PPL appeals PUC ruling in eminent domain case
“In their Dec. 19 recommendation to deny the applications, administrative law judges David A. Salapa and Joel H. Cheskis stated, “In summary, PPL has failed to satisfy its burden to demonstrate that the transmission line and the Meiserville substation are necessary for the service, accommodation, convenience or safety of the public. We recommend, therefore, that PPL’s applications be rejected.”
In a 45-page document containing PPL’s exceptions, attorneys for the utility state, “PPL Electric Utilities Corporation respectfully requests that the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission finds that the service to be provided through the exercise of the power of eminent domain is necessary or proper for the service, accommodation, convenience or safety of the public and approve PPL Electric Utility Corporation’s condemnation applications.”
In addition to the Northumberland County properties, PPL filed applications for eminent domain for one property in Perry Township, Snyder County, and another in Susquehanna Township, Juniata County.
PPL filed the applications in October 2011. Shortly thereafter, protests and objections were filed against PPL’s applications by all nine property owners.
More than 20 people testified in defense of the landowners at a public hearing conducted by the PUC on March 7 at Hickory Corners and Community Fire Company. At the time, PPL had already reached a financial settlement with 45 of 54 residents affected by the proposed line.”
Gilger, Mark. newsitem.com 19 January 2013.