House Republican Press Release

April 17, 2006

Press Office: 860-240-8700

REP. KLARIDES, SEN. CRISCO HELP WOODBRIDGE RECOVER $25,000 FROM TRANSMISSION LINE CHALLENGE

HARTFORD – Representative Themis Klarides(R-Derby) and Senator Joseph Crisco (D-Woodbridge) have been successful in their efforts to help the Town of Woodbridge obtain $25,000 as part of the reimbursement from the Connecticut Siting Council over the challenge of the “Phase II Power Line” proceeding.  The Siting Council made some adjustments to the plan in Woodbridge, but it calls for the transmission lines to be installed overhead from Milford to Middletown.

The Town of Woodbridge spent approximately $250,000 to challenge plans by Connecticut Light & Power and United Illuminating Company to install high-voltage power lines through Woodbridge and other communities in the area. The Siting Council set aside a total of $25,000 to pay for legal costs for the entire project, but because none of the other towns applied, Woodbridge received the full amount.

Senator Crisco and Representative Klarides worked closely with local officials and residents, and urged the Siting Council to endorse a plan that called for the underground installation of the transmission lines.  They expressed concern about electromagnetic fields (EMF) and the impact the power lines would have schools, day care centers, playgrounds and residential areas.

“This funding is just a portion of the amount the Town of Woodbridge spent to challenge the transmission line proposal before the Siting Council, but I’m pleased we took this initiative to secure the funding,” said Senator Crisco.  “Even though we did not get the decision we were seeking, I’m confident the challenge did have a positive impact on efforts to inform the members on the council about the power line project and our concerns for the health and safety for the residents in our community.”

“These funds will help offset the cost to taxpayers,” said Representative Klarides.  “While Woodbridge and the other towns involved in the challenge did not prevail in the process, the challenge certainly has raised awareness on this issue, and has helped make important strides toward proper and safe power line installation.  I am happy that our work has resulted in Woodbridge being able to receive funds to reduce its financial burden.”