Your message has been received and will be read after November 23.
On Nov 20, 2009, at 5:22 AM, QuickTopic daily digest <qtopic-39- vGfqsd3A5uD@quicktopic.com> wrote:

< replied-to message removed by QT >

Edited by author 11-19-2009 01:54 AM

CARE Ethnic Dinner on Saturday, Nov. 21 promises great eating

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold another incredible Ethnic Dinner fundraiser 5 to 7 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 21, 2009 at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

CARE's Ethnic Dinner fundraisers are gaining a great following of devoted diners. It's no surprise -- these are some of the best dinners and best dinner values around. Look at this menu:

MENU

Pierogies
Swedish Meatballs
Shepherd Pie
Roast Beef
Stuffed Cabbage
Ground Nut Stew
Elk Chili
Homemade Rolls
German Potato Salad
Chicken Paprikas
Mac & Cheese
Chicken And Dumpling
Pasta & Sauce
Rancho Beans
Salad & Fix’ns
And Much More...

This is an all-you-can-eat dinner with no reservations required. The cost is $10 per person for all you can eat; children 6-12 are $4; children under 6 free. Carry-out available service will be available for stay-at-home diners.

The drawing for the CARE $1,000 Holiday Shopping Spree Raffle will take place during the dinner. Tickets are $1 each or $5 for six. Get tickets from any CARE member. The winner will get the cash to spend anywhere he or she likes.

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 10-08-2009 01:31 AM

CARE offers a Night at the Races on Friday, October 17

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold a night of fun at its NIGHT AT THE RACES fundraiser on Saturday, October 17, 2009, at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Tickets are $15 and include a Fantastic DiFranco dinner.

MENU

Roast Beef
Green Beans Almandine
Roasted Redskin Potatoes
Pasta & Sauce
Salad
Dessert
BYOB
Doors Open at 5:30 p.m.
Dinner at 6:00 p.m.
Races 7:00 p.m. to Midnight

This is an adult-only event. Get your tickets early.
For ticket info contact Pat Jonath, 440-636-5153, or Mary DiFranco, 440-968-3917. Click here for the event poster.

Visit CARE's web site
.

CARE Holiday Shopping Spree Raffle tickets on sale now

CARE Holiday Shopping Spree Raffle tickets are available now from any CARE member, or by calling CARE Treasurer Pat Jonath at (440) 636-5153.

This is another great drawing for $1000, to be awarded at the CARE ETHNIC DINNER FUNDRAISER on Saturday, Nov. 21, in time for your "day-after-Thanksgiving" shopping pleasure. The winner will get the cash to spend anywhere he or she likes.

Tickets are $1 each or six for $5.

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 09-06-2009 02:15 AM

CARE Clambake and Steak Roast is Sept. 25

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) is again hosting a DiFranco Clambake and Steak Roast fundraiser for 6 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 26, 2009, at the Montville Community Center, southeast corner of U.S. Rt.. 6 and Ohio 528, in Montville. Click here to view a poster.

Last fall, clam bake and steak roast enthusiasts traveled from far and wide to partake of the CARE Clambake and Steak Roast. The verdict was unanimous — it was the best they had ever tasted. This year's version is guaranteed to be the highlight of the clam bake season.

Admission to the dinner is by advance-sale ticket only, and ticket sales will end early to make certain there will be an adequate supply of all the fixin's . Call Pat Jonath, CARE Treasurer at (440) 636-5153 for tickets.

Visit CARE's web site
.

I came across this site researching my fathers death in 1991. He worked for Cleveland Electric Illuminating Co. He died at age 49 from a "rare" form of lymphoma that the Oncologist said was due to working in the high energy fields near the transformers. Dont know if this fits this websites agenda??

Media Coverage Update - 62

Geauga County Maple Leaf, July 22, 2009

CARE claims sign theft by FirstEnergy workers

.

Edited by author 06-15-2009 02:14 AM

CARE No Jive, Turkey Dinner is this Saturday, June 20

Once again, CARE is planning a great fundraising dinner. You won't want to miss this one! LOOK AT THIS MENU:
Turkey & gravy
Mashed Potatoes
Sweet Potatoes or Yams
Stuffing
Green Bean Casserole
Cranberry Sauce
Corn
Applesauce
Orange-Pineapple Jello Salad
Cherry Whip
Salad Rolls / Bread & Butter

Please join us on June 20, 2009 5 to 7 p.m., at the Montville Community Center, Rt. 528 just south of Rt. 6, Montville.
$8.00 Adults; 4.00 Kids K - 6th grade; Pre-School “Free”.

Bring the whole family!! Carryouts available for stay-at-homes
Come Hungry! Leave Stuffed! For any questions feel free to call Pat at 440-636-5153. CARE has a website at www.caregeauga.org where more information is available.

Visit CARE's web site
.

Media Coverage Update - 61

The News-Herald, March 18, 2009

Geauga group appeals to high court

.

Edited by author 03-19-2009 12:49 AM

Media Coverage Update - 60

Geauga County Maple Leaf, March 13, 2009

CARE files appeal with Ohio Supreme Court

.

Edited by author 03-03-2009 01:42 AM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, MARCH 5, 2009 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, March 5, 2009, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

DON'T MISS THE MARCH MEETING, DETAILING CARE'S UPCOMING EVENTS AND PROJECTS
The CARE committees are planning new programs, projects and events. Stay on top of what CARE is doing for YOU.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Edited by author 03-03-2009 02:11 AM
THE FABULOUS DIFRANCO FISH FRIES ARE BACK!
It's that time of year again. You've waited all winter and your patience is about to be rewarded. Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) is sponsoring SIX DiFranco Fish Fries this season. The dates are:
Friday, March 6
Friday, March 13
Friday, March 20
Friday, March 27
Friday, April 3
Friday, April 10

We'll be serving from 5 to 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

All you can eat dinner includes DESSERT! $8.50 Adults Pre-School Children FREE • K - 6th Grade $4.00
Carryouts available for stay-at-homes
Click here for the poster.

Friends and neighbors, this is no ordinary fish fry. The DiFranco Fish Fries are LEGENDARY. You will not find a better fish dinner, or a better value anywhere in the area. See you there!

Feb. 7 is last chance to reserve tickets for CARE Valentine's Day dinner

Read story on CARE website

.

February 5 CARE meeting to feature legal update by Tom Lee

Read story on CARE website

.

Media Coverage Update - 59

Geauga County Maple Leaf, February 5, 2009

CARE rehearing request denied

.

Edited by author 02-05-2009 01:11 AM

Media Coverage Update - 58

Geauga County Maple Leaf, February 5, 2009

Power siting board denies CARE's application

.

Media Coverage Update - 57

The News-Herald, January 27, 2009

OPSB won't rehear Geauga County power line case

.

Edited by author 01-14-2009 05:19 PM

OPSB Update

Ohio Power Siting Board revises January 26 agenda;
will take up CARE's request for rehearing

REVISED OHIO POWER SITING BOARD MEETING

January 26, 2009

3:30 PM, Room 11E

A G E N D A

Approval of the minutes of the regular Board meeting of November 24, 2008.

Case No. 08-0281-EL-BGN, Consideration of the Application by Middletown Coke Company for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need for the Middletown Coke Company Cogeneration Station.

Case No. 07-171-EL-BTX, Consideration of Entry on Rehearing concerning the Application of American Transmission Systems, Incorporated, and the Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need for the Geauga County 138 kV Transmission Line Supply Project.

Case No. 08-1024-EL-ORD, Consideration of Entry on Rehearing concerning the Ohio Power Siting Board’s Adoption of Chapter 4906-17 of the Ohio Administrative Code and the Amendment of Certain Rules in Chapters 4906-1, 4906-5 and Rule 4906-7-17 of the Ohio Administrative Code to Implement Certification Requirements for Electric Generating Wind Facilities.

Staff Update

.

Edited by author 01-01-2009 04:59 PM

Media Coverage Update - 56

Geauga County Maple Leaf, December 25, 2008

Council replaces longtime solicitor
Attorney's representation of CARE created conflicts

.

Edited by author 01-01-2009 05:00 PM

Media Coverage Update - 55

Geauga County Maple Leaf, December 18, 2008

Transmission line ruling to be appealed

.

Media Coverage Update - 55

The News-Herald, December 24, 2008

Board gives FirstEnergy more time to respond

.

Media Coverage Update - 54

The News-Herald, December 18, 2008

Geauga group makes move in power line case

.

Media Coverage Update - 53

The News-Herald, November 30, 2008

Panel made best decision it could

.

Media Coverage Update - 52

The News-Herald, November 27, 2008

Geauga County Commissioners pleased with siting board decision

.

Media Coverage Update - 51

The News-Herald, November 25, 2008

Geauga power line approved by board

.

CARE is going to be at the Craft Fair at Ledgemont High School on Dec.7th, 2008. Please let me know if you are willing to bake or do a craft for it.
Please come and support CARE.

This war is far from over. Have patience and we will be rewarded.

How sad. My thoughts and prayers go out to the 528 landowners. Maybe some day something will encroach on those that have encroached on you, only then and maybe,will they ever understand. May God Bless!

Edited by author 11-25-2008 01:50 AM

OPSB Update

Ohio Power Siting Board approves construction
of new transmission line in Geauga and Lake counties

COLUMBUS, OHIO (Nov. 24, 2008) – The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) today authorized the construction of a 138 kilovolt electric transmission line in Geauga and Lake counties. The line will be owned and operated by American Transmission Systems, Inc. (ATSI) and Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company (CEI).

The 14.7-mile long transmission line will run east of State Route 528 through Huntsburg, Montville and Thompson townships in northeast Geauga County and into Madison Township in southern Lake County. The companies plan to complete construction of the line and have it in service by summer 2010.

On Sept. 28, 2007, ATSI and CEI filed an application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need to construct the transmission line. In their application, the companies cited a need to provide additional electric capacity and reliability for CEI customers in the area due to commercial and residential growth. The application proposed the preferred route near SR 528 and an alternate route parallel to Clay Street.

Several parties formally intervened in the Board’s proceedings, including Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy, the Geauga Park District, the city of Chardon, the village of Orwell, and Industrial Energy Users-Ohio.

On Aug. 12, 2008, following review of the companies’ application, OPSB staff filed a report recommending that the Board authorize construction of the transmission line along the preferred route. The staff also recommended 43 specific conditions that the company must meet to remediate the environmental and socioeconomic impacts presented by the project.

At three local public hearings held during August and September 2008, 75 public witnesses testified about the proposed line. Citizens also contacted the Board by mail. Some public opinion was opposed to the project due to concerns with aesthetics and impacts to local farmland, wildlife and property values. Others testified in support of the project, including business owners concerned with poor electric service and reliability and the potential impact on operations.

The Board evaluated the companies’ application and the comments and testimony of the public and interveners, and concluded that a certificate should be granted authorizing construction along the preferred route. Construction is subject to the 43 conditions recommended by the OPSB staff.

The OPSB reviews applications for construction of large electric and natural gas facilities in Ohio. The 11-member board is comprised of representatives of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO), the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, the state departments of Development, Natural Resources, Agriculture and Health, the Ohio General Assembly, and the public. The Chairman of the PUCO also chairs the OPSB.

Additional information regarding this project is available on the OPSB Web site at www.OPSB.ohio.gov.

.

CARE invites you to enjoy an ETHNIC DINNER, Saturday Novemeber 22 at Montville Community Center from 5-7:00 pm.
All-you-can- eat::::pierogies, stuffed cabbage, Slovak Halushki, German potato salad, pepperoni rolls, rancho beans, clam chowder, mac & cheese, elk & sausage chilli,and homemade rolls. All of this for only $10 for adults--children 6-12 $4.00 Carryouts available.
ALSO THE DRAWING FOR THE $1,000 SPENDING SPREE WILL BE HELD.
Any questions call Pat Jonath---440-636-5153

CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, November 6, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS, WE ARE NOW ABSOLUTELY IN THE HEART OF OUR WAR TO PRESERVE OUR COUNTY
There have been so many developments since the last meeting, you need to attend the September Regular CARE meeting. Here is a small sample of the agenda for this meeting:

• THE CARE DEFENSE FUND CAMPAIGN -- KEEPING OUR WAR CHEST STRONG
• Status of OPSB Process
• CARE's ALL IMPORTANT LEGAL BRIEF
• The REPLY BRIEFS from both parties
• All public hearing transcripts are now on line
• Continued squirming by FirstEnergy over their "Confidential" documents

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

OPSB Update

Adjudicatory Hearing transcripts available

Transcript Volume I of American Transmission Systems, Inc.hearing held September 16, 2008 (212 pages)
Transcript Volume II of American Transmission Systems, Inc. hearing held September 17, 2008 (255 pages)
Transcript Volume III of American Transmission Systems hearing held September 18, 2008 (352 pages)

Transcript for American Transmission hearing held on October 1, 2008 (Rebuttal Hearing - 134 pages)

.

Edited by author 09-27-2008 12:17 AM

Media Coverage Update - 50

Geauga County Maple Leaf, September 25, 2008

Current solicitor's dual representation creates conflict with council

Lawyer's representation of CARE in power line controversy a concern

.

Media Coverage Update - 49

The News-Herald, September 23, 2008

Middlefield Council seeks applications for solicitor

.

Edited by author 10-06-2008 12:52 AM

OPSB Update

September 10 Huntsburg hearing transcripts available

Transcript and exhibits for hearing on Wednesday, September 19, 2008, in Huntsburg, Ohio before J. Stoneking. (Part 1 of 4)
Transcript & Exhibits continued. (Part 2 of 4)
Transcript & Exhibits continued. (Part 3 of 4)
Transcript & Exhibits continued. (Part 4 of 4)

.

Media Coverage Update - 48

Geauga County Maple Leaf, September 18, 2008

Grendell presents alternatives to transmission line

.

OPSB Update

August 28 Huntsburg hearing transcript available

Transcript and exhibits for hearing held on August 28, 2008 at the Huntsburg Town Hall, Huntsburg, Ohio before AE's J. Stoneking and G. See

.

Edited by author 09-10-2008 05:02 AM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, September 11, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS, WE ARE NOW ABSOLUTELY IN THE HEART OF OUR WAR TO PRESERVE OUR COUNTY
There have been so many developments since the last meeting, you need to attend the September Regular CARE meeting. Here is a small sample of the agenda for this meeting:

• Fundraising Requirements
• Recognition of new benefactors
• Status of OPSB Process – we are now in the thick of it.
• All direct testimony filed on September 8.
• Case status conference of September 9.
• Results of the three local public hearings.
• Preparation for the adjudicatory hearing on September 16.
• Adjudicatory hearing and witness schedule.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Edited by author 09-06-2008 01:24 AM

OPSB Update

Thompson hearing transcript available

Transcript for proceedings held Wednesday, August 27, 2008, at 4:38 p.m., held at the Ledgemont Elementary-Middle School, 16200 Burrows Road, Thompson, Ohio before Administrative Law Judge, Janet Stoneking, and Administrative Law Judge, Greta See.

.

Media Coverage Update - 47

Geauga County Maple Leaf, September 4, 2008

300 turnout for transmission line hearings

.

Media Coverage Update - 46

The News-Herald, August 29, 2008

Many sides of power line issue heard

.

I'm new here, just wanted to say hello and introduce myself.

Media Coverage Update - 45

Geauga County Maple Leaf, August 21, 2008

Report favors Route 528 path for power line

.

Edited by author 08-18-2008 11:34 PM
ADJUDICATORY HEARING DATE CHANGED
On August 7, 2008, the CARE legal team filed a petition to continue the adjudicatory hearing, i.e., postpone it to a later date. The legal team asked for an immediate ruling. Click here to view the entry on the case docket.

The motion and memorandum in support did the job. On August 14, 2008, Judge Stoneking entered an order that continued the adjudicatory hearing until Tuesday, September 16, 2008. Click here to view the entry on the case docket. It is my understanding that the hearing is expected to last nine days, thus the complete hearing is planned to run from September 16 - 19 and September 22 - 26.

According to the order, the case procedural schedule is now as follows:

Case Status Conference: August 18, 2008
Local Public Hearings: August 27 & 28, 2008
Discovery Completion: August 29, 2008
File Direct Testimony: September 8, 2008
Local Public Hearing: September 10, 2008
File Staff Testimony: September 16, 2008
Adjudicatory Hearing: September 16, 2008

The adjudicatory hearing is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m., at the offices of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, 180 East Broad Street, 11th floor, Hearing Room F, Columbus, Ohio 43215-3793. Click here for a map showing the PUCO building

Visit CARE’s web site.

Media Coverage Update - 44

The News-Herald, August 18, 2008

Chardon council backs off endorsing power line

.

Edited by author 08-15-2008 05:08 PM
OPSB Calendar

OPSB Adjudicatory hearing rescheduled to September 16

The most recent version of the OPSB Calendar indicates that the start of the adjudicatory hearing has been rescheduled from Tuesday, September 2, 2008 to Tuesday, September 16, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., at the offices of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, 180 East Broad Street, 11th floor. Hearing Room F, Columbus, Ohio 43215

More information regarding the proposed transmission line is available at www.opsb.ohio.gov.
.

Media Coverage Update - 43

The Plain Dealer, August 12, 2008

Power lines would be best in eastern Geauga County, report says

.

Media Coverage Update - 42

The News-Herald, August 8, 2008

Geauga power line hearing set for Sept. 10

.

Edited by author 08-10-2008 05:05 PM
COMPLETE SET OF SCANNED MAPS IS NOW ONLINE
Many individuals have asked to have the color route maps published in the application available online. Here they are!

Click here to visit the complete set. If the link fails, browse to http://www.huntsburg.org/firstenergy/ and follow the page index to "Maps of proposed routes in the application."

The cross country route is complete and online. The Clay Street route is almost finished and will be online shortly. Check back soon.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Edited by author 08-07-2008 04:30 PM

Media Coverage Update - 41

Geauga County Maple Leaf, August 7, 2008

Transmission line controversy to take center stage

.

OPSB release

OPSB schedules third Geauga County transmission line public hearing

COLUMBUS, OHIO (Aug. 6, 2007) – The Ohio Power Siting Board (OPSB) today scheduled an additional local public hearing to give consumers an opportunity to express their views regarding American Transmission Systems, Inc.’s (ATSI) application to construct a 138-kilovolt electric transmission line in Geauga County.

The third local public hearing is scheduled as follows:
Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2008 at 6 p.m.
Huntsburg Town Hall, Second Floor
16534 Mayfield Road
Huntsburg, Ohio

The OPSB previously scheduled two additional local public hearings. These hearings are set for:
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 2008, at 4:30 p.m.
Ledgemont Elementary – Middle School Gymnasium
16200 Burrows Road
Thompson, Ohio
Thursday, Aug. 28, 2008, at 1:30 p.m.
Huntsburg Town Hall, Second Floor
16534 Mayfield Road
Huntsburg, Ohio

More information regarding the proposed transmission line is available at www.opsb.ohio.gov.
.

Edited by author 08-04-2008 01:22 AM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 7, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, August 7, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

There are so many main topics that they barely fit into one meeting:

• Legal Update.
• The upcoming PUBLIC HEARINGS on August 27 and 28.
• CARE's witnesses for the ADJUDICATORY HEARING.
• The CARE Silent Auction Fundraiser.

While on the topic of fundraisers, bring your ideas and items for the

CARE Silent Auction
Saturday, September 13, 2008
It's not too early to start selling tickets to this wonderful event.
Also, the date of the September CARE regular meeting has been changed by one week to Thursday, September 11, 2008. The original date conflicted with the Adjudicatory Hearing in Columbus.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Edited by author 07-18-2008 01:03 AM
SAVE THIS DATE:
SEPTEMBER 27, 2008
for the
CARE CLAM BAKE FUNDRAISER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) is planning a CLAM BAKE fundraiser for Saturday, September 27, 2008, at the Montville Community Center. Click here for a map. This event is being planned by THE DIFRANCO FAMILY, creators of all previous fantastic CARE fundraising dinners. More details will be posted when they are available.

Sure, there are lots of clam bakes in the fall -- but this is the one to NOT MISS. The DiFranco clam bakes are LEGENDARY, guaranteed to be the highlight of the clam bake season.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Media Coverage Update - 40

News-Herald, July 12, 2008

Grendell back on the line

.

Media Coverage Update - 39

The Star Beacon, June 25, 2008

CARE group early intervenor in FirstEnergy power line case

.

Edited by author 07-13-2008 05:20 PM

Media Coverage Update - 38

The Star Beacon, June 23, 2008

What a shock!

Orwell Village enters as intervenor in CEI power case

.

Edited by author 07-13-2008 05:10 PM

Media Coverage Update - 37

News-Herald, June 19, 2008

FirstEnergy passes on Chardon trail

.

Edited by author 07-12-2008 01:50 AM
Local Public Hearing dates for The Geauga 138 kV Transmission Line Supply Project have been announced by Judge Stoneking.

On Friday, July 11, 2008, Judge Janet Stoneking wrote an order with wide-spread impact on all aspects of our case.

Click here to go to the case docket entry containing the order

Click here to read the full text of Judge Janet Stoneking's order

Of most immediate importance to CARE members and friends, the order fixed the dates of the following procedural milestones:

Witness Identification: August 1,2008
File Staff Report: August 12, 2008
Discovery Completion: August 15,2008
Case Status Conference: August 18,2008
File Direct Testimony: August 25,2008
Local Public Hearings: August 27 - 28,2008
Adjudicatory Hearing: September 2,2008

It is most unfortunate that Judge Stoneking did not consider the date conflict between the Local Public Hearings and The Great Geauga County Fair.
 
This year, we must forego the first day of the wonderful Fair in an effort to protect Geauga County.

There will be many more Great Geauga County Fairs, but this is our one and only chance to rescue our legacy, heritage and precious green space from attack by a merciless $32.4 billion corporation and an uncaring government.

Please plan to attend the Local Public hearings. There will be much more information to follow.

Best Regards,

Jim Galm
President, CARE
jgalm@caregeauga.org
www.caregeauga.org
(216) 346-0782

Visit CARE’s web site.

Edited by author 06-30-2008 04:26 PM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, JULY 3, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, JULY 3, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

The main topics will be updates on our LEGAL BATTLE, the CARE TIERED DONOR PROGRAM with the BENEFACTOR HONOR ROLL and UPCOMING FUNDRAISERS.

 
Speaking of fundraisers, please buy your tickets now for

A Night of Fine Dining

Saturday, July 12, 5 to 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center

MARK YOUR CALENDAR NOW.
CLICK HERE FOR THE MENU AND POSTER.
Please HELP SELL TICKETS for this wonderful event.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Please remember that CARE has a NIGHT OF FINE DINING on Saturday July 12,2008---5-7:30p.m. at the Montville Community Center... Presale tickets ONLY!!! Please call 440-968-3917 or 440-636-5153 for tickets...

Diner Menu::
Chicken Marsala
Green Beans Almondine
Red Roasted Potatoes
Deluxe Salad
Roll & Butter
Dessert
Coffee or Soda

REMEMBER ONLY 200 tickets sold......better call before they are sold OUT!!!!

Edited by author 06-23-2008 11:25 PM
HERSHEY MONTESSORI STUDENTS POST VIDEO ESSAY,
“PEOPLE PLACE AND POWER”
on YouTube

Over the weekend, I learned that the students at the Hershey Montessori Farm School in Huntsburg have produced a video essay titled, “People Place and Power” that presents solid facts and learned opinions on the Geauga 138 kV Transmission Line Project. The students emphasize the biological, land use, and societal impacts of the project.

I don’t impress easily, but I was blown away by their essay. The students obviously understand the widespread, long term implications of the project, and express their understanding with clarity and precision. The images are visually stunning – not only is the message on target but the essay is beautiful to watch.

There is no way that I can sufficiently encourage everyone to watch this video essay. It’s on YouTube right now at “People Place and Power”. Please leave your feedback on YouTube or send it directly to the students. I’m certain that they would enjoy reading your comments.

You will not be disappointed by this video essay.

Visit CARE’s web site.

HEARING DATES ARE BEING SET

On Monday, June 23, 2008, a telephone status conference was held between the parties of record in the case and the administrative law judge, Janet K. Stoneking. During the conference, some key dates for hearings were established.

OPSB Staff report due - August 4, 2008.

Public hearings (Thompson and Huntsburg) - August 20-21, or two days during the week of August 26-28, 2008.

Adjudicatory hearing - September 2-5, and September 8, 2008 onward.

Judge Stoneking stated that these are the intended dates for the associated events. The public hearing dates are obviously subject to the availability of the facilities in Thompson and Huntsburg. The other dates have no specific contingencies attached. Nevertheless, an order has not been written that explicitly states that these are THE dates. When such an order is posted on the case docket, I’ll relay the information here at once.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Media Coverage Update - 36

Geauga County Maple Leaf, June 19, 2008

Battle over transmission line begins

.

Edited by author 06-20-2008 02:37 AM

Media Coverage Update - 35

The News-Herald, June 19, 2008

FirstEnergy passes on Chardon trail

.

Media Coverage Update - 34

Geauga County Maple Leaf, June 12, 2008

Council supports FirstEnergy power line project

.

CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, JUNE 5, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, JUNE 5, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Media Coverage Update - 33

Geauga County Maple Leaf, May 22, 2008

Council resolved to fight power line

.

Edited by author 05-23-2008 03:36 PM

Media Coverage Update - 32

Geauga County Maple Leaf, May 22, 2008

Park board: Keep power line off our trail

.

Media Coverage Update - 31

The News-Herald, May 15, 2008

Editorial: Talk about alternatives for Geauga power line

.

Media Coverage Update - 30

Geauga County Maple Leaf, May 15, 2008

A resounding "no" to power line

.

Media Coverage Update - 29

The News-Herald, May 10, 2008

Chardon City Council unites against power line

.

Edited by author 05-09-2008 02:08 AM

Media Coverage Update - 28

The News-Herald, May 1, 2008

Panel to walk the line

.

Media Coverage Update - 27

The Plain Dealer, May 1, 2008

Geauga bike path studied as route for possible power line

.

Media Coverage Update - 26

Farm and Dairy, April 21, 2008

FirstEnergy line location still up in the air

.

Media Coverage Update - 25

Geauga County Maple Leaf, May 8, 2008

Walk explores bike trail as power line route

.

Edited by author 05-08-2008 02:00 AM
PUBLIC HEARINGS HAVE BEEN POSTPONED!
The long awaited entry from The Ohio Power Siting Board administrative law judge Janet K. Stoneking has been submitted, which grants FE's motion for continuance of the public and adjudicatory hearings.

The entry of findings and orders has not been posted to the docket card, but a copy was faxed to CARE's legal team on Wednesday, May 7, 2008. You saw it first here! Although the entry does not specify when the hearings will be rescheduled, it is very likely that the public hearings will take place during the week of July 7, 2008, and the adjudicatory hearing will begin on July 17, 2007. These dates are based on the conference discussions referenced in the finding (3) of the entry.

Visit CARE’s web site.

CARE Italian Spaghetti Dinner is May 10 in Middlefield

The Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) organization will hold a spaghetti dinner Saturday evening. May 10, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Middlefield Fire Department. The meal will consist of all-you-can-eat spaghetti, meat balls included, garlic toast, tossed salad, coffee and dessert, and is priced at $7.00 adults, $4.00 K-6th, and free for pre-school children. All proceeds will benefit CARE's opposition to the construction of a new power line through Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg Townships. For any questions feel free to call Pat at 440-636-5153. CARE has a website at www.caregeauga.org where more information is available.

Visit CARE's web site
.

SPAGETTI Dinner at Middlefield Fire Hall
May 10, 2008 5:00-7:30 p.m.
Adults $7 Kids $4--12 & under
Sponsored by C.A.R.E. Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy

Edited by author 05-01-2008 05:04 PM

Media Coverage Update - 22

Geauga County Maple Leaf, April 24, 2008

Citizens group asks park district not to resist

.

Edited by author 04-30-2008 06:22 PM
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2008

FOR MORE INFORMATION
PAIGE HOSIER
440-286-9516 ext. 2018

GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT PARK BOARD MEETING: LOCATION CHANGE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THE GEAUGA PARK DISTRICT BOARD OF PARK COMMISSIONERS WILL HOLD THEIR MONTHLY BOARD MEETINGS ON THE SECOND TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH, UNLESS POSTED OTHERWISE.

MAY’S BOARD MEETING LOCATION HAS CHANGED. THE MEETING WILL TAKE PLACE:

TUESDAY, MAY 13
3:30 PM
BIG CREEK PARK
9160 ROBINSON ROAD, CHARDON 44024

For more information, please contact Paige Hosier at 440-286-9516 Ext. 2018 or phosier@geaugaparkdistrict.org.

Edited by author 04-24-2008 02:06 AM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, MAY 1, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, MAY 1, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

The president's report will bring everyone up to speed on the latest development on the legal front. The featured topic for this meeting will be a summary and wrap-up of Geauga Sportsman Day, CARE's largest fundraising event to date. If you attended Geauga Sportsman Day, you know what a great event it was. If you missed it, you missed a lot of fun!

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Edited by author 04-20-2008 05:32 PM

CARE Italian Spaghetti Dinners set for May 3 and 10 in Middlefield

The Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) organization will hold a spaghetti dinner Saturday evening. May 3, from 5 to 7:30 p.m. at the Middlefield Fire Department. The meal will consist of all-you-can-eat spaghetti, three meat balls included, garlic toast, tossed salad, coffee and dessert, and is priced at $7.00 adults, $4.00 K-6th, and free for pre-school children. All proceeds will benefit CARE's opposition to the construction of a new power line through Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg Townships. A second spaghetti dinner will be served the following Saturday, May 10, at the same location and time. For any questions feel free to call Pat at 440-636-5153. CARE has a website at www.caregeauga.org where more information is available.

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 04-21-2008 12:21 AM

BULLETIN: CARE's attorneys file motions for OPSB site inspection, and to have adjudicatory hearing moved from Columbus to Geauga County

Two new documents have been added to case(s): 07-0171-EL-BT

Link to document:
http://dis.puc.state.oh.us/TiffToPDf/A1001...D17B12056G03429.pdf

Summary: "...Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy ("CARE") hereby requests that the Ohio Power Siting Board, by and through the Administrative Law Judge and OPSB Staff, conduct a site inspection of: (1) the proposed project area, including the Cross Country and Clay Street Routes (identified in the Application as the Preferred and Alternate Routes, respectively); (2) State Route 11 and Mayfield Road; (3) the Rachel Modified Preferred Route, as identified in Ohio Power Siting Board in Case No. 95-0600-EL-BTX; and (4) the Pinegrove Substation in Chardon, Ohio.

Link to document:
http://dis.puc.state.oh.us/TiffToPDf/A1001...D17B12056E67872.pdf

Summary: "...Intervener Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy ("CARE") hereby requests that the Adjudicatory Hearing currently scheduled for May 21, 2008 (subject to Applicants' Motion to Continue) in Columbus be relocated to Geauga County.

(See the above links for the text of the Motions.)

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 04-15-2008 04:25 PM

BULLETIN: FirstEnergy requests a continuance until June

A new document has been added to case(s): 07-0171-EL-BT

Link to document:

http://dis.puc.state.oh.us/TiffToPDf/A1001...D15B41630H31326.pdf

Summary: "Applicants American Transmission Systems, Incorporated ("ATSI") and The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company ("CEI") hereby move for a continuance in this matter and request that the currently scheduled Public and Adjudicatory Hearings scheduled for May 12, 13, and 21,2008 be rescheduled at the earliest practical time in June 2008. A Memorandum in Support of this Motion for Continuance is attached."
(See the above link for the text of the Memorandum.)

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 04-09-2008 02:05 AM
CEI/RACHEL 135 kV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT APPLICATION NOW ON LINE

Nancy Kothera and the other township trustees saved a high quality paper copy of the CEI/Rachel Transmission Line Project, case number 95-0600-EL-BTX, submitted to the OPSB on November 28, 1995. She generously loaned this document for reference.

I have scanned the CEI/Rachel Transmission Line Project application and now have the complete text ON LINE. Unlike the docketing department scans, these are high resolution scans saved as OCR/text coded PDFs. They can be searched for keywords, and text may be copied and pasted. Some of the figures were too large for my scanner. As the oversize pages are scanned on a larger scanner, I will post them as well. The Part 1 through Part 7 files listed below are divided arbitrarily, to create reasonably sized files. The parts don't correspond to actual divisions in the application.

Click here to link to the list of CEI/Rachel Transmission Line Project application documents.

This application is extremely valuable reference material for building our case.

Visit CARE’s web site.

BULLETIN: CARE Response to first set of interrogatories is posted

A new document has been added to case(s): 07-0171-EL-BTX Link to document: http://dis.puc.state.oh.us/DocumentRecord....6-9be7-d0ac1412caa6 Summary: Responses and objections of Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy to first set of interrogatories and requests for production of documents of American Transmission Systems, Incorporated and The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company filed by J. Crocker. NOTICE: The transmission of this message may constitute service of the foregoing document upon the recipient pursuant to rules adopted by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio.

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 04-03-2008 12:48 AM

Media Coverage Update - 21

The Plain Dealer, March 28, 2008

Consumers' counsel calls for FirstEnergy investigation

Read the OCC brief (PDF file), especially see pages 41-77

.

CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, APRIL 3, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, APRIL 3, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning more about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

The featured speakers for this meeting will be Mr. Tom Lee and Ms. Julie Crocker, members of CARE's legal team. If you would like to meet the attorneys that are building a winning case on behalf of CARE, please attend this meeting.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Edited by author 03-21-2008 11:52 AM
NOTICE TO CARE MEMBERS AND OTHER INTERESTED CITIZENS

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO GIVE TESTIMONY AT OPSB HEARINGS
As most everyone knows, the hearings have been scheduled for The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, OPSB case 07-0171-EL-BTX. There are two types of hearings involved in this segment of the OPSB process, public hearings and an adjudicatory hearing.

• The Public Hearings are intended to allow the Administrative Law Judge to hear testimony from citizens. Witnesses at the public hearings need not be affected property owners. Anyone interesting in making his or her voice heard has the right to give testimony at the public hearings.
• The Adjudicatory Hearing is the evidentiary hearing intended for the parties in the case. (CARE's motion to intervene as a party in the case was recently granted.) At the Adjudicatory Hearing, parties, through their attorneys, present exhibits, call witnesses, cross examine the witnesses of other parties and submit briefs.

CARE is preparing to present an organized set of witnesses at the hearings, giving fine-tuned, high-impact testimony. CARE is looking for volunteers to be witnesses and present testimony at the Public Hearings and at the Adjudicatory Hearing.

There are two Public Hearings scheduled. The first is on Monday, May 12, 2008 beginning at 4:30 p.m., at Ledgemont Elementary-Middle School, 16200 Burrows Road, Thompson, Ohio, in the gymnasium. The second Public Hearing is the following day, Tuesday, May 13, 2008, beginning at 1:00 p.m. at the Huntsburg Town Hall, 16534 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg, Ohio, in the meeting room on the second floor. Each speaker will be limited in time to his/her presentation, probably 3-5 minutes each, and speakers will be allowed to present at only one of the hearings.

At the Public Hearings, CARE will want to articulate its position and the position of its members clearly and non-repetitively. Although exact methods to coordinate the presentations have not yet been decided, it is probable that, prior to the hearings, CARE may ask those who want to make a presentation to meet with CARE’s counsel, write out and rehearse their presentation and make their presentation in an order to be pre-determined.

The Adjudicatory Hearing is a formal evidentiary hearing to be held in Columbus, Ohio. It is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m. on May 21, 2008 at the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, 180 East Broad Street, 11th floor, Hearing Room F, Columbus, Ohio. This hearing is likely to continue for at least three days, and could continue for up to five or more days.
The CARE leadership, and CARE counsel will determine what witnesses will testify on behalf of CARE. Any witness selected will be required to:

1. Meet with CARE’s counsel,
2. Help prepare his or her testimony,
3. Rehearse presentation of his or her testimony,
4. Be identified as a potential witnesses in CARE's forthcoming discovery responses to First Energy,
5. Be available to be deposed by FirstEnergy’s legal team before the Adjudicatory Hearing,
6. Travel to Columbus for the Adjudicatory Hearing, to appear on a designated day to present testimony,
7. Be prepared to be cross examined by FirstEnergy’s legal team at the hearing.

This is the real thing. Our success in persuading the OPSB to require First Energy to use a pre-existing civil corridor to host its requested new transmission line depends on our ability to give cogent, persuasive, high-impact testimony at these hearings.

If you are interested in making a presentation at either of the Public Hearings, or if you want to be considered to be a witness on behalf of CARE at the Adjudicatory Hearing, please contact Jim Galm, jgalm@caregeauga.org, TEL (216) 346-0782, as soon as possible to volunteer. We are now 52 days from the first Public Hearing. There is no time to waste.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Media Coverage Update - 20

The Geauga Maple Leaf, March 20, 2008

Hearing locations changed in power line transmission case

.

Edited by author 03-15-2008 12:26 AM
OHIO POWER SITING BOARD NEWS
The Ohio Power Siting Board administrative law judge Janet K. Stoneking has submitted an entry of findings and orders associated with case 07-0171-EL-BTX, THE GEAUGA COUNTY 138KV TRANSMISSION LINE SUPPLY PROJECT on Friday, March 14, 2008, that COMPLETELY REVISES the locations, times and dates of the public hearings in the case.

These revisions are critical, as they represent significant changes from both the original location announced for the public hearing, and the initially changed location for the public hearing. The entry of findings and orders of Friday, March 14, 2008, orders that:

• There will be two separate public hearings.
• The first local public hearing will be held on May 12, 2008 at 4:30 p.m., at Ledgemont Elementary-Middle School, gymnasium, 16200 Burrows Road, Thompson, Ohio 44086.
• The second local public hearing will be held on May 13, 2008, at 1:00 p.m. at the Huntsburg Town Hall, second floor, 16534 Mayfield Road, Huntsburg, Ohio 44046.
• The date, time and location of the adjudicatory hearing has not changed. It remains scheduled for May 21, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. at the office of the Commission, 180 East Broad Street, 11th floor, hearing room F, Columbus, Ohio 43215.

Click here for an interactive map showing the Ledgemont Elementary-Middle School.

Click here for an interactive map showing the Huntsburg Town Hall.

Click Here for an interactive map showing the PUCO building. (The PUCO building is on the north east corner of Broad Street and N. 4th Street)

By relocating the public hearings to locations within the affected communities, Judge Stoneking has demonstrated an interest in insuring that the proceeding will be fair, impartial, and will not impose travel deterrents to any citizen whishing to exercise their right to give testimony.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Edited by author 03-14-2008 01:28 AM

Media Coverage Update - 19

The Geauga Maple Leaf, March 13, 2008

Citizens group allowed to participate in power line proceedings

.

Edited by author 03-14-2008 01:25 PM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
NOTICE TO MEMBERS

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) members and other individuals having questions regarding the process or procedures associated with The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project should refrain from directly contacting the administrative law judge assigned to case 07-0171-EL-BTX, Judge Janet Stoneking. The reason for this request is that Judge Stoneking will be the impartial arbiter of various issues and, like any other judge, frowns upon "ex parte" communications where one side contacts her without the knowledge of the other. FirstEnergy has agreed not to contact Judge Stoneking without our counsel being given the chance to participate, and we should do the same. It's in everyone's best interest to be as professional as possible and to follow this procedure.

CARE members with questions or concerns are welcome to send them to me, at jgalm@caregeauga.org. I will send the questions or concerns through CARE's counsel.

Thanks for your help and understanding.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Edited by author 03-07-2008 05:28 PM

BULLETIN: OPSB judge changes May 12 hearing location

OPSB Administrative Law Judge Janet Stoneking, by an order posted March 7, has changed the location of the previously scheduled May 12 public hearing on the Geauga Power Line case from Chardon to West Geauga in anticipation of expected heavy attendance. Judge Stoneking's order reads, in part:

"(1) By entry issued March 3, 2008, the Administrative Law Judge
directed the American Transmission Systems, Incorporated,
(ATSI) and The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company (CEI)
(collectively, the Companies) to issue public notices of the
application and the hearings, in accordance with Rule 4906-5-
08, Ohio Administrative Code (O.A.C.).

"(2) Subsequent to the entry, the Administrative Law Judge was
advised that the location selected for the May 12, 2008 local
public hearing would not accommodate the number of
interested persons likely to attend. Accordingly, the location
for the Monday, May 12, 2008 local public hearing has been
changed to address that concern. The local public hearing in
this matter will be held on Monday, May 12, 2008, at 4:30 p.m,,
at the West Geauga Middle School, Gymnasium, 8611 Cedar
Road, Chesterland, Ohio 44026. The adjudicatory hearing will
still commence on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., at
the offices of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, 180 East
Broad Street, 11* floor. Hearing Room F, Columbus, Ohio
43215-3793."

Link to the complete text of the order

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 03-04-2008 05:52 PM
OHIO POWER SITING BOARD NEWS
The Ohio Power Siting Board administrative law judge Janet K. Stoneking submitted an entry of findings and orders associated with case 07-0171-EL-BTX, THE GEAUGA COUNTY 138KV TRANSMISSION LINE SUPPLY PROJECT on March 3, 2008.

The orders in this entry include:

• CARE's petition for intervention is granted. 
• A local public hearing in this matter will be held on Monday, May 12, 2008, at 4:30 p.m., at the Geauga County Commissioners' Office, Building 8 - Conference Room, 470 Center Street, Chardon, Ohio 44024. The adjudicatory hearing will commence on Wednesday, May 21, 2008, at 10:00 a.m., at the offices of the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, 180 East Broad Street, 11th floor, Hearing Room F, Columbus, Ohio 43215-3793.

Click Here for a map showing the Geauga County Commissioners' Office.

Click Here for a map showing the PUCO building. (The PUCO building is on the north east corner of Broad Street and N. 4th Street)

Visit CARE’s web site.

My e-mail address is treefarmerdan@windstream.net Thanks Dan Garey
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Edited by author 03-02-2008 11:47 PM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, MARCH 6, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, MARCH 6, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

IF YOU HAVE BEEN ENCOURAGED BY FIRSTENERGY TO SIGN A CONTRACT:THE FIRSTENERGY RIGHT-OF-WAY OPTION CONTRACT SEVERELY LIMITS YOUR RIGHTS TO YOUR PROPERTY. LEARN WHY FIRST ENERGY IS USING SCARE TACTICS, THREATENING TO USE "EMINENT DOMAIN" IF LAND OWNERS DO NOT NEGOTIATE. OUR STRENGTH COMES FROM WORKING TOGETHER TO FIGHT FIRSTENERGY.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Visit CARE’s web site.

Edited by author 02-23-2008 05:22 PM
I am considering a trip to Columbus, OH, to attend the Ohio Power Siting Board meeting on Monday, March 3, 2008, at 3:30 PM. The meeting will be held at 180 East Broad Street, 11th Floor, Room E, Columbus, OH.

As reported in message /m128, the agenda for the meeting does not include The Geauga County -138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. However, I believe that it is worth the trip to see the people and observe an OPSB meeting in progress. This will help with preparations for CARE’s turn on the agenda.

If anyone else is interested in attending this meeting, please let me know, at jgalm@caregeauga.org.

Visit CARE's web site.

Media Coverage Update - 18

The News-Herald, February 23, 2008

A real power struggle

Property owners voice concern, displeasure over FirstEnergy transmission line plans

.

Edited by author 02-23-2008 01:54 AM

CARE pancake breakfast set for March 16

A pancake breakfast will be served Sunday, March 16, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Hershey Montessori School Huntsburg Campus, 11530 Madison Road, Huntsburg. The proceeds will help feed CARE's treasury.

Visit CARE's web site
.

BULLETIN: OPSB agenda posted

The OPSB has posted the agenda for its March 3 meeting. The proposed Geauga power line case is not on it.

Link to the OPSB agenda

Visit CARE's web site
.

Edited by author 02-15-2008 10:43 PM
REPORT FROM FARM BUREAU MEETING OF FEBRUARY 15, 2008.

The Ohio Farm Bureau Federation held a meeting on Friday, February 15, 2008 in Middlefield, OH. The main agenda item was a presentation and debate by Ohio State Senator Tim Grendell and Ohio Representative Matt Dolan regarding the The Great Lakes Water Resources Compact. It was also possible that The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project would be on the meeting agenda.

There was a significant contingent of CARE members, CARE committee members, and all four CARE officers in attendance.

We learned a great deal about The Great Lakes Water Resources Compact from Senator Grendell and Representative Dolan. The spirited debate highlighted the importance of understanding and probing the details of complicated contracts such as The Great Lakes Water Resources Compact.

With respect to The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, the meeting was not productive. Many attendees, including Representative Dolan, left before the transmission line project was brought before the assembly. Senator Grendell gave a short update, and voiced his frustration with the lack of progress on the part of the Ohio Power Siting Board in initiating the next phase of the application review process.

Edited by author 02-15-2008 06:21 PM

Media Coverage Update - 17

The Geauga Maple Leaf, February 14, 2008

CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY

Interest group sparks key role in power line battle

.

Edited by author 02-06-2008 02:10 AM
REVISED FIRST ENERGY APPLICATION ON LINE

On January 2, 2008, the The Ohio Power Siting Board posted a revised version of FirstEnergy's application on the docket card for case 07-0171-EL-BTX. The differences between the original and Revision 1 applications are detailed in pages 3 through 9 of volume 1 part 1. I have downloaded all 1304 pages and posted them at www.huntsburg.org in a special section.

Click here to go directly to the list of document links. Please feel free to download, print and distribute to anyone interested. We have the right to distribute this document since it is a matter of public record.

As with the original application, it is divided into seven separate files.

Revision 1 Volume 1 Part 1
Revision 1 Volume 1 Part 2
Revision 1 Volume 2 Part 1
Revision 1 Volume 2 Part 2
Revision 1 Volume 2 Part 3
Revision 1 Volume 2 Part 4
Revision 1 Volume 2 Part 5

Edited by author 02-10-2008 01:04 AM

CARE to sponsor Lenten fish fry dinners

The Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) organization will hold a series of five Friday fish fries starting Friday, Feb. 22, and continuing each week through Friday, Mar. 21, from 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Montville Community Center on Rt. 528, just south of US Rt. 6, in Montville. The all-you-can-eat dinner includes free dessert. For any questions feel free to call Pat at 440-636-5153. CARE has a website at www.caregeauga.org where more information is available.

Link to a PDF copy of the poster

Visit CARE's web site
.

The Farm Bureau is having a meeting on Feb. 15th at 1:30 at Mary Yoder's in Middlefield. They are going to try and get Gov't officals to come. Grendell and Dolan are to be there to talk about the Great Lakes Waterways. It is open to the public. THey are asking for reservations. THey can be made by calling 1-800-410-4613. Please try and attend..,.Pat Jonath

Edited by author 02-04-2008 12:50 AM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
REGULAR MEETING TO BE HELD ON THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2008 AT 7:30 PM
MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) will hold its next regular meeting on Thursday, February 7, 2008, at 7:30 PM at the Montville Community Center. The Montville Community Center is located at 9755 Madison Road, Montville, Ohio 44064, just south of US-6. Click here for a map.

Everyone interested in learning about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project or interested in learning about or supporting CARE is invited to attend.

CLAY STREET RESIDENTS:THE ROUTE FOR THE TRANSMISSION LINE HAS NOT BEEN SELECTED. PROPERTIES ON CLAY STREET ARE IN AS MUCH DANGER AS THOSE ON 528. CARE EXISTS FOR EVERYONE ON BOTH ROUTES. OUR STRENGTH COMES FROM WORKING TOGETHER TO FIGHT BOTH ROUTES.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in learning about, supporting or joining CARE.

Edited by author 02-04-2008 12:06 AM
OHIO POWER SITING BOARD NEWS

The Ohio Power Siting Board has changed the date of the next meeting on their public calendar. The next OPSB meeting is now scheduled to take place on Monday, March 3, 2008, at 3:30 PM. The meeting will be held at 180 East Broad Street, 11th Floor, Room E, Columbus, OH. An agenda for the meeting has not been published.

You have my old e-mail address, my new one is treefarmerdan@windstream.net Thanks Dan Garey
< replied-to message removed by QT >

Dear 528_Resident,

Please send me your email address, and I will be glad to answer your question off-line.

Thank you for your patience.

Jim Galm
President, CARE
jgalm@caregeauga.org
www.caregeauga.org

On 1/15/08 it was asked if you could post minutes of Care meetings and I was wondering the same, for I was not able to attend the meetings due to scheduling conflicts and would like to be updated.

Edited by author 01-24-2008 09:22 PM
OHIO POWER SITING BOARD NEWS

The Ohio Power Siting Board has posted their next meeting on their public calendar. The next OPSB meeting will take place on Monday, February 25, 2008, at 3:30 PM. The meeting will be held at 180 East Broad Street, 11th Floor, Room E, Columbus, OH. An agenda for the meeting has not been published.

CARE will be having fish fries at Montville Community Center
February 22,2008
February 29,2008
March 7,2008
March 14,2008
March21,2008
They will be held from 5:00pm to 7:30 pm.
Hope that everyone can make it and support CARE. WHere else can you get ALL the fish you can eat and free dessert!!!!
If you have any questions fell free to call me at 440-636-5153.
HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE FRIES>>>>>>>>>>>>>

I was wondering if it is possible to post the minutes or a discussion summary of the meetings held by CARE regarding the transmission lines? I have been unable to attend the last two meetings and I am sure I am not alone in wondering what I missed.

Media Coverage Update - 16

The Star Beacon, January 3, 2008
FirstEnergy files for line within Ashtabula, Geauga

.

Edited by author 01-05-2008 11:00 PM

Media Coverage Update - 15

TradingMarkets.com, January 4, 2008
FirstEnergy Corp. applies to build power line between two Ohio towns

.

Edited by author 01-05-2008 05:40 PM

FirstEnergy files formal proposal;
OPSB names judge to conduct hearings

FirstEnergy Corp., parent company of Ohio Edison, The Illuminating Company, Toledo Edison, Penn Power, Penelec, Met-Ed, and Jersey Central Power & Light, issued a news release on January 3, 2008 titled "FirstEnergy Companies File Application For Geauga County Transmission Line." The News-Herald, on January 4, 2008 published an article written by Brandon C. Baker which is essentially a rewrite of FirstEnergy's release with a small amount of additional information. The copyrighted N-H story is not available on the Web and cannot be linked to the Roundtable, however a PDF file containing the news release upon which it was based can be read by clicking the link below:

Link to a PDF copy of the FirstEnergy news release

The N-H reports that Ms. Janet Stoneking, identified as a Public Utilities Commission of Ohio attorney examiner, has been named by the Ohio Power Siting Board as the administrative law judge to conduct hearings on the proposal. The Roundtable will post the dates and locations of these hearings as soon as the information is available.
.

Edited by author 01-02-2008 12:56 AM

Media Coverage Update - 14

The Plain Dealer, December 18, 2007
Hershey Montessori Farm school students document power lines flap

The Plain Dealer, January 1, 2008
Students take charge of their community's future

.

Edited by author 12-27-2007 04:15 PM

Media Coverage Update - 13

Geauga County Maple Leaf, December 27, 2007
HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP
Trustees tell siting board
'no' to power line routes

.

Edited by author 12-19-2007 01:45 AM

Troy Twp. Trustees ask OPSB to use Route 11 corridor

Link to a PDF copy of the OPSB letter
.

Edited by author 12-19-2007 01:12 AM

Media Coverage Update - 12

The Plain Dealer, December 18, 2007
Hershey Montessori Farm school students document power lines flap

.

Have any of you read the letter posted today by the PUCO? It was written by Mike at Brakey Consulting Co. Maybe he needs a few emails? mike@brakeyconsulting.com
 his phone number is (216)751-1758. his web site is http://www.brakeyconsulting.com/
Please let your voice be heard.

Edited by author 12-08-2007 03:50 AM

Media Coverage Update - 11

The Geauga Maple Leaf, December 6, 2007

MONTVILLE TOWNSHIP
Energy advocacy group meets tonight in Montville

HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIP
Montessori students teach adults about power

.

Edited by author 12-03-2007 03:17 PM
On November 28, 2007, Alan Schiber, chairman of The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio and The Ohio Power Siting Board wrote a letter to FirstEnergy's attorney, Mr. Michael Beiting, stating that the preliminary application for The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project has been found to comply with all of the rules and requirements for an application. The OPSB is now preparing to begin the process of evaluating the project.

Looking at the flowchart of the power siting process, we have now moved from the "60 Day Staff Compliance Review" to the stage of "Letter of Completeness and Proof of Service". This is an important step in the process, but definitely not one to be taken as any kind of defeat. FE has made many similar applications that have been found to comply with the rules and requirements for an application. There's no reason to expect that this application would not comply with the rules as well.

The important take-away is that the next review process will be the actual review of the merits of the project. It will be our chance to make our case at public hearings. Stand by for more information on the next steps.

Edited by author 11-26-2007 09:17 AM
There will be a MEETING OF CARE (Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy) on December 6,2007 at 7:30p.m. at the Montville Community Center. Please plan to attend.

Links to newspapers:
Geauga Maple Leaf email address is info@geaugamapleleaf.com
Send to the attn of editor John Karlovec
- the deadline for this paper is 2pm Tuesday fo the Thursday edition.
The last columinst that wrote and article on this proposed line was Ann Wishert. I have her cell number and will call her tomorrow and make her aware of the meeting Friday.

Edited by author 11-13-2007 11:43 PM
CITIZENS ADVOCATING RESPONSIBLE ENERGY
CARE
FIRST MEETING TO BE HELD ON FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 16, 2007 AT 7:30 PM
AT THE MONTVILLE COMMUNITY CENTER

The Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy (CARE) is an organization of citizens opposed to The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project as it has been proposed by FirstEnergy.

Specifically, it shall be the purpose of CARE to

(1) Oppose the construction of a new transmission line utility corridor through Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg townships in the interest of preservation and conservation,
(2) Advocate the use of a pre-existing civil corridor for a new transmission line, such that neither the over-land nor the Clay Street routes, as applied for by FirstEnergy, are constructed,
(3) Create a common, unified voice through which CARE members may communicate with FirstEnergy, The Ohio Power Siting Board, the legislature and the courts,
(4) Pool financial resources and raise money from sources outside of CARE to fund legal representation and other expenses,
(5) Ultimately secure a resolution to FirstEnergy’s needs that is satisfactory to the CARE membership.

It is important to realize that CARE does not promote the use of one of the two proposed routes (the over-land or the Clay Street) over the other. Both routes proposed in FirstEnergy's application involve creating a new utility corridor through farms, neighborhoods, virgin woods, and residential properties. These are not acceptable places to create a new utility corridor, therefore CARE opposes the entire proposed project.

Opposing the project without offering alternatives is not productive, therefore CARE advocates the use of pre-existing civil corridors as sites for a new transmission line. Fortunately, there are pre-existing corridors that are suitable for a new transmission line. CARE will work to persuade the Ohio Power Siting Board that FirstEnergy should be using the available pre-existing civil corridors.

The CARE constitution and bylaws available on-line for review.

Please spread the word to everyone you know that might be interested in joining CARE. The siting process is moving forward as we speak. CARE is the next phase in our effort to steer the siting process toward an end that does not ruin our farms, homes, properties and lifestyles.

Well stated, Marsha.

I contacted Ann Wishart on Monday, to insure that an announcement will be in the Thursday Maple Leaf. The News Herald still needs to be contacted, as does the Plain Dealer Lake/Geauga bureau.

Later this evening, I will put an announcement on the www.huntsburg.org web site. I have written a constitution and set of bylaws for CARE, which are posted on the web site for everyone to preview.

I hope to see a large number of interested individuals at the meeting, and hope that many people will choose to join CARE.

TONIGHT I SPOKE WITH ALEXA HOBART, TOWNSHIP TRUSTEE FOR MONTVILLE TWP. WHO ADVISED OF ME FRIDAY NIGHT'S MEETING AT THE COMMUNITY CENTER. I TOLD HER I WOULD POST IT ON THIS LINK AND SEE THAT THIS HAS ALREADY BEEN DONE. HOWEVER I WOULD LIKE TO ENCOURAGE CITIZENS OF ALL THE TOWNSHIPS TO ATTEND, REGARDLESS OF WHERE YOU LIVE. THE LINE NO LONGER WILL GO THRU MY PROPERTY BUT IT WILL GO THRU MY TOWN AND MY COMMUNITY - THAT'S REASON ENOUGH TO ATTEND AND BE INVOLVED! I HOPE TO SEE YOU THERE AND ALSO REQUEST YOU LET YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS KNOW WHAT IS HAPPENING.
HAS ANYONE CONTACTED THE NEWS HERALD OR THE MAPLE LEAF?? IT IS IMPORTANT THAT WE RECEIVE PRESS ON THIS. ELECTED OFFICIALS, CONCERNED CITIZENS AND OTHERS READ THE PAPER!! I WILL MAKE ATTEMPTS IN THAT REGARD.

Edited by author 11-12-2007 10:11 PM
Tiffani Cappello asks a very good question.

The plan is for CARE to be chartered to oppose the corridor described in CEI’s application, and encourage the use of a pre-existing civil corridor for the transmission line. State Route 11 and the Rachel Route/bike path are both pre-existing civil corridors. Both the Preferred Route (over-land/528) and the Alternate Route (Clay Street) described in the application are two routes within the same unacceptable corridor, so by definition, CARE is opposed to both the over-land/528 and the Clay Street routes.

The central problem with the corridor described in the application is that it is blasted through neighborhoods, farms, and other places where no corridor exists, i.e., CEI wants to make a new corridor just for their transmission line. That is not acceptable, and CARE will do what it takes to keep that new corridor from happening.

Does this existing corridor include Clay St??? Since Clay St. is a largely residential street, there are significant risks to human health. This is not an exceptional option either. Will someone please respond and tell me what existing corridors are being recommended?

From the onset of this issue with the proposed power line, we all agreed to stand together against this project on either route. I honestly thought the 528 route was a viable option until I attended that first meeting and saw firsthand how the residents of 528 would be affected by the line. I saw that there were a lot more residents who would face health risks and property damage than I ever imagined. When I heard the line was not going down Clay, I still showed up in opposition to the line at the next meeting held at Montville town hall.

Also, is there a way to influence policy to remove the obstacles to St Rt 11 being a viable option?

There will be a CARE (Citizens Advocating Responsible Energy) on Friday,November 16, 2007 at 7:30, at the Montville Community Center.

Everyone interested in helping with the effort to persuade the Ohio Power Siting Board to move the transmission line to a pre-existing corridor is encoutaged to attend.

Hope to see everyone there.
Pat Jonath

On November 8, 2007, The Ohio Power Siting Board announced that it will be holding a meeting on Monday, November 26, 2007, at 3:30 PM.

I have the meeting agenda on line, click here to read it. There is nothing about The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project on the agenda.

Edited by author 11-08-2007 05:03 PM
The November 8, 2007 edition of the News Herald newspaper ran a letter to the editor written by Pat and Bill Jonath. It's a great letter; I wish more affected families wrote letters to the newspapers.

Please read Pat and Bill's letter. It may give you ideas for a "Letter to the Editor" of your own.

THere is an interesting article on wind turbines wanting to be built in Geauga Co. I don't know if it is possible to have it posted or not?

Thanks for the effort Pat. I contacted the Ohio Consumers Council in May 2007 regarding this project. I was informed that they are only involved in service and rate issues, had no authority nor prseeure to bear on this issue. We shall all keep trying.

We just received a letter from Lee Fisher saying thank you for your correspondence regarding the transmission line. He suggested that we also write to Ohio Consumers' Counsel, the residential utility consumer advocate.

Ohio Consumers' Counsel
10 West Broad Street
Suite 1800
Columbus, Ohio 43215-3485
1-877-742-5622

Edited by author 10-28-2007 02:46 AM
George Davet of Thompson Township brought an interesting bit of information to my attention. He emphasized the importance of making certain that every property owner on any route brings to the attention of The Ohio Power Siting Board that if The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project constructed, it will drastically reduce the value of their property. The reason for this is that in the event of a doomsday scenario where FirstEnergy is granted their certificate of environmental compatibility and public need for the project as proposed, FirstEnergy will need to take property by eminent domain.

In the lawsuits that will follow as we fight the taking of our property by eminent domain, everyone will need to demonstrate that they warned FirstEnergy and OPSB that their land value would be slashed by the transmission line, before the certificate was granted. I'm neither an attorney nor a judge, but this information makes intrinsic sense to me. This is one more good reason to write to the OPSB to make your voice heard.

Click here for tips on writing an effective letter and the mailing addresses for the members of the OPSB.

Thanks George.

Edited by author 10-28-2007 02:25 AM
The Geauga County Maple Leaf news paper has published a very accurate and detailed news article on the proceedings of the Huntsburg Township Board of Trustees' meeting on Tuesday, October 16, 2007.

Another excellent news item written by journalist Ann Wishart, it includes the fact that the Huntsburg Board of Township Trustees have created a letter to the OPSB that correctly reflects the positions of their constituents. Click here to read the letter from the Huntsburg Board of Township Trustees to the OPSB

I am very satisfied with the letter that the Huntsburg Board of Township Trustees have written to the OPSB. They have articulated the facts of the situation and accurately represented the positions of their constituents. Pete, Clark and Nancy have done an good job of transmitting the opinion of their constituents to the OPSB. Please let them know that you appreciate their work and that their continued support of relocating the proposed transmission line to an existing civil corridor represents your preferred solution to FirstEnergy's electrical power delivery problems.

Media Coverage Update - 10

The Geauga Maple Leaf, October 25, 2007

Huntsburg Township
Trustees to be part of letter writing campaign

.

Posted at the request of Nancy Saunders, Fiscal Officer, Huntsburg Township
Huntsburg Trustees' Letter of 10-23-2007 to the Ohio Power Siting Board et al

.

THere is another article in the Maple Leaf. Thanks Ann.
Pat

Edited by author 10-24-2007 08:47 AM
Thank-you Jim for posting the "Right of Way." Please talk to your neighbors and friends about this. It is very one-sided, for First Energy. The amount of money that they offer you is pennies compared to the damage that they would do. It is extremely important that you add certain clauses, that were pointed out at a Farm Bureau meeting, so PLEASE contact an attorney. This contract is in effect for ever, not just your life time. PLEASE URGE FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS NOT TO SIGN IT.
Thank-you
Pat Jonath

Edited by author 10-24-2007 04:40 PM
On Tuesday, October 22, 2007, Mr. David Lawrence visited some residents along the over-land route. His purpose was to distribute a "Right of Way Option" contract and encourage land owners to sign the contract. Pat Jonath snagged a copy of this contract. I removed the names and parcel information and have posted it here.

A right of way option means that FirstEnergy wants to "lock in" their ability to purchase a right of way through property at some later time, for a pre-determined price. When FirstEnergy buys a right of way option, FirstEnergy gives the land owner a sum of money for the option of buying a right of way at some date in the future. The option expires in two years. If FirstEnergy exercises its option within two years, it gives the land owner another sum of money and the land owner grants FirstEnergy a right of way through their property.

This is an extremely bad contract from the land owner's point of view. It is an absolutely one-sided contract that gives FirstEnergy free reign and gives the land owner almost nothing. Please don't take my word for it -- have any attorney read this contract and give their opinion. Here are two general rules that apply whenever Mr. Lawrence or anyone else brings you a contract and encourages you to sign it.

1. Absolutely, positively never, ever sign any contract without having it examined by an attorney that you pay for their services. Free legal advice is worth every cent.
2. Remember that if someone encourages you to sign a contract, it must benefit them more than it benefits you. The more they want you to sign, the more you probably stand to lose.

On Saturday, October 20th, Congressman LaTourette hosted a Mobile Office Day at the Geauga County Public Library. I spoke with him about the proposed power line and he indicated that he had been in close contact with the township trustees in the area and was presenting our objections and alternate routes to the Ohio Power Siting Board in the near future. He indicated that he would continue to work on our interests in this matter. I thanked him for any and all support he could lend to us.
We need to keep on top of every resourse we have as time is marching on!

Media Coverage Update - 9

The News-Herald, Saturday, October 20, 2007
Circuit breaker blamed for outage

.

Edited by author 10-24-2007 02:36 AM
The October 20, 2007 edition of the News Herald newspaper contained an article titled, "Breaker gets blame for outage around Geauga" by reporter Diane Ryder. Her basic coverage of the facts of the incident is weak.  She describes the problem as a "blown circuit breaker" that "gave way shortly after 2 p.m." She does not make the important distinction as to whether the circuit breaker tripped open due to an over current condition, or if the circuit breaker malfunctioned due to age or lack of maintenance and opened the circuit for no good reason. Since the event occurred on a day with mild temperatures and no thunderstorms, hence non-extreme electrical consumption for air conditioning, one would suspect that the circuit breaker opened due to malfunction, age or lack of maintenance, rather than an over current condition.

Diane then proceeds to assume that the circuit breaker opened due to an over current condition and allows FirstEnergy Area Manager for Geauga County Mia Moore imply that The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project would have prevented the tripped circuit breaker. Mia Moore's assertion may or may not be true, but it's being presented as true without any factual basis. Diane Ryder should not be making assumptions that lead to reporting questionable information.

Edited by author 10-19-2007 06:52 PM
The Farm and Dairy On-Line Edition for 10/18/2007 has a front page article on The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, written by journalist Ann Wishart. It’s another excellent article that helps bring the impact of the project on farmers and property owners to the front stage.

Click here to read the on-line article.

Read Geauga link #72 the article from the Maple Leaf. It tells about the last meeting with Senator Grendell. He is still working with us on different issues it is a long and hard process.

Does anyone know where Tim Grendell stands in this? He was going to represent the county residents as legal council and we haven't heard boo from the man nor any State Representatives for that matter. He made the statement that he was only able to opose one of the two options of where the power lines should go and he wrote the letter stating it shouldn't go down Clay, nothing for the 528 Residents other than,that it should go east and unfortunatly 528 appears to be east, this is the only support we have seen. That's not saying much if you reside on 528! Where is the support for the 528 Residents?

Edited by author 10-21-2007 02:31 PM

Media Coverage Update - 8

The Geauga Maple Leaf, October 11, 2007

FirstEnergy picks Route 528 corridor for power line
Residents vow to fight

.

A new article in the Maple Leaf on the transmission line. Thanks Ann Wishart for all your coverage.

Edited by author 10-10-2007 05:18 PM

Media Coverage Update - 7

The News-Herald, October 10, 2007

FirstEnergy picks state Route 528 for power line
Company files proposal with PUCO, lists route along Clay Street as alternate

.

THe News Hearld has a front page article on First Energy. First Energy Corp. picks state Route 528 for power line. " THis will not only help the people there in Geauga County. but in the whole service area. It will make the grid more reboust." Mark Durbin,First Energy spokesman
  Thanks to Alexa Holbert for telling our side of the story. Very good job Alexa. Now I want to know when they are going to cover what is really going on to the poor people along the line!!!!! The Maple Leaf is suppose to be covering a story this week. Thanks again Alexa.

Edited by author 10-01-2007 02:36 PM
I have the entire application downloaded and on-line at www.huntsburg.org in a special section.

Click here to go directly to the list of document links. Please feel free to download, print and distribute to anyone interested. We have the right to distribute this document since it is a matter of public record.

There are a total of 1306 pages in the application, filed as seven separate documents.

Volume 1 Part 1
Volume 1 Part 2
Volume 2 Part 1
Volume 2 Part 2
Volume 2 Part 3
Volume 2 Part 4
Volume 2 Part 5

The web site has some additional information on the part of the application that is being kept secret by virtue of a motion for protective order filed by FirstEnergy.

Edited by author 10-01-2007 12:47 PM
On Friday, September 28, 2007, FirstEnergy filed its application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need with the Ohio Power Siting Board, titled "The Application of American Transmission Systems Incorporated and The Cleveland Electric Illuminating Company for a Certificate of Environmental Compatibility and Public Need for the Construction of the Geauga County 138 KV Transmission Line Supply Project
Case No. 07-01 71 -EL-BTX."

The application parts were posted on the OPSB web site starting at 9:30 AM today, and finished at 11:30 AM today. I am in the process of downloading the entire document and will have it on line as soon as the download is complete.

The clock started last Friday.

Edited by author 09-29-2007 03:22 PM

Agricultural Districts

Jim Galm, in his post (/m60), par. 3, and his post (/m69), par. 7, points out the value of having your land in an Agricultural District when it may become the target of a power line right of way. While our land is not so enrolled at present, we plan to take that step immediately.

For any others who may wish to follow this strategy, here is a link to a fact sheet containing full information about Ohio Agricultural Districts:

Agricultural Districts in Ohio - OSU Ext. Ohioline Fact Sheet

and another to a PDF file containing the necessary application form together with instructions for completing it:

APPLICATION FOR PLACEMENT OF FARMLAND
IN AN AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT (R.C. SECTION 929.02)

.

Edited by author 09-29-2007 12:23 AM

Media Coverage Update - 6

Geauga County Maple Leaf, September 28, 2007

Grendell urges residents to act now on power lines

State senator prepared to fight alongside residents

.

Edited by author 09-27-2007 08:00 PM
At Senator Grendell’s meeting on Monday, September 24, 2007, Senator Grendell reported that FirstEnergy had stated to him that they were planning to submit the draft application to the Ohio Power Siting Board on Wednesday, September 26.

As of the end of the day Thursday, September 27, 2007, there was no sign of the application being posted on the OPSB case record web page for our case, 07-0171-EL-BTX.

The instant that I see something posted related to the application, I will put a message here and at www.huntsburg.org/firstenergy.

Edited by author 09-21-2007 09:36 PM
I had a very interesting conversation with Mr. George Davet today, regarding some information that he has gathered from many telephone conversations with a variety of individuals associated with transmission line projects and public utilities. George Davet, the owner of a beautiful 100+ year old farm that would be devastated by the proposed over-land route, is one of the valuable "behind the scenes" people that are always reading, calling, writing and trying to nudge this process toward a favorable outcome. George and I frequently exchange views and ideas on the transmission line project.

George shared three of the most viable aspects of the siting process that are available for us to utilize, and have been utilized most effectively in the past.

1. Environmental and wetlands impact from the proposed transmission line corridor,

 
2. Viability of agricultural business and impact thereupon in view of the proposed transmission line corridor,

 
3. The possibility of local generation of electrical energy at the "point of use", i.e., near the businesses that are having the most problems due to the poor power quality currently provided by FirstEnergy.

I believe that George is on the mark with these key issues. There are eight specific criteria that are spelled out in the Ohio Revised Code that the OPSB must find and determine before granting a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need. They are as follows:

(1) The basis of the need for the facility if the facility is an electric transmission line or gas or natural gas transmission line;

(2) The nature of the probable environmental impact;

(3) That the facility represents the minimum adverse environmental impact, considering the state of available technology and the nature and economics of the various alternatives, and other pertinent considerations;

(4) In the case of an electric transmission line or generating facility, that the facility is consistent with regional plans for expansion of the electric power grid of the electric systems serving this state and interconnected utility systems and that the facility will serve the interests of electric system economy and reliability;

(5) That the facility will comply with Chapters 3704., 3734., and 6111. of the Revised Code and all rules and standards adopted under those chapters and under sections 1501.33, 1501.34, and 4561.32 of the Revised Code. In determining whether the facility will comply with all rules and standards adopted under section 4561.32 of the Revised Code, the board shall consult with the office of aviation of the division of multi-modal planning and programs of the department of transportation under section 4561.341 of the Revised Code.

(6) That the facility will serve the public interest, convenience, and necessity;

(7) In addition to the provisions contained in divisions (A)(1) to (6) of this section and rules adopted under those divisions, what its impact will be on the viability as agricultural land of any land in an existing agricultural district established under Chapter 929. of the Revised Code that is located within the site and alternative site of the proposed major utility facility. Rules adopted to evaluate impact under division (A)(7) of this section shall not require the compilation, creation, submission, or production of any information, document, or other data pertaining to land not located within the site and alternative site.

(8) That the facility incorporates maximum feasible water conservation practices as determined by the board, considering available technology and the nature and economics of the various alternatives.

George's point #1 links to Ohio Revised Code 4906.10 (A) 2 and 4906.10 (A) 3. His point #2 links to Ohio Revised Code 4906.10 (A) 7. George's point #3, regarding local generation of energy, is viable and should be considered. I will try to locate some references where businesses and large users of electrical power have saved money by using their own generators to supplement their usage from the public utility system in times of high demand in order to secure more favorable rate structures from the utility.

Thanks for the information, George!

Folks our children will be the ones to bear the longterm consequences of this line. A fivefold increase in cancer risk is unacceptable. These lines should NEVER be placed withing 300m of homes.

Residential exposure to electric power transmission lines and risk of lymphoproliferative and myeloproliferative disorders: a case-control study.
Lowenthal RM, Tuck DM, Bray IC.

School of Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia.

BACKGROUND: Studies have shown an association between electromagnetic fields and childhood leukaemia. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an increased risk of lymphoproliferative disorders (LPD) or myeloproliferative disorders (MPD) associated with residence < or =300 m from high-voltage power lines. METHODS: Case-control study of 854 patients diagnosed with LPD or MPD (including leukaemia, lymphoma and related conditions) aged 0-94 years comprising all cases diagnosed in Tasmania between 1972 and 1980. Controls were individually matched for sex and approximate age at the time of diagnosis. RESULTS: Compared with those who had always lived >300 m from a power line, those who had ever lived within 50 m had an odds ratio (OR) of 2.06 (95% confidence interval 0.87-4.91) for developing LPD or MPD (based on 768 adult case-control pairs); those who had lived between 50 and 300 m had an OR of 1.30 (0.88-1.91). Adults who had lived within 300 m of a power line during the first 15 years of life had a threefold increase in risk (OR 3.23; 1.26-8.29); those who had lived within the same distance aged 0-5 years had a fivefold increase in risk (OR 4.74; 0.98-22.9). These associations were strengthened when analyses were repeated for 201 pairs with entirely Tasmanian residential histories. CONCLUSION: Although recognizing that this study has limitations, the results raise the possibility that prolonged residence close to high-voltage power lines, especially early in life, may increase the risk of the development of MPD and LPD later.

PMID: 17543004 [PubMed - in process]

On Tuesday, September 18, 2007, I had a telephone conversation with Mr. Ted Krauss. Ted is a Senior Engineer with American Transmission Systems, Inc., the transmission line business unit of FirstEnergy. Ted is one of the principle engineers and designers of The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project.

Ted and I discussed various topics about the technical and regulatory processes involved with the project. I was able to ask Ted a few specific questions, whose answers might be of interest to others. It's important to realize and understand that our conversation was not meant to reflect official statements on the part of FirstEnergy. These are simply paraphrased notes from our informal conversation, as accurate as my memory allows. If there's an error in these notes, it's my fault -- not Ted's or FirstEnergy's.

1. I asked Ted about using the SR-11 corridor, and specifically why it scored so poorly in the route planning process. He said that SR-11 represented a much longer transmission line, that would affect many more properties than either of the proposed routes. He also said that the substation location for an SR-11 transmission line would likely be in the Orwell area, which is not the ideal location. I emphasized that adding an extra fifteen to thirty feet to an existing 200 foot highway is a completely different kind of effect on a property than a sixty foot clear cut corridor with an access road. Ted's experience was that land owners along a highway become equally upset at the prospect of losing land adjacent to an existing highway fence as do land owners faced with having new corridors cut. I don't find that result intuitively reasonable or sensible, however I do not have facts or sufficient experience in these matters to challenge Ted's answer.
2. We talked about the possibility of making changes to the proposed routes before FirstEnergy made its application to The Ohio Power Siting Board. We agreed that once the application was made to the OPSB, the stakes were much higher and changes to the routes became more of a burden. Ted said that both routes have been modified since the original design, and that the revised routes were part of the draft application that is being prepared. I asked if I could see the revised routes, but Ted said that I could not because they were part of a draft, rather than official, application. Ted emphasized the fact that the process by which the OPSB examines routes is a well defined legal process that includes opportunities for everyone involved to provide input and give testimony to the board. Ted indicated that FirstEnergy was planning to make its application to the OPSB within the next two to three weeks.
3. I asked Ted why there were representatives from the OPSB walking the proposed routes now, before the application has even been made to the OPSB. Ted said that he has been communicating with the OPSB about the application, and the board already knows the routes that will be submitted in the application. The OPSB wanted to view the routes while there was still active vegetation growing, to obtain a better understanding of the routes than could be obtained in the late fall or winter.

I thanked Ted for his time and information, and said that I hoped we could talk again regarding the project.

Edited by author 09-18-2007 10:20 AM
I was contacted by Senator Grendell's office on Monday, September 17, 2007, to alert me to a meeting on Monday, September 24, 2007 at 8:30 AM at the Montville Community Center. Huntsburg Township Trustee Nancy Kothera confirmed with me that the meeting was open to all interested parties.

The purpose of the discussion will be to report on the meeting that took place between Senator Grendell and The Ohio Power Siting Board on August 20th. According to the announcement letter from Senator Grendell's administrative assistant Roman Jerger, the meeting is open to all interested parties.

Spoke with Montville Trustee Alexa Holbert Sept. 17. Tim Grendell is meeting with Trustees on Monday 09/24/2007 at 8:30AM. I will speak with her Monday evening about what was discussed. I urge all residents to keep in contact with their trustees. It doesn't matter which route Fist Energy chooses, the effects will be devasting for all. Property value for everyone in our townships will decrease.

Edited by author 09-17-2007 01:18 PM
The Morrison property is parcel number 20-070824, located on Burrows Road, 1244 feet east of the intersection of 528 and Burrows Road. It sold on 8/28/2007 for $38,000. It's now owned by AMERICAN TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS INC., 76 S MAIN ST, AKRON OH 44308.

I don't have a detailed route map for the entire 528 route, only the small map that was on the public notice hand outs. From the tiny map on the notice, it appears likely that parcel 20-070824 is located on the 528 route.

Without more information, I can't speculate as to why FirstEnergy would have purchased this parcel. However, they own it now. If I learn anything about this parcel, I'll post it.

In the Sept. 13 issue of the Maple Leaf in the Real Estate Transfers for Montville: Donald S. Morrison, Burrows Rd. to American Transmission Systems Inc. $38,000. I was wondering if anyone knew anything about this??? Does it have anything to do with the transmission line they are proposing???

.

Another useful link:

All about Agricultural Districts in Ohio: protections they offer, the eligibility requirements, and how to enroll your property.

http://ohioline.osu.edu/cd-fact/1268.html

.

Edited by author 09-14-2007 02:30 AM

Media Coverage Update - 5

Geauga County Maple Leaf, September 13, 2007
High tension continues in power line controversy

.

Edited by author 09-12-2007 01:33 AM
On Monday, September 10, 2007, I received a telephone call from Mr. David C. Lawrence, telephone number (330) 384-5575, Senior Real Estate Representative with FirstEnergy. He called to let me know that representatives of The Ohio Power Siting Board were going to be walking the entire 528 route. This would include walking across the middle of my farm. He said that this would be happening between the dates of September 17 and October 5. Predictably, my response was to tell Mr. Lawrence that I was not happy about the proposed route and that I was planning to do everything within my power to keep the transmission lines off of my property. Predictably, he said that I'm not the only one with that position.

After we got past the introductions, we had a very decent conversation. I talked to Dave for about 40 minutes. I tried to bring up some serious issues for consideration, and he seemed interested in listening.

1. I brought up the existing corridor at State Route 11, and asked if it had been considered. Dave said that it was considered, but more properties were affected along SR-11 than along either Clay Street or 528. I quickly make the point that it is not fair to compare the routes by counting the number of affected properties. Every property along SR-11 already has a four lane, wide median, mowed and graded, fenced highway running through it. Dave said that installing a transmission line corridor along SR-11 would add perhaps twenty feet of additional land usage outside the fence, and there would be no need to create an access road (the road is already there). Every property along the 528 route is composed of beautiful virgin forest, protected wetlands, productive fields and farms, landscaped groves and orchards. There is no comparison between affecting a property by adding twenty feet to an existing 200 foot highway and affecting a property by drilling a sixty foot clear cut corridor and access road through virgin land. These are two completely different breeds of "affecting" and the route scoring process has apparently failed to acknowledge the distinction!
2. We talked about the use of the bike path and parts of the old Rachel line route. Dave said that it was his understanding that there was a legal means whereby the park district or some of the land owners make it impossible for FirstEnergy to use that route. I made it clear that the facts told a different story. The facts are that some of the easements to B&O Railroad contained reversion clauses that caused the railroad right of way to revert back to the original property owner if B&O Railroad relinquished their rights under their easement. When the railroad transferred the property to the County Commissioners, and subsequently to the Geauga Park District, the Moon family required a clause in the newly negotiated easement that if FirstEnergy were to attempt to construct a transmission line along the route, that the Geauga Park District would oppose the project. This makes sense, since if there were a mechanism by which the Geauga Park District could make their property immune to a utility company's power of eminent domain, I'd want that same immunity for my property.
3. I explained that my farm and the farms adjacent to it were part of an Agricultural District, and that Ohio Revised Code section 4906.10 Basis for decision granting or denying certificate division 7 says, "In addition to the provisions contained in divisions (A)(1) to (6) of this section and rules adopted under those divisions, what its impact will be on the viability as agricultural land of any land in an existing agricultural district established under Chapter 929. of the Revised Code that is located within the site and alternative site of the proposed major utility facility." Dave did not know that the proposed 528 route cut directly through and across many established agricultural districts.
4. We briefly discussed the process by which the routes were identified.I demonstrated that I was familiar with the basic industry standard process for identifying line segments and optimizing the route to obtain the best score. I strongly delivered the fact that while basic industry standard methods may yield usable results in the majority of cases, they are not infallible. The routes identified for this transmission line project represent a situation where the industry standard method completely failed to minimize impact. One could argue that the proposed routes nearly maximize havoc and mayhem on the affected properties.

My intuition was that Dave Lawrence was interested in what I had to say. He agreed to make some of my points known to others in his organization. Our conversation ended on a friendly note and I invited him to contact me with any questions he might have or to discuss the issues further.

.
UPDATE: Log of contacts with FirstEnergy regarding proposed power line

Shortly past noon today (September 10, 2007) I received a telephone call from Mr. David C. Lawrence, a Senior Real Estate Representative with FirstEnergy, with whom I have had previous contact (/m40). He informed me that representatives of the Ohio Power Siting Board will be walking the entire length of the proposed "Cross-country Route" sometime during the period September 17 - October 5. The walkers are to be outfitted in suitable high-visibility clothing due to the fact that hunters will be afield at the same time. He further stated that they would view the entire "Clay Street Route" by driving it during the same time period.
.

Don't forget to talk to your elected officals about the transmission line at the Great Geauga County Fair.

The August meeting between FirstEnergy, The Ohio Power Siting Board and local officials, to my knowledge, did not take place. While the Ohio Power Siting Board did meet on August 20, 2007, I was not informed of the additional meeting with FE. I suspect that scheduling difficulties prevented the meeting from happening.

I could not find a date for the next scheduled meeting of The Ohio Power Siting Board on the OPSB web site. I'll keep checking and post the date when it appears on the OPSB calendar.

Edited by author 08-28-2007 11:22 PM
On Tuesday, August 28, 2007, a new letter was posted on the OPSB web site from the Troy Township Board of Trustees, signed by Board Chairman and Trustee Enos Detweiler. This letter clarifies the position of the Troy Township Board of Trustees with respect to The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. As Mr. Detweiler promised, the letter states that:


The Board of Trustees recognizes the need to bring dependable electric service to our community. In order to accomplish this end new transmission lines will need to be constructed. The Board supports construction of the lines through areas where the least amount of hardship will be caused for property owners. Alternative routes may need to be identified to minimize splitting property parcels in the Thompson, Montville, Huntsburg and Middlefield Township areas.


Please read the entire letter by clicking here. This letter is a powerful statement from an elected official to the OPSB and to FirstEnergy, expressing the desire that the transmission line project be constructed in a reasonable manner.

Friends and neighbors, this letter in our favor did not appear spontaneously. It was written because I called Trustee Detweiler on the telephone, explained the situation with supporting facts and logic, and asked him to help. He came through and did what he promised. If I can make a friend and achieve a favorable result with one phone call, imagine what would happen if every resident affected by the Clay Street and 528 routes made a similar telephone call to an elected township, county or state official.

There is real power in making your voice heard. Now would be a very good time to exercise that power.

Hello Ty. I don’t have good answers to your questions. There has been ample speculation as to what processes have failed and why we have arrived at our present point, but few solid facts. Hopefully, with the help of Senator Grendell, we will have some facts after his meeting with the OPSB is completed.

Stay tuned.

Thanks Jim. Just realized there were more than one page of posts. Sorry-rookie mistake.

Being totally new to this, if there is an existing corridor that is within the reasonable range of compromise, why is creating a new corridor, with all the clearing, construction, and headache, a more feasable opiton for them? Is it actually less expensive? What about the hours of meetings with towns and disgruntled landowners? That alone seems like a good reason to run the existing route!

I will go back and read all the posts. Thanks again Jim, and look forward to chatting with you.

Edited by author 08-12-2007 11:07 PM
On Saturday, August 11, 2007, I had a very pleasant and productive telephone conversation with Troy Township Trustee Enos Detweiler. I gave some background on our struggle with FirstEnergy over their choice of corridor for the new transmission line, then mentioned that the letter from the Troy Township Board of Trustees to the OPSB could be construed to say that the Troy Township Board of Trustees was endorsing the FE plans as proposed.

Mr. Detweiler was not aware of the difficult struggle taking place between the residents of Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg Townships and FE. He said that all he really knew about the project was what he read from the newspapers (and we all know that the newspapers have not been a significant source of detailed information). He said that the Troy Township Board of Trustees passed a resolution endorsing the upgrade of electrical utility service in Troy Township, based on numerous requests made by Troy Township residents and businesses.

In describing our difficulties with FE, I made it very clear that no one is trying to dissuade FE from improving the electrical infrastructure in our county. As residents of Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg Townships, our goal is to realize a simple, two part objective:

1. To facilitate improvement of the electrical infrastructure in eastern Geauga and western Ashtabula counties, and
2. To do so in a manner that does not ruin the farms, properties and lifestyles of affected residents.

Mr. Detweiler expressed hearty agreement with our goal and indicated that he would help in the following ways:

• Creation of a follow-up letter to the OPSB that clarifies the position of the Troy Township Board of Trustees as endorsing the upgrade of electrical utility service in Troy Township, that must to be done in a manner that does not ruin the farms, properties and lifestyles of affected residents.


• Bringing the topic of The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project to the attention of the Council of Townships, so that other leaders may benefit from improved understanding, and hopefully choose to help further our cause.

I thanked Mr. Detweiler for his time and attention, and especially for his pledge of assistance. It would be very reasonable to send a note or to make a quick telephone call to Mr. Detweiler, thanking him for his concern.

Hello Ty.

You bring up some good points. No one that I know is seriously arguing that the electrical infrastructure in western Ashtabula and eastern Geauga counties should not be upgraded by FirstEnergy. The problem is that FirstEnergy has proposed to implement the upgrade by plowing a new utility corridor through virgin residential, agricultural and environmentally sensitive land.

There are nearby utility rights of way that need to be considered for the new transmission line. SR-11 is a longer route and is located further east than the proposed new corridor, but it is a pre-existing utility right of way. The length and location should be within the range of compromise concomitant with responsible use of a pre-existing corridor.

This discussion contains a wealth of information. Start from the beginning and learn along with all of us.

Edited by author 08-12-2007 09:57 PM
Wow. Glad I found this post. A lot of interesting stuff. Some of my relative's land is proposed to be affected by the 528 corridor.

There's no doubt about it--the county needs this transmission line, and has for some time. I see a lot of 'NIMBY' here, but little in the way of solid alternative solutions. Maybe I missed a post?

It has to run somewhere. Route 11 seems a great distance out of the way. And underground comes at great expense, which will no doubt be passed on to consumers. Plus, I would assume the electromagnetic fields around the lines would still effect the area, which to me seems more important than visuals.

Just wondering what everyone's ideas are for solving this problem, other than putting the lines in someone else's backyard.

Edited by author 08-12-2007 10:20 PM
The Ohio Power Siting Board web site posted a letter today from the Troy Township Board of Trustees.

In this declaration, the Troy Township Board of Trustees "supports the proposed new transmission line". They further proceed to declare that "The power line will be an asset to all Geauga County industries and businesses. We encourage your support of this utility enhancement".

I agree with their basic premise, that improved utility service to the residents and businesses of Geauga County is desirable. I've been on board with improving the electrical utility infrastructure in Geauga County from the start, and my desire to make improvements has not changed.

Unfortunately,I don't agree with the manner in which the Troy Township Board of Trustees has endorsed FirstEnergy's plans without taking into explicit consideration the fact that the proposed new transmission line corridor would decimate the families, farms, properties and lifestyles of the affected parties.

The residents of Troy Township and their elected trustees are our neighbors and friends. I don't understand why they chose to make these declarations without requesting, if not demanding, that FirstEnergy design the new transmission line corridor in such a way as to not demolish the worlds of THEIR NEIGHBORS AND FRIENDS (THAT MEANS THE RESIDENTS OF THOMPSON, MONTVILLE AND HUNTSBURG TOWNSHIPS).

The Troy Township Board of Trustees is:

Gerald Mitchell, 834-8492 (Term expires: 12/31/09)

Ralph Elmer Hershberger, 834-4748 (Term expires: 12/31/07)

Enos A. Detweiler, 834-8143 (Term expires: 12/31/09)

I will be making telephone calls to each member of The Troy Township Board of Trustees, to express my dissatisfaction with their letter to the OPSB.

Edited by author 08-10-2007 12:41 AM
Browsing through old cases on the OPSB web site, I came across an interesting project named the “The Davidson-Dublin Electric Transmission Line”. This transmission line project, approved on April 27, 2004 by the OPSB, created a new 138 kV transmission line just northwest of Columbus, OH. The case number is 02-2153-EL-BTX.

According to the announcement, “The route was agreed to by AEP, the city of Dublin, OPSB Staff, Neighbors for Responsible Powerline Placement, and Duke Realty. The route was found by OPSB Staff to present minimal environmental impact. In addition, the witnesses who testified at a public hearing held in Dublin on March 29, 2004 supported the selected route.”

How could a 138 kV transmission line project be looked upon with such favor by the local government and citizens? There are two reasons that stand out:

1. The Davidson-Dublin line uses a pre-existing utility right of way parallel to Interstate 270, and
2. The Davidson-Dublin Electric Transmission Line is a completely underground installation.

My take-away from this case is that it is possible to design 138 kV transmission line projects in ways that do not destroy properties and farms. Please read the case file and the announcement, and then draw your own conclusion.

I just heard from Senator Grendell’s office regarding rescheduling the meeting between FirstEnergy, The Ohio Power Siting Board and local officials. His staff is trying to set up the meeting for Monday, August 20, 2007. They said that it is very tricky trying to coordinate the schedules of all of the people involved, but I’m going to keep my schedule on the 20th clear until I know otherwise. When the date is set, Senator Grendell’s office will confirm.

Fortunately, the earthmoving exercise on 86 next to the transmission lines turned out to be a wetlands mitigation project named the "Leroy Center Wetlands." It sounds like it will eventually become part of the Lake Metropark System.

opppsss.........opened my mouth before i read the post below.....never mind. I do want to say I appreciate all that the people here are doing to reroute the proposed lines.

Thanks you to all

8/2/07 I recently noticed the construction at the girdled rd./rte 86 interesection has stopped. To me it looks like they put in a group of small retention pond areas with a buffer hill along the side where that lone house is located.

Any ideas as to what is going on there?

LEIMCO is working on a wetlands project. News-Herald Article.

Edited by author 07-20-2007 12:29 AM
As of this writing, July 19, 2007, there have been 93 documents filed and posted at the OPSB web page for The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, case number 07-0171-EL-BTX. Almost all of these documents are sincere, well-written expressions of public opinion, from affected residents, land owners and farmers to the OPSB, voicing their dissatisfaction with the proposed transmission line corridor. In addition to expressing dissatisfaction with the proposed corridor, many letters propose alternatives, such as State Route 11, as workable corridors for the new transmission line.

To everyone who has taken the time to write to the OPSB, to FirstEnergy or to any of our elected or appointed officials, let me THANK YOU for making your voice heard. To everyone else in northeast Geauga County that has not written to OPSB, FirstEnergy or our elected or appointed officials, NOW WOULD BE A GOOD TIME TO WRITE. FirstEnergy is more than three months behind their original target date for making their application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need to the OPSB. It is my belief that a significant reason for the delay is the amount of public outcry, both directly from affected residents, land owners and farmers, and indirectly from our elected representatives such as State Senator Timothy Grendell and U.S. Congressman Steven C. LaTourette.

Please make your voice heard. There is no wrong way to make your voice heard. Write letters, send emails, make telephone calls, do whatever it takes to let FirstEnergy, the OPSB, our Board of County Commissioners, and the rest of our elected or appointed officials know your opinion. It's also very important to let our elected representatives State Senator Timothy Grendell and U.S. Congressman Steven C. LaTourette, who have proven through their words and actions that they are "on our side", know that you appreciate their work on our behalf and that you want them to keep fighting for our interests.

Don't delay -- make your voice heard!

Edited by author 07-20-2007 12:44 AM
New Case on the PUCO Web Page.

The PUCO web site posted an interesting new case today, July 19, 2007. The case number is 07-0820-EL-BLN, titled, "AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER LETTER OF NOTIFICATION WARNER 138 KV EXTENSION SERVICE TO RTI."  This case demonstrates the filing made by a utility company for a new 138 kV transmission line.  There is a major difference between 07-0820-EL-BLN, AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER LETTER OF NOTIFICATION WARNER 138 KV EXTENSION SERVICE TO RTI and 07-0171-EL-BTX, GEAUGA COUNTY 138KV TRANSMISSION LINE SUPPLY PROJECT.  In the case of the Warner Extension project, the length of the transmission line was short enough that it was not subject to review by the entire OPSB (see OAC 4906-1-01 Appendix A1(c). for the rules that define when a project is exempt from board review).  However, the letter of notification contains many relevant sections and appendices that are very worth reading as background material for what CEI's application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need for The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project might contain. 

I highly recommend reading this document.

Media Coverage Update - 4

Geauga County Maple Leaf, June 28, 2007
Route for FirstEnergy power lines still up in air

.

Edited by author 06-25-2007 03:15 AM
.
UPDATE: Log of contacts with FirstEnergy regarding proposed power line

Note: The June 20 phone call reported in my previous Update (m37)as having come from Mr. David M. Wareham of FirstEnergy was actually made by Mr. David C. Lawrence, also a Senior Real Estate Representative with FirstEnergy, 76 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308. I apologize for the misidentification which resulted from the identical first names.

June 21, 2007

Letter from Mr. David C. Lawrence via UPS Express Envelope

Original Map Set received in March from David Wareham

Revised Map Set received June 21 from David Lawrence

June 24, 2007

Response to David Lawrence

[I will continue to update this as the need arises.]
.

Edited by author 06-22-2007 01:29 AM
Don Geddis alerted us that there was some construction going on at the intersection of CEI's corridor of four 138 kV circuits and two 345 kV circuits that run between the Leroy Center switching station and the Chesterland substation, and Route 86.

On Thursday, June 21, 2007, I drove up to the construction site to see what I could see. Don was not kidding. There is a big construction project happening next to the CEI circuits. Click here for an aerial photo where I have added a red rectangle in the general area of the earthmoving work. The area is about 1100 by 400 feet. At the moment, they appear to be creating a level and graded plane in are area of the red rectangle.

I took some photos while I was poking around the construction site, looking north from the access road, and looking east from the corner of the construction. From Route 86 looking north, I could see the entire site. This is the view from the corridor, looking north toward the steam coming from the Perry Nuclear Power Plant. Take a hard look at this picture -- and think about it when you write to First Energy or your elected officials to express your opinion on The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project.

There was no evidence of the FirstEnergy, American Transmission Systems, Inc., or CEI name posted around the construction site. I did not see a permit or other official document posted anywhere around the site. According to the Lake Navigator property database, the area of the construction is not owned CEI. It's on parcel number 07-A-888-0-08-100-0, which is owned by LEIMCO DEVELOPMENT CO LTD, 60 S PARK PL PAINESVILLE OH 44077. I know nothing about LEIMCO (which stands for Lake Erie Iron and Metal Company) other than the fact that Google searches show LEIMCO as involved in several EPA activities and that the Osborne name often appears along with LEIMCO. If anyone has facts related to LEIMCO, please let me know.

Based on the facts and observations, my initial guess is that this construction site is not going to be a CEI substation. The area is much too large for a 138 kV to 36 kV substation. There aren't many 345 kV to 138 kV substations around, but I will try to check on their sizes based on the aerial photos and compare them to this construction site. I do not know whether construction of a substation on this site would require a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need from the OPSB, since it does not appear to require taking property from any owner other than LEIMCO. I have not seen any instances where CEI has constructed substations on property owned by an entity other than CEI. Nevertheless, will do some searching on the PUCO web site and will post anything relevant that I can find.

Has anyone noticed the construction going on at Rte 86 and Girdled Rd.?? Looks like they are moving ahead already on building a substation at the high power line there now. Can they do this without any approval?? Or are "we" just a formality??

How would someone go about finding out what they are doing??

Edited by author 06-20-2007 04:38 PM
.
UPDATE: Log of contacts with FirstEnergy regarding proposed power line

Note: My most recent contact with FirstEnergy prior to today, as documented in my previous set of log entries (see /m9), took place April 9, 2007 with Mia Moore. The log entry reads:

Having had no response to either of my communications to Mr. Wareham, contacted Mia More by telephone. She will be on vacation next week, but promises to get me some answers if I will send her copies of my correspondence. Sent her the full file via e-mail this afternoon.

June 20, 2007

Approx. 10:30 a.m. received a phone call from Mr. David M. Wareham, Senior Real Estate Representative, FirstEnergy, 76 South Main Street, Akron, OH 44308. He informed me that FirstEnergy is "taking another look" at the Clay Street and Cross Country (Rt. 528) proposed routes, and that I could expect to see survey workers at the rear of my property within the next 10 days.

I complained to him about his failure to respond to my previous correspondence. He promised to "as soon as I hang up" find my letter and prepare a verbal response to the questions contained in the letter. I told him that a verbal response would not be satisfactory, that I wanted his reply in writing, and he promised that he would do so.

We are at Day One, and counting . . .

[I will update this as the need arises.]
.

Edited by author 06-23-2007 03:18 PM

Media Coverage Update - 4

Geauga County Maple Leaf, June 14, 2007
Electric company seems to favor Route 528

.

Edited by author 06-18-2007 01:29 PM
I found the following message included with one of the earlier Maple Leaf news article posts:

Geauga~Link, on behalf of all who are visiting this topic on the Raccoon County Roundtable, thanks the publisher of the Geauga County Maple Leaf for giving us permission to reproduce all its published stories dealing with the proposed new FirstEnergy power line in Geauga County.

We are therefore on solid ground reproducing Maple Leaf articles here on the Roundtable.

Edited by author 06-18-2007 01:20 PM
Last week's Maple Leaf included an article that covered the Huntsburg Trustees' meeting that took place on Tuesday, June 5, 2007. I have read the article, and believe that it should be posted here for everyone to study.

If someone has the equipment to scan and post the article, please do so. If someone can at least scan it and email the image to me, I will take care of posting it. I have seen other Maple Leaf articles posted on the Roundtable, and I believe that the Maple Leaf has granted limited permission to reproduce articles related to the Geauga 138 kV Power Line Project.

Today we mailed copies of a letter opposing the power lines and forwarded it with photos to: OPSB, Governor Ted Strickland, Lt Governor Lee Fisher, David Lawrence, Real Estate appraiser for First Energy, Congressmen Steven LaTourette and Senator Sherrod Brown. I also forwarded the letter to the OPSB site thru an e-mail. I attached photos of an aerial photo of our property, maps, photos of the woodland and large trees in our woods that would be removed. I continue to urge neighbors to forward their comments. We have been told the time is NOW and to "get it done".
We plan to attend any forums held in Columbus and would be glad to organize a "road trip". We applaude all that our keeping us informed at this site! Thanks! Virgil and Marsha Carpenter, Leggett Road

On May 24, 2007, AMERICAN TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS INCORPORATED purchased Parcel 16-011052 from JACQUELINE BUCKELS for $135,000. This is the parcel with frontage on Mayfield Road next to the existing small substation, 1945 feet east of 528. It's a 25.04 acre parcel, that extends next to and behind Walters Pond.

Back on March 16, ATSI purchased Parcel 16-078624 and Parcel 16-002400 for $95,800.00 each.

ATSI now owns 7.44 acres at the end of the proposed Clay Street route, and 25.04 acres at the end of the proposed 528 route.

Now would be an appropriate time to make your voice heard to our elected officials.

Edited by author 06-05-2007 05:09 PM
.
ATSI responds to Congressman Steven C. LaTourette concerning five alternative routes proposed by public officials

From: Setliff, Deborah
Sent: Thursday, May 31, 2007 9:25 AM
To: Alexa Holbert; Bill Young (byoung@geaugabocc.org); Craig Albert (calbert@geaugabocc.org); Frank Sirna; James Galm; Mary Samide (msamide@geaugabocc.org); Matthew Dolan; Nancy Kothera; Rachel Kuehn; Tim Grendell (SD18@mailr.sen.state.oh.us)
Cc: DiSanto, Dino

Subject: LaTourette-First Energy Response

As you recall, the Congressman asked First Energy to address other possible locations for the transmission line. Here is the official response that our office received. Dino is out of the office on vacation all next week so feel free to call or email me if you have questions and I'll make sure your concerns are relayed to the Congressman.

Thanks much

Deb

Deborah Setliff
Communications Director
Congressman Steven C. LaTourette (OH-14)
1 Victoria Place, Room 320
Painesville, OH 44077
Office: 440-352-3939 or 800-447-0529, ext 11
Cell: 440-708-4751
Blackberry: <mailto:deborah.setliff@mail.house.gov>; deborah.setliff@mail.house.gov

Above e-mail copy courtesy of Nancy Kothera

Copy of ATSI response (PDF file)
.

Edited by author 05-21-2007 07:29 PM
The Ohio Revised Code contains all statutes of a permanent and general nature of the state, i.e., the laws of Ohio.  Chapter 4096, titled, CHAPTER 4906: POWER SITING, describes the statutes that control the operation of the The Ohio Power Siting Board. 

One particular section, 4906.10 Basis for decision granting or denying certificate, is extremely important to our success in persuading FirstEnergy and the OPSB that the proposed Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg transmission line corridor is not acceptable.  This section details eight specific conditions that must be satisfied before a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need is granted.  These eight specific conditions are:

1. The basis of the need for the facility if the facility is an electric transmission line or gas or natural gas transmission line;

 
2. The nature of the probable environmental impact;

 
3. That the facility represents the minimum adverse environmental impact, considering the state of available technology and the nature and economics of the various alternatives, and other pertinent considerations;

 
4. In the case of an electric transmission line or generating facility, that the facility is consistent with regional plans for expansion of the electric power grid of the electric systems serving this state and interconnected utility systems and that the facility will serve the interests of electric system economy and reliability;

 
5. That the facility will comply with Chapters 3704., 3734., and 6111. of the Revised Code and all rules and standards adopted under those chapters and under sections 1501.33, 1501.34, and 4561.32 of the Revised Code. In determining whether the facility will comply with all rules and standards adopted under section 4561.32 of the Revised Code, the board shall consult with the office of aviation of the division of multi-modal planning and programs of the department of transportation under section 4561.341 of the Revised Code.

 
6. That the facility will serve the public interest, convenience, and necessity;

 
7. In addition to the provisions contained in divisions (A)(1) to (6) of this section and rules adopted under those divisions, what its impact will be on the viability as agricultural land of any land in an existing agricultural district established under Chapter 929. of the Revised Code that is located within the site and alternative site of the proposed major utility facility. Rules adopted to evaluate impact under division (A)(7) of this section shall not require the compilation, creation, submission, or production of any information, document, or other data pertaining to land not located within the site and alternative site.

 
8. That the facility incorporates maximum feasible water conservation practices as determined by the board, considering available technology and the nature and economics of the various alternatives.

I believe that these eight conditions represent the viable legal "targets" for forcing CEI's application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need to be denied.  There are other arguments that can be made for using a transmission line corridor other than the Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg transmission line corridor.  These arguments, such as property values and health/safety concerns, are valid and represent important points.  However, I don't believe that OPSB is required to consider arguments based on property values, health/safety concerns, or any other consideration not included in these eight specific conditions.  I'm neither a judge nor an attorney, so if my interpretation of the legal situation is not accurate, please correct me. 

My reason for presenting and emphasizing these legal targets is my belief that if we can specifically and factually show that one or more of these eight conditions is not satisfied for The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project as proposed, then the OPSB is required by law to deny CEI's application for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need. 

Edited by author 05-21-2007 06:17 PM
As I review the many letters sent to the OPSB by my neighbors and friends, I'm noticing that we are getting into the very positive habit of proposing workable alternatives as well as expressing dissatisfaction with the proposed transmission line corridor.

The importance of proposing workable alternatives can not be over emphasized. Back at the special meeting on March 31, Senator Grendell make a strong point that taking the position that the Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project was simply impossible would cause him to be labeled as an "obstructionist". He said that the way to get things working is to point out that Thompson, Montville and Huntsburg corridor was not acceptable AND to present an alternative that IS acceptable. This is what we're doing in our letters - it makes a huge difference.

There are several workable alternatives that have been presented. I believe that State Route 11 is the best alternative, since it allows FirstEnergy's objectives to be met with minimal disruption of families, farms, lifestyles and properties, and almost no environmental impact. Other routes, such as Mayfield Road, the Rachel route and Route 87, also offer possibilities, although perhaps not as straight-forward as SR-11.

Please keep the pressure on FirstEnergy by making your voice heard.

Edited by author 05-21-2007 12:20 PM
On Tuesday, April 17, 2007, FirstEnergy filed its 2007-ELECTRIC LONG-TERM FORECAST REPORT TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION OF OHIO.  The report case number is 07-504-EL-FOR.  This promised to be a very significant document to further understanding the issues and constraints of the Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, in that the report describes the forecast electrical transmission and distribution needs for FirstEnergy's service area. 

Along with submitting the complete Report, FirstEnergy made a MOTION FOR PROTECTIVE ORDER to The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio to place Chapter 3 of the Report, titled "ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION FORECAST", under prohibition of disclosure and submit Chapter 3 under seal of confidentiality.  In the "Memorandum in Support of Motion for Protective Order" attached to the motion, FirstEnergy cites two reasons why the information in Chapter 3 should be hidden from public view: 

1. It describes Critical Energy Infrastructure Information, that could be used by terrorists to create havoc, and

 
2. It contains trade secret information that could could be used by FirstEnergy's competitors to gain a competitive advantage over FirstEnergy.

These are extremely weak reasons to keep Chapter 3 secret.  Publicly available aerial photos show the locations of all substations and transmission lines, so these are not secret.  As a public utility company, First Energy should be forthcoming to the public as to its plans.  The science of electrical transmission is sufficiently well understood that it is hard to imagine that FirstEnergy's competitors will "put FE out of business" by learning their secrets. 

Unfortunately, Chapter 3 contains the very information that would allow engineers outside of FirstEnergy to understand the needs for and constraints surrounding The Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 

FirstEnergy submitted its 2007-ELECTRIC LONG-TERM FORECAST REPORT TO THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION OF OHIO in two parts.  The Report with Chapter 3 removed is available here, while a one page document that says "Chapter 3 Was Here" is available in another posting.  The Report with Chapter 3 removed doesn't contain anything of relevance to the Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project.  Chapter 3 is the pot of gold, but we aren't allowed to view it. 

Edited by author 05-18-2007 10:30 PM
.
Excerpt from the Minutes of the Huntsburg Township Trustees meeting of April 3, 2007

Cy Zion and Pat Jonath were present to see where the Board of Trustees stood and to seek their support in opposing the First Energy proposal of placing a 138KV Power line down state route 528. The proposal will cut properties in half and remove homes that are in the pathway. Trustees attended a special meeting held on March 31 at 9:00 am at the Montville Community Center.

A copy of the letter sent by Thompson Trustees to the Ohio Power Siting Board was received and reviewed.

Letters will be drafted and sent to the Ohio Power Sighting Board opposing the Clay Street and State Route 528 Routes after trustees attend more meetings to discuss alternate routes. The following letter will be sent to First Energy.

Copy of letter in a PDF file
...

A Letter from Jeff & Lucile Walters referring to the power line in close proximity to Walter’s Lake was received along with emails from other family members.
.

As a member of the Ohio Farm Bureau, I just received the following notice. Thought the readers of this forum may be interested.


The Geauga County Farm Bureau is having a Government Affairs Meeting on Thurs.,May 17th, 2007 from 7:00pm-9:00pm at the Geauga County Extension Office (Burton Fairgrounds).

Topic: What Your Rights Are If The Utility Company Croses Your Property With Power Lines

Speakers are: Mr. Larry Gearhardt & Mr. Dale Arnold both from Ohio Farm Bureau State Staff.

RSVP to the Farm Bureau Office-needed by Wed.,May 16th at the following phone number: 1-800-410-4613

Don Miller

Edited by author 05-01-2007 01:27 PM
Important New Letter Posted on OPSB Web Site.

Today, May 1, 2007, a letter to the OPSB was posted, written by Professor Randy James, Ph.D., Ohio State University Extension. In his letter, Professor James makes an eloquent and powerful argument against the proposed transmission line corridor, based on the impact of the corridor on local agriculture and the economics thereof.

Professor James concludes his letter to the OPSB by writing,

So the question to the Supply Project Team is; can you find ways to reduce, or eliminate, negative impacts to one of the only thriving, robust, growing industries we have? If we are truly interested in creating a "business friendly" environment, then damaging family "farm businesses" is a very poor way to start.

Please do two tasks.

1. Write a note or an email to Professor James at james.7@osu.edu, thanking him for his letter and letting him know that you appreciate his work, and

 
2. Read his letter and make it available to your friends and neighbors that do not have access to the Internet.

We can never have enough friends like Professor James in our effort to persuade CEI to look elsewhere for a transmission line corridor.

Thanks for the very interesting article, Tiffani. Please post links to any other papers that you locate related to the effects of low frequency electromagnectic fields on biology or disease.

Edited by author 04-29-2007 07:25 PM
Thank You, Tiffani Cappello! We must keep driving this message home!

Companies such as First Energy refute the correlation between of strong EMF's and cancer through their own studies.

Studies show that if a person is maintained in constant EMF's there is little cellular disruption, as the body adapts. It is the movement in and out of these fields (ie leaving home to go to work/school for the day and then returning), that causes the greatest cellular disruption.

I don't know any people in my neighborhood that don't leave their home!

Edited by author 04-29-2007 05:55 PM
A Letter to Residents

Posted on behalf of Tiffani Cappello, Huntsburg
tom121@windstream.net

ARE YOU AWARE THAT THE PLACEMENT OF A 138kv TRANSMISSION LINE DOWN CLAY STREET COULD DOUBLE YOUR RISK OF CANCER!!!!!!

I have been conducting a review of available medical literature on the health effects of living is close proximately to these lines. There is a statistically significant elevation in cancer risk for people living near 138kv transmission lines, which is supported by much research. First Energy has been in the business of property destruction for many years now - with no apparent concern for property aesthetics or value. I am not convinced that a public outcry over lowered property value and/or destruction will be enough to alter the opinions of the siting board on the proposed line site. However public concern over the health effects of this line would get more attention. It seems to me that the major concern for First Energy is their bottom line - $$$$. The fear of potential lawsuits resulting from cancer clusters developing amongst Clay St. residents may exert considerable influence over their decision.

 Despite claims to the contrary, the debate is still out on the safety of EMF exposure from high voltage lines on human health. Many reputable scientists conducting research on this subject have demonstrated that EMF exposure from such high voltage lines can induce cellular and biological changes in human organisms.

Such changes consist of:
1. Changes in immune function
2. Alterations in the production of melatonin
3. Changes in biorhythm
4. Notable changes in human brain activity and heart function
5. Cancer clustering (particularly childhood leukemia and brain tumors) in residential areas around high voltage lines

Although other studies have been done in an attempt to discredit research showing a positive correlation between EMF exposure and health risks in humans, research either conducted or funded by the electrical industry cannot be trusted.
 Recently, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC 2002) designated EMFs as a class 2B carcinogen ("possibly carcinogenic"), based on "consistent statistical associations of high-level residential magnetic fields with a doubling of the risk of childhood leukemia." The California Department of Health Services (CADHS 2002) recently issued a report concluding that "EMFs can cause some degree of increased risk of childhood leukemia, adult brain cancer, Lou Gehrig's disease, and miscarriage."
 In a 2003 review of the epidemiology and laboratory studies relevant to whether power-frequency magnetic fields could be a risk factor for childhood leukemia, Ahlbom and Feychting [A19] concluded that:
To date, close to 20 studies on childhood cancer and residential exposure to ELF fields have been published. The studies have generally been of increasing methodological strengths... To assess the overall evidence, a pooled analysis was carried out based on primary data from the subgroup of nine studies fulfilling certain quality criteria. The principal finding of the pooled analysis was that residential magnetic field exposure in excess of 0.4 µT was associated with about a doubling in the relative risk of childhood leukemia. It was concluded that chance was an unlikely explanation, but that systematic error could explain some of the observed excess risk..."
 While it is apparent that EMF exposure does not directly cause leukemia in children, it is still unclear whether such exposure can induce cellular changes that could increase the risk of developing leukemia via the disruption of cellular function in the human body. Much research still needs to be done before the safety of children and adults living near high voltage lines can be guaranteed. There is NO EXCUSE for First Energy to put these lines near our homes and risk our health.
It is quite clear that some associations and evidence of cancer clustering around high voltage lines have been made. And until more studies can be done to either verify or dismiss this risk, I believe caution is warranted and unnecessary risks to the citizens of Clay and Rt. 528 should be avoided.
The following scientific research studies are just a few that have demonstrated a link between EMF exposure and increase cancer risk:

N Wertheimer and E Leeper: Electrical wiring configurations and childhood cancer. Am J Epidem 109:273-284, 1979.

DA Savitz et al: Case-control study of childhood cancer and exposure to 60-Hz magnetic fields. Am J Epidem 128:21-38, 1988.

SJ London et al: Exposure to residential electric and magnetic fields and risk of childhood leukemia. Am J Epidem 134:923-937, 1991

LM Green, AB Miller et al: Childhood leukemia and personal monitoring of residential exposures to electric and magnetic fields in Ontario, Canada. Cancer Causes Control 10:233-243, 1999.

 JH Olsen et al: Residence near high voltage facilities and risk of cancer in children. BR MED J 307:891-895, 1993.

LM Green, AB Miller et al: A case-control study of childhood leukemia in southern Ontario, Canada, and exposure to magnetic fields in residences. Int J Cancer 82:161-170, 1999.

CY Li et al: Residential exposure to 60-Hertz magnetic fields and adult cancers in Taiwan. Epidemiology 8:25-30, 1997

S Greenland, AR Sheppard et al: A pooled analysis of magnetic fields, wirecodes, and childhood leukemia. Epidemiology 11:624-634, 2000



For a well written and thorough explanation of the health risks of EMFs please visit - http://www.midtod.com/9603/voltage.phtml

Your health and the health of your children is of more value than your property! Let them know that you will hold them accountable for any ill health effects resulting from these lines! If you are concerned, please express this concern to the following people:


To contact Mia Moore, First Energy’s area manager at 440-350-7706 or MLMOORE@firstenergycorp.com

 American Transmission Systems Inc.
Attn: The Geauga 138kV Line Transmission Supply Project Team
Room A-GO-10
76 South Main St.
Akron, OH 44308

FIRST ENERGY COMMENT LINE
1-800-589-2837


Thank you,

Tiffani Cappello
tom121@windstream.net
.

Edited by author 04-28-2007 12:35 PM
I am concerned that some of these news articles and proposals are portraying a "softening" on this issue that is not representative nor in-line with the sentiments of majority of Montville, Huntsburg and Thompson residents that are affected.
  
The proposal of FE "profit-sharing" is useless to those that can potentially be exposed to carcinogenic EMF's. I realize that many more of the Huntsburg residents may be employed in Middlefield and Orwell, but does that ultimately justify softening the position on this issue?

What kind of message is being sent to FE and the OPSB? That we will compromise for $$ at the expense of our neighbor's health? That as long as it's not in MY front yard, I could care less because it helps my employer? That we are at the "mercy" of the power company to supply us with reliable power, at the price of our own good conscience?

Edited by author 04-27-2007 06:07 PM

Media Coverage Update - 3

Geauga County Maple Leaf, April 26, 2007
Officials meet with FirstEnergy as project delayed

.

Welcome aboard Mr. Don Geddis. Thank you for your offer as a contact for Montville. Email me at: don@longshotfarm.com with a phone number and I will bring you up to date on what we are doing. I also submitted an entry in that same newspaper weeks ago, no reply from the newspaper and nothing published. Thanks for checking in.

BTW-for all readers, to date, we have approx. 52 letters submitted to Ohio Power Siting Board. The group, CAN, still has plenty of room for you and your ideas, energies, time and talents. Don't forget to attend your local Trustee meetings and make your voice heard. Listed in posts below is all the contact information.

I am a resident of Montville on Clay St.
I have notified Channel 3 newsman David Summers, an investgative reporter, and apparently they do not find this very news worthy. Also i have had a letter to the editor published, but they too do not find it worthy enough to send someone out to hear our views on this.

I would be happy to donate my time as a contact if you need someone in Montville still.

Residents also need to send emails to the site board for review. They will reveiw all of them once a permit has been filed for.

Is your name below? How about a family member? How about your neighbor?

If your name is NOT listed below, you are missing a very important step in stopping First Energy. All records below can be viewed online at PUCO, click on DIS, enter the case number 07-0171-EL-BTX in the search box.
It takes approx. 1-2 weeks for letters to be posted online. Take the time to write letters, all government and many other contacts are listed in posts below.
  
 DIS Help
Case Lookup # PUCO > DIS > Case Record

 
 
Case Record For 07-0171-EL-BTX
Case Title: AMERICAN TRANSMISSION SYSTEMS INC ATSI AND OHIO POWER SITING BOARD / GEAUGA COUNTY 138KV TRANSMISSION LINE SUPPLY PROJECT
Status: OPEN-OPEN
Industry Code: EL-ELECTRIC
Purpose Code: BTX-Application for a Certificate/ Gas or Electric
Date Opened: 2/21/2007
Date Closed:
 

 

Date Filed Summary Pages
04/18/2007 Response letter filed by D. Garey. 2
04/18/2007 Response letter to Cathy Myers filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 3
04/16/2007 Response letter to Eric J. Urban filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/16/2007 Response letter to Martha Burzanko filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/16/2007 Response letter to Fred Mullet filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to Stephanie Heinsons filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to William and Carol Radigan filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 4
04/13/2007 Response letter to Deborah Gallagher filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to The Honorable Alexa Holbert filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to Catherine J. Beardsley filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 4
04/13/2007 Response letter to Judy Geizer, MT (ASCP) filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 5
04/13/2007 Response letter to Karen Heinsons filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to Clifton B. Dobbs filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to Ada Gillespie filed by the Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to Charles and Mary Reiter filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to Frances Perry filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/13/2007 Response letter to Dan Garey filed by Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck. 2
04/12/2007 Letter in strong opposition to the 138kV transmission line that American Transmission Systems, Inc. proposes to construct in Geauga County, filed by George and Natalie Davet. 8
04/12/2007 Response letter concerning the submission of an application of American Transmission Systems filed by OPSB by K. Lambeck. 3
04/05/2007 Response letter to Derrick Sanislo in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 2
04/05/2007 Response letter to Suzette Miller in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 3
04/05/2007 Response letter to Shawn Ritts in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 2
04/05/2007 Response letter to R. Kuehn in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 2
04/05/2007 Response letter to Karen Ritts in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 4
04/05/2007 Response letter to Kim Mitchell in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 2
04/04/2007 Letter concerning First Energy Corporations certification of the Geauga County 138kV transmission line project filed by R. Kuehn on behalf of Thompson Township Board of Trustees. 1
04/03/2007 Letter regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc. / Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by K. Lambeck on behalf of Staff. 2
04/03/2007 Letter regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc. / Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by K. Lambeck on behalf of Staff. 4
04/03/2007 Letter regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc. / Geauga County - 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by K. Lambeck on behalf of Staff. 3
04/03/2007 Letter regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by K. Lambeck on behalf of Staff. 2
03/30/2007 Response letter to Ms. Cappello in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 3
03/30/2007 Response letter to Mr. Loar in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 2
03/30/2007 Response letter to Mr. Jonath in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 1
03/30/2007 Response letter to Mr. Wilson in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 1
03/30/2007 Correspondence letter with concerns of the locations and installation of a proposed electrical transmission line filed by C. Reardon. 1
03/28/2007 Response letter to Ms. Kendzierski in regard to American Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 2
03/28/2007 Response letter sent to Kenneth Townsend from K. Lambeck, OPSB. 3
03/27/2007 Response letter to Ms. Reardon in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 3
03/27/2007 Correspondence in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc. / Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by D. Miller. 3
03/27/2007 Response letter to Mr. Townsend in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 3
03/27/2007 Response letter to Ms. Hale in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 2
03/27/2007 Response letter to Ms. Zanella in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 2
03/22/2007 Response letter to Don Miller in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 3
03/21/2007 Response letter to Roberta Cheraso in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 2
03/21/2007 Response letter to Frank Wilson in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 2
03/21/2007 Response letter to William, Patricia, and Robert Jonath regarding the American Transmission Systems, Inc./ Geauga County -138kV Transmission Line Project filed by PUCO staff. 3
03/20/2007 Correspondence in regard to American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed by PUCO Staff. 2
03/16/2007 Response letter to Ms. Morse regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County -138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, filed by Ohio Power Siting Board. 2
03/16/2007 Response letter to Ms. Mortland regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, filed on behalf of Ohio Power Siting Board. 1
03/16/2007 Response letter to Ms. Clifton regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc./Geauga County -138kV Transmission Line Supply Project, filed on behalf of Ohio Power Siting Board. 2
03/16/2007 Response letter to Mr. Plesko regarding the proposed American Transmission Systems, Inc/Geauga County-138kV Transmission Line Supply Project filed on behalf of Ohio Power Siting Board by K. Lambeck, Chief. 2
03/12/2007 Letter with concerns of the locations and installation of new power lines and substation, filed by consumer Gale A. Mortland. 1
03/09/2007 Notifications of the public informational meetings, which were filed on March 8, 2007 included notifications of the public informational meeting held on March 6, 2007, as well as the public informational meeting which was held on March 5, 2007, filed on behalf of American Transmission Systems, Inc. by C. Schraff. 2
03/08/2007 Proof of publication (Ashtabula Co., Cuyahoga Co., Lake Co., and Geauga County), filed on behalf of American Transmission Systems, Inc. by C. Schraff. 10
02/21/2007 In the matter of the application of American Transmission Systems, Inc. and Ohio Power Siting Board for a certificate of environmental compatibility and public need for the Geauga County 138kV Transmission Line Supply Project. 3

   

        
 
  
 The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio
180 E. Broad St., Columbus, OH 43215
Ted Strickland, Governor ♦ Alan R. Schriber, Chairman
An Equal Opportunity Employer and Service Provider

Edited by author 04-20-2007 10:58 AM
Please read the following important information and clarifications. The source of the writings is identified below, and the author is an active member of Citizens for Action Now (CAN), against First Energy. Help us to help you, we are all impacted.

Don Miller Clay St.,Thompson don@longshotfarm.com

Info follows:



Legal Information


There has been some discussion about First Energy asking for different forms of land use or land ownership provisions for the proposed power line project. Here is some basic information about what these types of property issues are and how they work.

Right of Way:
 Term used to describe a right belonging to a party to pass over land of another, but it is also used to describe that strip of land upon which railroad companies construct their road bed, and, when so used, the term refers to the land itself, not the right of passage over it.
   As used with reference to right to pass over another’s land, it is only an easement; and grantee acquires only right to a reasonable and usual enjoyment thereof with owner of soil retaining rights and benefits of ownership consistent with the easement.
 Black Law Dictionary, 6th Edition

 What this means is that by giving a right of way you are allowing the person or company who has acquired the right to use your property for ‘reasonable and usual enjoyment’ the right to be on your property without your permission. They can use the right of way for the purpose for which they acquired it. You as the land owner are responsible for the liability, taxes, maintenance and upkeep of the land. The person/company with the right of way simply uses the land for what they want with none of the liability and responsibility associated with the land ownership.

Easement:
 A right of use over the property of another. Traditionally the permitted kinds of uses were limited, the most important being rights of way and rights concerning flowing waters. The easement was normally for the benefit of adjoining lands no matter who the owner was (an easement appurtenant), rather than for the benefit of a specific individual (easement in gross). The land having the right of use as an appurtenance is know as the dominant tenement and the land which is subject to the easement is known as the servient tenement.
 A right in the owner of one parcel of land, by reason of such ownership, to use the land of another for a special purpose not inconsistent with a general property in the owner.
 An interest which one person has in the land of another. A primary characteristic of an easement is that its burden falls upon the possessor of the land from which it is issued and that characteristic us expressed in the statement that the land constitutes a servient tenement and the easement a dominant tenement. An interest in land in and over which it is to be enjoyed, and is distinguishable from a “license” which merely confers personal privilege to do some act on the land.
 Black Law Dictionary, 6th Edition

 What this means is that in granting an easement you are giving a right in your property to another to do some act or have that land for some specific use. That right to use the land is dominant to your right as a property owner. The grant of an easement can be limited to certain uses and for certain durations. Once the easement is granted it is recorded as a property interest in the county recorder’s office. The easement must expire or be ‘bought back’ in order to remove. All subsequent property sales are subject to the easement. The easement is an encumbrance on the land of the person who grants the easement. The person who grants the easement is still responsible for the liabilities of land ownership.

 
Disclaimer: This explanation of the legal terms that I have heard mentioned in reference to the power line project is basic and meant to be a starting point for your consideration of what to do regarding your property. I urge you to consult a lawyer for further information.
Heather L. Moseman, Esq., Thompson Township resident. Office: 440-255-0832

Edited by author 04-19-2007 05:25 PM
There are many alternative corridors that present themselves as workable places to locate the proposed pair of 138 kV transmission lines. One route that stands out, and has not been a part of the major discussion thus far, is State Route 11. I drove to SR-11 on Sunday, April 15, 2007, to get a first hand look at the route.

I was astounded to find that SR-11 is a MADE TO ORDER power line route.

• SR-11 crosses the same four 138 kV circuits that run near the Thompson/Lake County border. The crossing is 1300 yards north of the SR-11/I-90 interchange.

 
• Moving south from the 138 kV circuit pickup point, SR-11 makes only gentle turns and curves. No corners or zigzags would be necessary in the transmission line.

 
• CEI stated in their original project description that a sixty foot wide, clear cut right of way would be required. The side berm on SR-11 is at least sixty feet wide and is already mowed clear!

 
• The environmental impact from a route next to SR-11 would be exactly zero. A huge highway has already been constructed through the entire route. CEI would probably not need to cut down a single tree -- the side berm is already graded flat, drained and completely cleared.

 
• Once the transmission line meets Mayfield Road, in a basically uninhabited area, CEI would have many options. The new substation could be built at the SR-11/Mayfield interchange, running 38 kV sub transmission circuits west along Mayfield, or the 138 kV lines could travel along Mayfield Road all the way to Orwell before meeting up with the existing 38 kV sub transmission circuit that feeds the Orwell substation. The new 138 kV to 38 kV substation could be co-located with the existing Orwell substation, or another location could be found.

SR-11 should be at the top of any proposed route list for this project.

Edited by author 04-17-2007 10:30 AM
On Sun., 04/15/2007 at approx. 2:00PM. a group of concerned citizens met in a residence in Thompson, and formed a team. Our mission is to provide a single point of information and contacts for all 3 communities. The group has coined the name of "CAN" Citizens for Action Now.

This website/discussion will be the common thread using the internet to keep everyone updated with the lastest information. In the event this discussion space ceases to exist, please refer to huntsburg.org as an alternative. It is important to "bookmark" (favorites) both of these sites in your internet browser, and refresh the page.

The group CAN has the following people as primary contacts:

In Thompson: Don Miller email: don@longshotfarm.com
                               (email me and I'll provide a cell number)

   Montville:

   Huntsburg: Jim Galm email: jgalm@huntsburg.org

We are looking for a contact for Montville, please contact through email above or post here if you have the time and energy for this project. We encourage many to participate.

Our first action on Sun. was the start of a bill/law that requires First Energy to contribute 10% of gross receipts from a transmission line project in any affected area, into a 3rd party monitored and managed fund that allows residents/business/farms to use those monies for energy saving improvements or adoption of alternative/renewal energy sources such as wind and solar cell.

Our rationale for this bill/law is that the State of Ohio requires First Energy to provide consistent, reliable power. First Energy will in return reap profits, at the expense of residential and farm land seizures, "rights of way or easements". The land owner recieves virtually nothing while providing land to First Energy. All property owners are subjected to destroyed property values, lack of use of the property they still maintain and pay taxes and insurance on and are visually assaulted daily by the existence of the transmission poles and wires.

The formula for just compensation is clearly out of balance for land owners and we intend to change that. Our group CAN, is grateful and fortunate that we have a local attorney, who is drafting up such language and assisting with legal measures at no charge for this issue. Our local attorney is not even a Clay St. or SR-528 resident, but feels very strongly about this issue. Please remember that Sen. Tim Grendell is also providing such services in his capacity.

What can you do to help.....read this website often, and share the information with your neighbors who may not have access to the internet. We will be passing out fliers in the very near future directing all residents in the Clay St.,SR-528 and adjoining areas to this website. Post your comments here. Write and keep writing your letters to all officials, and voice your opinions loud and clear.

Time is critical-act now, together we all CAN do it!

Thank you for your time-come back soon
Don Miller

Edited by author 04-18-2007 01:15 AM

Media Coverage - 2

Geauga County Maple Leaf, April 12, 2007
Huntsburg Township Trustees weigh power line pros and cons

Geauga County Maple Leaf, April 5, 2007
Citizens lining up against proposed project

.

Edited by author 04-11-2007 04:31 PM
.

Here are a few more useful links:

On the Thompson Township Web site:

http://www.thompsonohio.org/TWP/powerline/index.htm

Some great resource pages on FirstEnergy:

http://www.huntsburg.org/firstenergy/index.htm

.

The text below is from a webpage from Geauga County offices and the link source is listed below. On that webpage, there is only a predicted increase of approx. 29.42% from the years 1990-2025, roughly 30 years. First Energy had permission from the Ohio Power Siting Board to construct an electric transmission line, but failed to do so, due to public comment. Now it is back, and it is projected to impact far more residents, and their property values than ever before.

Electric, Telephone, and Natural Gas Service
Only one new power line corridor has been installed in the county by CEI within the last five years. It parallels relocated S.R. 44 in Chardon Township and is known as the "Pawnee" 138kV transmission line. Another transmission line corridor, identified as the "Rachel" line, was meant to follow a substantial portion of the abandoned B&O Railroad right-of-way between Chardon and the substation CEI operates on Mayfield Road in Claridon Township. This 138kV line has not been built.
http://co.geauga.oh.us/departments/plannin...mland/plan/ch2b.htm


The link below is the Ohio Power Siting Board opinion regarding the Rachel 138 line at that time, approx. 1995

link follows: http://www.puc.state.oh.us/emplibrary/file...earlier/95-600c.pdf

Edited by author 04-07-2007 08:41 PM
Listed below is a link to submit online comments or complaints against the proposed electric line-remember to use the case number 07-0171-EL-BTX
 
https://www.puc.state.oh.us/secure/PicForm/index.cfm

This link allows you to view ALL letters, emails, online submissions for the line to Ohio Power Siting Board. Everyone who has submitted something will see their letters, emails posted intact online within a few days.

You may click on the calendar and start the date from 2/21/2007 to todays date to view all comments regarding the line. You must remember that you need to enter in the case number which is as follows: 07-0171-EL-BTX

Link follows: http://dis.puc.state.oh.us/

Hope this is some assistance, and be assured that there are a group of us (steering committee) meeting in the very near future to develop and coordinate additional plans of action.

Don Miller, Thompson

Edited by author 04-07-2007 01:36 AM
.

My wife and I are 25-year residents of Huntsburg. Our property on Madison Road is one that will be negatively impacted if ATSI is granted the right to use the proposed Eastern Route roughly paralleling Rt. 528. For the sake of others who may have, or be having contact with FirstEnergy/ATSI concerning the power line project, I am offering a log of my experiences:

Log of contacts with FirstEnergy regarding proposed power line

........................................................... .................
March 5
Attended informational meeting at Huntsburg Gymnasium. Met and queried Mia Moore, Area Manager, Illuminating Company, about pole placement along highways.

........................................................... ..................
March 14
Received phone call from David Wareham, Senior Real Estate Representative,
FirstEnergy, who wanted to visit my home to discuss survey work ATSI will be doing on my property. Declined the meeting, indicated that I have no objection to the survey (have since learned they can do the survey with or without my permission), and asked to have the information in a letter.

........................................................... ..................
March 16
Received the requested letter from Mr. Wareham, including one of his business cards containing his contact information with e-mail address, aerial photos of my property with the center line of the proposed route shown, a comment sheet.

........................................................... ..................
March 17
Responded by e-mail to the Wareham letter, as follows:

Dear Mr. Wareham:

Thank you for your prompt letter and the helpful enclosures.

There are a few questions that I will appreciate having answered:

What will be the width of the easement for the proposed line
if the East Route is the final choice?

What will be the width of the easement for the proposed line
if the West Route is the final choice?

When may I expect to see the survey work take place on my
property at 11277 Madison Road?

Should the new line be built using the proposed East Route
and pass through the rear (eastern end) of my property
will I be compelled to permit access through my land from
Rt. 528 to and from the easement area during the construction
phase of the project?

Should the new line be constructed using the proposed East
Route and pass through the rear (eastern end) of my property
will I be compelled to permit access through my land from
Rt. 528 to and from the easement area when the line requires
maintenance or repairs?

Thank you for your assistance in clarifying these matters.

........................................................... ..................
March 24
Having had no response to my March 17 e-mail, sent the following via "snail mail:"

Mr. David M. Wareham
Senior Real Estate Representative
FirstEnergy
76 South Main Street
Akron, OH 44308

Dear Mr. Wareham:
What follows was sent you March 14 in the form of an e-mail message using the address given on your business card attached to your letter of March 14. Having received no response after a week, I conclude that I used the wrong method of communication.

[Balance roughly identical to my earlier e-mail message]

........................................................... ..................
April 6

Having had no response to either of my communications to Mr. Wareham, contacted Mia More by telephone. She will be on vacation next week, but promises to get me some answers if I will send her copies of my correspondence. Sent her the full file via e-mail this afternoon.

........................................................... ..................

I will update this from time to time.
.

.

Media Coverage

Plan to extend electric lines draws opposition in Geauga
The Plain Dealer, Monday, March 26
http://www.cleveland.com/community/plainde...22226370.xml&coll=2

Townships address electrifying issue
The News-Herald, Saturday, March 30
http://www.news-herald.com/site/news.cfm?n...dept_id=21849&rfi=6

Path of power lines has folks in Geauga County charged up
The Plain Dealer, Sunday, April 01
http://www.cleveland.com/news/plaindealer/...78173270.xml&coll=2

.

Is this to be the location for the new Mayfield Road substation?

According to information in the Access Geauga pages on the County Auditor's website, ATSI on March 16 acquired two parcels of land totalling just under 7.5 acres at the southwest corner of Clay Street and Mayfield Road.

For confirmation, see:

http://www.auditor.co.geauga.oh.us/ag/main...hp?parcel=16-078624
and
http://www.auditor.co.geauga.oh.us/ag/main...hp?parcel=16-002400

Edited by author 04-06-2007 06:15 PM
.

Here are some useful links:

All about the Ohio Power Siting Board, how it operates, and how you can have an impact on the decision process:

http://www.opsb.ohio.gov/opsb/about.cfm


Ohio Public Utilities Commission Case Record, including full copies of all case-related correspondence to and from the Commission
and the Power Siting Board:

http://dis.puc.state.oh.us/CaseRecord.aspx?Caseno=07-0171&link=DI

.

Edited by author 04-05-2007 01:30 AM
.

Here is an E-mail contact list:

State Senator Tim Grendell mailto:SD18@mailr.sen.state.oh.us

State Representative Matt Dolan mailto:district98@ohr.state.oh.us

Geauga County Commissioners mailto:commissioners@geaugabocc.org

FirstEnergy
               

Thompson Township
Rachel Kuehn, Fiscal Officer mailto:clerk@thompsonohio.org
Erwin Leffell, Trustee mailto:Erwin.Leffel@ThompsonOhio.org
Ben Smith, Trustee mailto:Ben.Smith@ThompsonOhio.org
Frank Sirna, Trustee mailto:Frank.Sirna@ThompsonOhio.org

Montville Township
Sarah McDonald, Fiscal Officer mailto:smcdonald@montvillegeauga.com
Alexa Holbert, Trustee mailto:aholbert@montvillegeauga.com
Jim Marsic, Trustee mailto:jmarsic@montvillegeauga.com
Randy Peterson, Trustee mailto:rpeterson@montvillegeauga.com

Huntsburg Township
Nancy Saunders, Fiscal Officer mailto:huntsburgtwp@alltel.net
Nancy Kothera, Trustee mailto:mapler@alltel.net
Clark Adams, Trustee mailto:chiefadams@mailbag.net
Pete Seliskar, Trustee mailto:ptsell12@alltel.net

.

Edited by author 04-19-2007 06:01 PM

Announcement of March 31 Joint Trustees' Meeting