7," as City Planner Connor LaVelle put it. Apparently, that is happening more frequently than most residents might think. In fact, when Commission Vice President Eric Gumm discussed it with Code Director Andy Nestor, he "was just really shocked at the level of frequency that it was happening."
And so, the ordinance would require primary electrical service to a building to come from a utility company or municipal electrical provider. Of course, wind and solar collection systems could supplement them; and those who wanted to use wind and solar as their primary source of electricity could seek a variance.
In fact, commission members rightly discussed several scenarios in which generator use would be permitted.
But the bottom line is this ordinance will prevent fires, carbon monoxide poisoning and perhaps squatters. It could prevent damage to property, illness and even death.
On the other hand, enforcement of such an ordinance would have to be accompanied by an effort to help connect those who are struggling with resources such as utility assistance.
"This will help curb some serious issues that they've been running into," LaVelle said.
No doubt Council understands that, and -- assuming there is nothing problematic lurking in the details -- will move swiftly on the matter.