SCE looking to mitigate Forest Drive encroachments
By Peggy Kelly
Santa Paula City Council
Published: March 05, 2010
Forest Drive in the Oaks is facing some changes due to overhead Southern California Edison power lines, the City Council learned at the March 1 meeting.
SCE Region Manager Nancy Williams told the council its major company transmission lines are governed by strict Public Utility Commission mandates, including not only vegetation clearing but also structures in the right of way corridor. Williams said new requirements are even stricter, the cost of creating new corridors prohibitive, and public safety issues such as fire remain a concern.
The 1.5-mile transmission corridor was established by SCE in 1929, and is a matter of public record disclosed to property owners. “Some things don’t work well under large transmission lines” and are therefore banned, but Williams said that over the years there have been encroachments into the right of way. There are 21 properties in the corridor where mitigation efforts have been taken “to benefit both of us.”
Williams said letters would soon be sent to affected property owners, and one-on-one meetings arranged to address the mitigation process. Some of the affected just might require brush clearing or creating access, but there are several of a more serious nature, such as spas and a structure that were constructed in the corridor.
Councilman Dr. Gabino Aguirre asked who would bear mitigation costs, and Williams said tree trimming costs are borne by the utility, but if a swimming pool, shed, spa or room addition is involved the cost would be the responsibility of the property owner. It is not believed that any oaks would have to be destroyed, said Williams, as the company will do everything possible to save trees.
Councilman Bob Gonzales said his concern is centered on the larger encroachments, such as a swimming pool that the city issued a permit for. Williams said at this point two spas and a swimming pool are of major concern, while other structures such as patio covers are not as serious. One house addition, she added, will probably be able to be mitigated.
The council asked to be updated on the progress of the issue.
|
