AEP representatives told the DeKalb County Drainage Board on Nov. 20 they seek to rebuild and relocate power lines along County Road 68, moving lines out of farmer fields and closer to the roadside for easier maintenance. Chad Trowbridge, speaking for AEP, described the work on the current project segment between County Road 35 and County Road 39 and said the work is part of a phased series that will ultimately reach County Road 45.

"So we are looking to rebuild some full lines along County Road 68," Trowbridge said. He added the project will help maintain lines and reduce field impacts while noting the work is being broken into separate projects and that AEP expects to return to the board with additional permits as later phases proceed.

Surveyor's office staff asked AEP to contact county inspectors and to "hide your vac" (notify field crews and locate tiles) before placing poles so installers do not damage drainage tiles. The board approved the utility permit with the surveyor's recommendation.

Board members noted the permit should be coordinated with the county highway department and the surveyor's office to ensure the new pole locations do not conflict with tiles or county infrastructure.