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Missouri lawmakers hear both sides of transmission line argument
Some Missouri farmers and landowners want lawmakers to block construction
of the high voltage, Grain Belt wind energy transmission line that will run
through private property in Northern Missouri. State House members heard both
sides of the argument: That the lines are in the public interest and the
company can claim eminent domain, and the lines are intrusive and eminent
domain is heavy-handed.
“That particular project, in my opinion and our association’s opinion, is one
of the most pervasive invasions of private property rights we’ve ever seen in
this state,” said Mike Deering, executive vice president of the Missouri
Cattlemen’s Association, who opposes the line because of Grain Belt using the
power of eminent domain.
On the other hand, the project is supported by Jeff Berkstrom, General Manager
of Marshall Municipal Utilities. He says tapping into this power will save
customers $700,000 a year.
“An opportunity like this is very huge for Marshall and small communities like
the other 38 that are in the pool to compete in today’s world,” said Berkstrom,
in testimony at the hearing.
The Grain Belt transmission project has been approved by the Missouri Public
Service Commission, but the bill being considered by Missouri lawmakers would
try to stop the line before any towers go up.
In the meantime, opponents of the line say they’ll appeal the Public Service
Commission’s ruling.
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