Letter to the editor – October 18, 2022

Dear editor,

The evening of Oct. 11, a meeting was held in the Allen County Courthouse to discuss the implications of a 345 kV electrical transmission line that would traverse Allen County on its way from Wolf Creek Nuclear Power Plant to Southwest Missouri. After some discussion the meeting became contentious and was adjourned. The attendees left the building and continued the discussion of the issues in small groups outside of the building.

My wife and I ended up discussing the issues with Brian Regehr and Dr. Fred Gardner (DVM). Dr. Gardner is from Anderson County and is a candidate for state representative in our district. 

As the four of us discussed several issues, to include safety as it is associated with the location of a 345 kV transmission line close to homes (and their occupants) as well as livestock in the immediate area, I was impressed with the methodical and equitable approach Dr. Gardner took as he reasoned possible solutions to the siting of the transmission line. Not flashy but thorough! Very well-reasoned and logical as he explained how he thought the issue could be resolved. There was no intent to skew the process one way or the other but he gave fair and impartial respect for both the concerns of the individuals whose property and lives would be affected by this new transmission line as well as the needs of the company that will be building and maintaining this facility to meet the electrical power needs of individuals at the far end of the line. Dr. Gardner was a good listener as others in the group made comments and observations as well as a contributor to the conversation! 

As our group “broke up” I told my wife that I believe Dr. Gardner is the kind of a state representative we need. Not necessarily someone who has all the answers but someone who listens well and reasons well and fairly. He has my vote on Nov. 8 and I encourage you to consider giving him yours also!

Harry Lee Jr.,

LaHarpe, Kan.

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