Dawn-Euphemia concerned about tax losses, property impacts tied to Hydro One line

Municipal leaders in Dawn-Euphemia say compensation agreements and road repair protections must be addressed before Hydro One’s transmission project moves ahead.

Hydro One has formally applied to the Ontario Energy Board for approval to construct the proposed Longwood to Lakeshore transmission line, a major infrastructure project that would run through parts of Lambton County and Chatham-Kent.

The project would increase transmission capacity from 115 kilovolts to 232 kilovolts and deliver approximately 400 megawatts of electricity to meet growing energy demand in southwestern Ontario.

While Hydro One says the route follows existing corridors for much of its length and was selected to minimize impacts on environmentally sensitive areas, the proposal has sparked concern among residents in Dawn-Euphemia.

The planned route would pass directly over several homes and barns in the township and cut through farmland and woodlots. Some affected homeowners are expected to be bought out and relocated as Hydro One continues negotiations with individual landowners.

Dawn-Euphemia Mayor Al Broad says the municipality is also seeking compensation from Hydro One for the long-term loss of property tax revenue tied to homes that would be demolished as part of the project.

Broad said the township has raised concerns about financial impacts, road damage from construction traffic, and the need for infrastructure agreements before construction begins. He noted the municipality has not yet finalized discussions with Hydro One officials regarding compensation.

The township is expected to seek a community investment arrangement similar to agreements reached in other municipalities affected by previous transmission projects in southern Ontario.

It is not yet known when the Ontario Energy Board will make its decision on Hydro One’s application.