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Residents urge 2,000-foot setback, warn of land-value and farming impacts from 765 kV proposal
Summary
Public commenters at the June 10 meeting asked the advisory committee to consider a 2,000-foot setback for 765 kV lines and raised concerns that poles and right-of-way could reduce land values, remove acreage from food production and alter the landscape.
Several residents testified June 10 that they are concerned about the local impacts of a proposed 765 kV transmission line. Steve January, a Deuel County resident who submitted an article for the committee's review, said that "Deuel County had passed a 2,000-foot setback for 765kV lines from occupied residences" and asked the advisory members to review the material once received.
Bill Landsman, identified in the minutes as a Brookings County farmer and appraiser, said his research shows effects on land values and cash rent, noting he had "found them to be less." Joyce Caugherty, a 40-year resident of the northwest corner of Lake Hendricks, listed specific worries: the closeness to property, the current look of the landscape with existing wind towers and lines, loss of acres from food production, concerns about land-acquisition sales prior to required permissions, and the use of South Dakota land for Minnesota service.
Sue Engelmann urged members to consider matching Deuel County's setback policy for high-voltage lines. The committee did not take immediate policy action; Robert Hill directed members to review the Brookings County Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Ordinance and said materials would be posted on the county website for consideration at future meetings.
