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Hampshire County commissioners approve looking into outside counsel on transmission projects
Summary
The Hampshire County Commission voted to seek estimates for outside legal counsel to advise the county on energy transmission and wind-turbine projects after commissioners raised cost and scope concerns.
Hampshire County commissioners voted May 13 to seek estimates for outside legal counsel to advise the county on pending energy transmission projects, including a proposed transmission corridor and a wind-turbine project in Capen Springs.
The decision came after President Eglanger and Commissioner Bridal expressed caution about legal costs and the county budget. “The decision to hire outside counsel there, for me, would heavily depend on what the cost would be,” Eglanger said, adding the county must weigh roof repairs, deputy cars and other needs against legal bills. Bridal said he would “certainly be in favor of, potentially going that route” if fees were reasonable and the community continued to press concerns.
Why this matters: commissioners said the projects could affect private landowners across a regional corridor and that local officials need guidance on legal options, rights and potential county-level responses. The county does not yet have a scope or fee agreement with any firm; the commission directed staff to solicit potential attorneys and report back with cost estimates and scope options.
During discussion commissioners noted multiple recent community meetings and continuing constituent concern about whether the transmission project would bring benefits to Hampshire County. Eglanger repeatedly emphasized fiscal limits on the county budget and cautioned that legal work could become costly. Bridal said counsel might be worthwhile to protect residents’ interests if affordable options exist.
Formal action: Commissioner Bridal moved that staff seek outside counsel and fee estimates; the commission seconded the motion and voted in favor. Commissioners agreed to continue the matter at a later meeting after gathering cost information and conferring with the absent commissioner.
Next steps: staff will contact potential attorneys, collect fee estimates and return the information for the commission to decide whether to retain counsel and which scope of work to pursue.
