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Va. 22065-1799. Please enclose two 29 cent stamps.
MASON GARDNER
Gainesville
Line Not
Needed
To the Editor:
I am writing to express my concern over the Rappahannock Electric Cooperative’s (REC) proposal to construct a high-voltage powerline with a 100 foot right-of-way from Rixeyville to Sperryville--some of the most pristine countryside in Rappahannock County. As a landowner and REC customer who is affected by the porposal, I am distrubed by the numerous reports that are circultaing on this issue. I urge other concerned citizens to demand an explanation from REC.
It is my understanding that REC claims to be responding to Rappahannock County customer’s complaints of frequent power outages by purchasing additional power from Potomac Edison’s Sperryville substation. To accomplish this, REC would destroy miles of scenic mountainsides and pasture land and lower property values by construction a high voltage transmission line. However, the powerline would not solve the real problem which is apparently the smaller distribution lines-not the main transmission lines. After all, the porposed transmission line would not porvide direct service to REC customers in Rappahannock County. It would take all of the power back to Culpeper County where the real benefits would be enjoyed.
While the customers’ right to reliable power is a serious issue which must be addressed, I question whether this is the best alternative. In talking with other concerned residents, I have learned that there are existing electric power corridors that could be utlized thus minimizing the environmental impact. Another alternative is for REC to purchase additional power from its current supplier, Virginia Power. A third alternative would be for Potomac Edison to supply REC’s Rappahannock County customers. "
I purchased a small farm in Rappahannock County, after years of searching, because of the over-* whelming beauty of this area. I am confident that all Rappahannock County residents share this appreciation. Now, we must be vigilant so that what we cherish will not be taken away.
I urge all Rappahannock residents interested in preserving our County’s natural heritage to get involved. Write REC and your elected officials to let them know that you do not want Rappahannock to suffer the same urbanization and over-development as our neighboring counties. Should this powerline proposal go though, REC’s and Culpeper County’s short term gain will certainly be Rappahannock County’s long term loss.
HAROLD J. CREEL, JR.
Woodville
See Letters, Page A-5
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