Local Resident Asks For Transparency In Process To Select Site For Back-up Transformer
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Dear Editor,
As you may or may not know, my daughter and I purchased the Old Jeff Davis School property at 817 S. Main St., in 2015.
It was an eyesore to say the least and took months of cleaning and preparation to make it look good again, as it is one of the first properties you see when entering the southern entrance to Water Valley on old Highway 7.
We cleaned it up. We cut the grass, and improved all the buildings and grounds; we reworked the inside and outside of the old school building.
We believe that the towns’ people appreciated it so much, as many people told us how they appreciated the new look.
We allowed it to be used for free for some community events, like the community band, the second chance alliance fundraisers, the sheriffs department parties, birthday parties, etc.
We also developed the Old School Theater which included the rebuilding of the auditorium stage for large music events and have hosted many local artists and national artists.
And we created “The Melon Vine” at that location for inside and outside events, wedding receptions and other people functions.
Why would the city want to put a substation, which is in the flood plain, in jeopardy, by changing the terrain (raising the ground level) and also installing an unattractive structure on the main street in such close proximity to a building?
I only know this public information, from the local newspaper
A. On March 20 Kagan updated the board on the back up transformer that will be connected to power from TVEPA substation and installed “near” Solero.
B. On October 19, 2022 they reported that the city of Water Valley was awarded some money from the Delta regional authority to fund the project under Mayor Donald Gray and he announced the grant in the October 4 board meeting 2022.
I have these questions:
Were there public meetings on the subject?
When were bids let to select an engineering company, and who is it?
Geographic Location and Environmental Considerations
As responsible citizens, the City of Water Valley should minimize environmental impact and plan for sustainable energy solutions. During the planning process, you must consider the substation’s geographic location and potential environmental concerns such as noise pollution, land degradation, and visual impact on surrounding areas. This helps select the best location for your substation while minimizing potential environmental conflicts.
Preparing for Substation Planning
Before starting the planning process, you should gather all relevant data and information that will guide your decisions.
This includes population and energy consumption data, infrastructure maps, environmental studies, and regulations related to substation construction.
It’s also crucial to identify key stakeholders early on in the process and involve them in discussions. This includes government agencies, local communities, landowners, utility companies, and other relevant parties. By engaging with stakeholders, you can address concerns and potential roadblocks before they escalate.
Site Selection and Land Acquisition
Selecting the right location for your substation is essential for its success and longevity. The ideal site should have suitable terrain, easy access to transmission lines, minimal environmental impact, and adequate space for future expansion. It also goes without saying that you should acquire the land legally and consider the interests of local communities and landowners.
Regulatory Compliance and Zoning
Power substations are subject to strict regulations, codes, and Water valley current zoning laws. Therefore, it’s essential to comply with all relevant rules and obtain necessary permits before construction. Failure to do so can result in delays, fines, or legal action. A planning authority such as the National Electrical Safety Code and North American Electric Reliability Corporation provide guidelines for substation design and construction.
Environmental Assessment and Impact Studies
Before commencing construction, you should conduct an environmental assessment and impact study. This evaluates the potential effects of your substation on air quality, water sources, noise levels, wildlife, and nearby communities. The goal is to identify any negative impacts and develop mitigation measures.
Communicating the Project to the Local Community
Before construction begins, it’s critical to inform the local community about the project. This can be done through town hall meetings, mailers, newspapers or other forms of communication. You should also provide information regarding the purpose and benefits of the substation and address any concerns that may arise.
Addressing Concerns and Gaining Support
During this process, it’s natural for community members to have concerns about the substation’s impact on their daily lives. It’s your job to listen to their concerns and address them in a timely and respectful manner. This shows that you value their input and are willing to work with them toward a mutually beneficial solution.
How was it approved and who approved the location of the substation?
Did you go to the Planning Commission with Specific detail plans?There are procedures to follow in the Water Valley Zoning Codes.
Do you have a permit from MDEQ and USDA to build here?
What is the scope of work detail?
Were there cost analyses performed based on potential locations?
How high does the elevation have to be raised? (To get it above the flood plain)?
The 817 S. Main Street property is listed by USDA in the flood plain map.
How does the site engineer plan to keep the water off of the adjacent property to the south of the location?
(elevation will be higher than the adjacent parking lot and building)
Currently, when it rains, the water stays in the grader ditch on the side of the road until it soaks in or evaporates; there is nowhere for the water to run off.
Are they meeting the requirements for the state of Mississippi to build a substation?
Were there any public meetings to alert the public about building a substation at that location?
Did the board of aldermen vote on this location?
Is there a quit claim deed from the adjacent property owner, or a 99 year lease, or easement on the property?
We spent hundreds of thousands of dollars cleaning up an eyesore at the southern entrance to Water Valley, (Jeff Davis school property) and now you want to build a substation right on Main Street?
What are the city and state rules and regulations to build a substation in the city limits?
What other locations were considered?
The county has property across from the hospital at the Health Department (Main Street and Highway 32 corner)
The county has land behind the Sheriff’s jail and office
The city owns the old Bondafoam property.
The city owns the old railroad bed behind the southern water tower.
We are just interested in the City having transparency to the public and the adjacent property owners on this issue.
Thanks for reading,
Eddie Foster
