Public input matters
At a recent Environment, Agriculture and Natural Resources meeting, Resolution 577 was on the agenda. This resolution urges the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to require analysis of the high-capacity transmission line, the Cardinal-Hickory Creek Project, and consider alternative solutions. Because this is such a contentious issue, we held the meeting at Wisconsin Heights High School.
Even though the location was a much farther distance than our regular meetings, I was grateful for the opportunity to spend time driving though such a beautiful part of Dane County. It is truly stunning.
When the meeting began, there were about 50 people in the audience. Nearly all of them spoke or registered in support of the resolution. They spoke about their family farms and of the beauty surrounding their homes. They spoke from their hearts, asking for help in protecting the natural resources in the area.
For two full hours, people sat in the room, listening to others as well as sharing their own thoughts. They set aside the need for dinner and other evening responsibilities. They put their families on hold in order to come out and speak about something they care so much about.
I was so honored to listen to the words of the people who came to speak that evening. So often there are no members of the public in attendance at meetings.
This resolution passed with strong support. I am not certain yet if local counties will be able to keep this transmission line from being built, but certainly the first essential step is neighbors coming together and making their voices heard.
Please feel free to contact me with any concerns or issues. I can be reached at 335-6827 or ritt.michele@countyofdane.com.
