Today, I was sent a copy of an article posted on Jefferson County's Listener web group by fellow fair booth resident Ed Dunleavy that's worth sharing. Thanks for the kind words of support, Ed!
After accumulating information during the last several years regarding the Potomac Appalachian Transmission Highline (PATH), I attended several informational meetings recently. As many County residents know, PJM, a regional electric transmission operator, created the PATH project and designed it to supply electricity to the NY- NJ market from coal-fired generating plants in the Ohio Valley. After researching this project, I've reached the opinion that the proponents of PATH should be embarrassed by this project. It is travesty being foisted upon the residents of Jefferson County solely to satisfy their corporate greed.
The economic rationale for PATH is that east coast residents will pay higher rates for the electricity of Allegheny Energy and American Electric Power, two of the partners in PATH. However, the cost of PATH, which is estimated to be $2.1 billion will be paid for by ratepayers in 13 states including West Virginia, while none of the electricity will be delivered to WV ratepayers.
The proposed route for the PATH transmission line has been changed three times and may be changed again; so if you haven't been interested in this project; watch out - because it could pass by your home eventually. Its present proposed route will deface and despoil the County's landscape and many of its historical sites and homes.
In my opinion, PATH is a pending disaster for the residents of Jefferson County. Luckily, a coalition of Jefferson County landowners formed StopPATH WV, Inc. to intervene before the WV Public Service Commission. This group of citizens should be congratulated for their tireless dedication to both keeping the public informed and continuing the effort to stop PATH. Last week, I spoke with a number of this organization's members at the Jefferson County Fair. I urge all Jefferson County residents to visit their website at: www.stoppathwv.com. The website provides information needed to understand PATH and its potential to ruin the County's landscape. I also urge County residents to join in the effort to stop PATH, sign their petition, and donate to the cause.
Ed Dunleavy
Independent Candidate for
Jefferson County Commission
www.Dunleavy4CC.com