Richland County board asks TransSource for details on proposed 765‑kV transmission line after residents’ concerns

The Richland County Board of Supervisors voted unanimously to adopt a resolution requesting information from TransSource LLC about a proposed 765‑kilovolt transmission line after multiple residents urged the board to press for details.

Residents raised concerns during the public‑comment period and during committee discussion about health and safety, property impacts and local planning. "I have a lot of concerns about the impact that this could have in our community," resident Sarah Hunt said, asking the board to adopt the information‑request resolution.

Why it matters: The proposed transmission project — described in committee discussion as larger than any line built in Wisconsin to date — would cross rural townships and could affect land use, agriculture, habitat and future development. Board members said they wanted TransSource to answer specific questions before public input periods begin so residents and officials can be better prepared.

Committee background and debate: A Natural Resources committee member summarized regional context for the board, saying MISO has proposed new transmission lines across the Driftless area and south toward Illinois and that "this would be larger than any transmission line that's been done in Wisconsin to date." Committee members and supervisors also noted that neighboring counties have passed similar resolutions and townships have asked for information.

Board amendment and adoption: Supervisors amended the resolution to change the requested presentation date to May 19 so staff and the company would have more time to prepare; the amendment passed and the amended resolution was adopted by voice vote. Several supervisors emphasized that the measure is a request for information, not a policy position for or against the project. "We need to know all we can know," one supervisor said in explaining support for the request.

What the resolution asks for: The board asked TransSource to provide written materials, electronic information or an in‑person presentation addressing a multi‑item list of questions outlined by the Natural Resources committee (the clerk read that the list contains multiple specific items). The resolution requires the information to be provided to the board before the revised May 19 date.

Next steps: County staff will notify TransSource of the board's request and schedule follow‑up once the company responds. The board and public will have the opportunity to hear specific plans and ask questions at that meeting if TransSource accepts the invitation.

The board adopted the resolution as amended; no formal vote tally by name was recorded in the transcript.