Staff writer
bniedbala@observer-reporter.com
ROGERSVILLE - A state Public Utility Commission attorney explained the process the PUC follows in considering approval of electric transmission lines during an informational meeting Tuesday at Center Township fire hall.
Kirk House, lead attorney for the PUC's Office of Special Assistance, also informed the about 20 people in attendance how residents can become involved in the approval process.
The meeting was arranged by the Greene County Planning Commission and state Sen. J. Barry Stout, D-Bentleyville, after residents questioned plans by Allegheny Power to construct a 138-kilovolt line for an expansion of Cumberland Mine in Center Township.
The proposed 2.4-mile line is being planned to serve the mine and reinforce the area's transmission system, said Allegheny Power spokesman Doug Colafella.
Colafella, reached prior to the meeting, noted the route for the proposed line recently was changed. Owners of 10 properties over which the line will run under the revised route all have been sent registered letters informing them of the plan, he said.
Allegheny Power had not been asked to attend the informational meeting. House, in addition, said he could not discuss the project because he might be asked to participate in the case.
The company has not yet filed an application with the PUC for the line. Colafella said the company expects to file the application mid- to late August.
House explained the PUC's extensive process in considering approval of a transmission line when an application is contested.
A person with a "direct interest" in the project can file as an intervenor and participate in formal evidentiary hearings or be a "non-active party" and receive notices of hearings, all of which are open to the public.
Part of the process also involves public input hearings, which are advertised, at which anyone can testify, he said.
The PUC does not approve a line simply because the company says it is needed, House said. It must prove the need exists and demonstrate the proposed project is the best alternative, does not create a health or safety hazard and has a minimal environmental impact, he said.