The editorial in the April 11 Renton Reporter about overhead power lines by Brian Beckley (Editor’s Note: Here’s the line in the sand: City needs power) could hardly have been more biased or irresponsible. One may wonder what the real motives behind this editorial were.
Serious illnesses that can result from exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF) from overhead power lines were not mentioned and are obviously of no concern. Interference with implanted pacemakers and defibrillators is apparently a non-issue. Poor air quality in the form of charged particles at power lines is of no interest. Breathing in such particles has been linked to an increase in free radicals which in turn has been linked to many adverse health effects including cancer. If the particles themselves are hazardous pollutants from engine exhaust, smoke or industry then the risk is potentially greater.
It is foolish to stick the head in the sand when there is plenty of evidence about the harmful effects of EMF. It reminds of people who denied that smoking can cause cancer while the controversy went on for decades. If EMF was so harmless as PSE and Mr. Beckley seem to believe, then the EPA would not have recommendations on how to reduce exposure to EMF, the EU would not have regulations to minimize and limit exposure to EMF, and 29 forward-looking nations and several states in the US would not have regulations and guidelines about limiting exposure to EMF.
PSE proposal “M” runs in the same easement as the 50 year old fuel pipelines. Replacing the current H-poles with twice as tall monopoles is calling for an accident to happen during construction. An accident in a dense residential area would be catastrophic. Again, no concern, and not mentioned.
Increased power line noise from 230 kV is of no concern either. Humidity amplifies PLN. This area is among the highest average humidity zones in the U.S.
The proposed twice as tall and ugly poles for line “M” will stand out more and also destroy the views of the Cascades and Mount Rainier from more homes. That, plus the health effects of EMF and increased power line noise will impact property values, and not only for those properties that are closest to the power line. Overhead power lines do not belong in residential areas any more than sewage treatment plants or waste depositories for nuclear power plants.
To replace the current power lines with 230 kV lines on taller poles is the worst thing that PSE, a company-owned by foreign interests, could do to our quality of life and property values. It must not be allowed to happen. There are other much more community-friendly solutions.
Andy Roosme, Newcastle
