Dear Editor, I would like to address Bill Lane and the County Council with respect to the article in the Barrhead Leader concerning the West Power Line Route.
Dear Editor,
I would like to address Bill Lane and the County Council with respect to the article in the Barrhead Leader concerning the West Power Line Route. As a landowner that is directly affected, I couldn't believe the comments made by Bill and Council, that we as residents, “are used to it” because it is already on our “skyline.” I think that this comment is easy for someone to say who is not directly affected! I would like you to ask yourself this question and answer it honestly, what if it was in your backyard? Would your opinion and feelings be the same? Remember, answer honestly . . .
Also, which farmers have you talked to? Were they ones that actually have to farm around the power line structures? Because I can tell you that if you asked me, I would honestly say that it is a real pain in the . . . Think of it this way, if I put a fire hydrant in the middle of your driveway for you to go around every day, would this be an inconvenience to you? Would $1,300 be enough each year?
I wonder, do you think that our property values will go up with this line? Did you ever consider that even though there may not be residences affected now, it definitely could affect future developments. That the installation of this line would destroy potential investment properties purchased with this intent. How would you feel should this happen to you? A property purchased as an investment for retirement that is currently worth $200,000 to $300,000 (conservatively speaking), worth perhaps $20,000 if this line is installed. So, the idea that less people will be impacted in Barrhead may not necessarily be true.
I also wonder why you as “Barrhead Council” should be concerned about Westlock residents. Isn't your job here in Barrhead?
Mr. Lane, after talking to you on Thursday, I would suggest that you read the article in the Barrhead Leader. You assured me that these where not your opinions, and that I shouldn't believe everything I read in the paper. If you really did not express what was quoted in the article I think you should have them print a retraction. I know I would want to have my opinion stated correctly . . . don't you?
So, I have to ask myself this question, what is the real reason that County Council would send off a letter in support of this line? What is the real reason that you want it here? Perhaps tax $$$$$.
Let's be honest, nobody who is directly affected wants it.
Vivian Loitz
