Representatives of the NO765MN coalition appeared before the Caledonia City Council on August 10 to provide an update on the proposed Gopher to Badger 765kV transmission line.
Houston County landowner Charlie Wray and former Director of Houston County’s Public Health and Human Services John Pugleasa shared an informational sheet published by NO765MN titled, “Our Loss. Their Gain. No Need” during their presentation.
Both men introduced themselves by stating that they live near the proposed 765kV transmission line. Wray, who owns property about six miles south of Caledonia, said the proposed line would run 600 feet from his home. Pugleasa’s property is just outside the proposed right-of-way.
Wray discussed the need for the project and its cost, while Pugleasa addressed potential health concerns and the possible impact on tourism.
Wray suggested that the council consider submitting a specific comment during the next Minnesota Public Utilities Commission comment period in September regarding the Certificate of Need. He noted that the comment period will be short and that the dates for submitting comments have not yet been announced. NO765MN representatives offered to assist the council in preparing its comments.
“The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) has the last word,” Wray emphasized.
Pugleasa encouraged council members to ask Dairyland Power Cooperative and GridLiance Heartland hard questions, including questions about potential health-related impacts. He also stressed the importance of taking an objective look at the proposed project.
Councilor Bob Klug asked whether the transmission line could be placed underground. Wray responded that the Certificate of Need states that underground construction is not cost effective.
The representatives also told the council that NO765MN has a website and a Facebook page. The coalition also has a GoFundMe account, with donations going toward legal representation, community outreach, research, and expert testimony.
Council Business
The regular meeting was called to order at 6 p.m. in the city hall council chambers. Councilors Bob Klug, Amanda Ninneman, David Fitzpatrick and John Rauk were present along with Mayor Jeremy Leis.
Minutes from the July 27 regular city council meeting, and the consent agenda, which included payment of bills, were both approved unanimously.
During public comment, business owner Tracey Knutson asked about a new business that had been planning to move into the DeWitz building but has since “jumped ship.” Knutson asked if anyone knew why the business changed plans and wondered what the city council, Chamber of Commerce or Rotary could do to encourage the business to remain in Caledonia.
Knutson also brought attention to the historic mural in the Caledonia Post Office, calling it an asset that should be promoted. She noted that approximately 1,000 murals created through President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s New Deal programs remain in the country.
Councilor Rauk added to the discussion regarding the upkeep of the post office that the air conditioner is out.
City Clerk/Administrator Jake Dickson reported that the deadline to apply for the vacant city council and mayor positions was July 28. Two individuals applied for each of the two council seats, while the mayor candidate is running unopposed.
Business Briefs
•The council unanimously approved a Cooperative Construction Agreement with the Minnesota Department of Transportation through its Local Partnership Program
•The council unanimously approved awarding the contract for the North Warrior Avenue Extension project to the lowest bidder, Griffin Construction Company for a cost of $1,024,205.72.
•The council unanimously accepted a Radar Speed Feedback Sign Grant from the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The sign will be installed by the city on Highway 76.
•Overtime reports for the pay period ending August 2 were reviewed.
The board went into closed session under attorney-client privilege at 6:57 p.m. to discuss pending or threatened litigation with Wapasha Construction Company concerning the construction of the City’s Wastewater Treatment Facility. No action was taken following the closed session.
The regular meeting adjourned at 7:22 p.m.
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