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West Virginia residents ask Monongalia County to oppose MARL transmission project; commission says it is researching
Summary
Speakers asked the county to pass a resolution opposing the MARL transmission line, citing property loss, view-shed impacts and environmental concerns; commissioners said they are fact-finding and will consider community input.
Several residents urged the Monongalia County Commission on June 18 to oppose the proposed MARL high-voltage transmission project, arguing it would impose costs and environmental damage on West Virginia ratepayers and communities.
Judy Delagarza, who identified herself as a resident of the Stewardstown area, said, “We are vehemently opposed to the Marl project, the high voltage transmission line.” She told commissioners that West Virginia residents would “pay $440,000,000 for the 2 proposed transmission lines” and that towers of “110 to 200 foot” height would cross viewsheds and recreational lakes. She urged the commission to “join Preston and Hampshire Counties and pass a resolution to oppose the Morrill Transmission Line project.”
Delagarza also cited a state law—the West Virginia Power Generation and Consumption Act—and argued that data centers can build on-site generation, reducing the need for long transmission lines.
Commissioners said they have been receiving information about the project and are conducting fact-finding. Commissioner Sean said the commission has been “getting educated on the issue” and noted a public information meeting scheduled for June 29 where commissioners plan to gather more information. The commission did not vote or adopt a resolution at the meeting.
The public comments raised potential impacts that include property value loss, effects on recreation and wildlife habitat, and erosion/runoff concerns into Cheat Lake and other waterways. Delagarza listed several federal-designated lands she said the project would cross, including the Monongahela National Forest and the Appalachian Trail.
Commissioners emphasized they are gathering information and said they would consider a public stance after reviewing facts and attending informational sessions.
