Local business leaders along with the Marathon County Chamber of Commerce are speaking out.
"The Wausau Marathon County Chamber of Commerce strongly urges the board to grant easement through nine mile recreation area," says Robert Wagman, president Wausau Carriers, Inc.
The goal is to urge county board members to approve the American Transmission Company's proposed Arrow-head Weston high voltage power line. The group says the line can be built, while still recognizing the concerns of residents. Business leaders also stress the importance of the power line for community operations.
"We, like many manufacturers, rely on reliable, uninterruptible power supply," says Alan Verploegh, a chamber member.
Those opposing the line, including the organization SOUL, say the county board should consider the concerns of the citizens in the community. The group also says the board shouldn't back down under what it sees as corporate threats and wishes.
"If the county board allows Arrow-head Weston to go through knowing it's wrong, what's to give them anymore strength to stop a second proposal, " says Tom Kreager, SOUL president.
A final vote on an agreement to allow the ATC line through our area will most likely take place August 24.
