WE Energies Buffer Zone Eliminates 196 Acres From Caledonia Property Tax Roll

CALEDONIA -- Little by little, more than 196 acres of property have disappeared off the property tax roll in the Village of Caledonia.

According to a report from the Racine County Eye- WE Energies has been steadily purchasing property near its WE Energies Oak Creek Power Plant to create a buffer zone between the plant and area residences.

The total assessed value of those properties in 2014 was reported at $3.4 million, and represents a nearly $70,000 annual loss that village taxpayers have to make up.

Read the Racine County Eye's full report here, including reaction from village officials, and about a group of families who are currently in talks with WE Energies about buying their properties.

You can also read the Racine County Eye's ongoing coverage of WE Energies here, as health concerns plague residents who live near the power plant.

Image: Scott Anderson/Patch