From the Blue Mountain Eagle. http://eastoregonian.com/main.asp?SectionID=14&SubSectionID=50&ArticleID=100906
Message to Idaho Power: slow down.
Grant County only recently was drawn into the fray over a new mega-transmission line, and we deserve time to sort out our concerns and document our stand.
Not decades, but a reasonable amount of time. At least as much time as the utility gave to our neighbors to the east - the ones who said "put it in Grant County." That little bit of NIMBY aside, it's only fair to allow us to catch our breath before the decision is made for us.
Idaho Power officials have suggested Grant County has always been in the loop for this project. They say we were included when they divvied up the territory for their north, central and south project advisory teams.
That suggestion begs credulity, however, as Idaho Power's original route proposal was down Interstate 84. Neither the publicity for the team meetings nor the Idaho Power Web site gave any hint a route could touch Grant County. It's not reasonable to suggest Grant County residents would turn out in droves for meetings in Baker City and Ontario that ostensibly had nothing to do with Grant County.
Yet here we are today, being asked to chart a route for this monstrosity through our county. (And do it quick - so Idaho Power can present its own recommendation in January or February. . . )
Forgive some of us in Grant County for feeling we haven't been given a chance to decline the devil's invitation. Idaho Power already has drawn up our dance card and we are left to wonder whether the consequences will be worse if we take to the floor or sit this one out . . .
We want that time, Idaho Power. It's only fair.
Note to Grant County: "Fair" and "Idaho Power" are mutually exclusive concepts. They've already thrown out three Project Advisory Team proposed routes through Idaho with no valid reason why. If you live in Idaho, money and political clout have their advantages.
