Commission forms subcommittee to review proposed 765 kV transmission line after public concern

Brookings County commissioners voted on April 21 to create a subcommittee to review the proposed 765‑kilovolt transmission line project and to solicit public applications for membership. County development director Richard (surname given in transcript) said the subcommittee will follow the same application and selection process used for the earlier pipeline review, include Planning and Zoning commissioners, county commissioners, township representation, and potentially industry representatives appointed at the director’s discretion.

The motion opened the application period immediately and set a schedule to close applications on May 12, with discussion and appointments at the May 19 meeting. Commissioner Richard described outreach to townships and emergency services for prior subcommittees and said that model would be followed again.

During public comment and the subcommittee discussion landowner David Larson had urged attention to setbacks and potential health concerns; he had asked the commission earlier in the meeting to adopt a 2,000‑foot setback for a proposed line near residences. Xcel Energy representative Tim Rogers told the commission he was available to help technical briefings and offered to participate: "I'm offering to be on the subcommittee," he said. (Tim Rogers)

The motion passed by voice vote. The subcommittee is expected to hold public meetings, receive comment, and advise the commission; county staff will open the application process and return with recommended membership at the scheduled meeting in May.