Council raps decision to shelve new hydro line

by Mike Thibodeau

special/ Leamington Post

There may be a downturn in some areas but greenhouse construction keeps on growing and it needs hydro.

And that's one of several reasons Leamington council will press Hydro One to complete a second transmission line here.

Several years ago Hydro One completed the studies and detailed the route for a new line and transformer station into the northeast corner of the urban area.

Town council was told last week the proposal has now been "indefinitely shelved" in a report from its economic development officer, Anne Miskovsky.

"....A lack of demand in the region due to a decline in the economy," she said, of Hydro One's reasoning.

Hydro supply in the area "is becoming a serious matter," said Mayor John Paterson.

He indicated there are issues with the old transformer station in Kingsville and "our (supply) system is so old," he added.

Deputy Mayor Charlie Wright said it is difficult to push development in many sectors "without and adequate and dependable power supply."

Council agreed with Councillor Rick Atkin that the town should also seek the support of Essex County government.

Hydro One initiated a proposal for a new transmission line and station here about five years ago and in May 2010, got approval from the ministry of environment to proceed and was scheduled to be in service in 2013.  To read more go to www.leamingtonpostandshopper.com,