Castle project route approved

BY EMMA CAMPBELL

Examiner Intern

PLANTERSVILLE Entergy representative, Melissa Bochat, announced during the Plantersville City Council meeting the proposed route for the Castle project was approved.

This project will construct a new distribution substation that cuts into the existing Grimes to Ponderosa 230 kV line. The new substation will be located south of Plantersville. The project addresses future load growth and reliability issues south of Plantersville near SH 249. Letters were sent out, prior to the approval, to landowners whom this route may affect. Since this was just approved, construction isn’t projected to start until next year.

Entergy Rate Case Ordinance

Bochat also talked about the rate increase for energy usage in the community. She asked that council decline the rate that was proposed. This is due to the fact that Entergy believes it unfair for some cities to have higher rates than others. Council voted to decline the increase with a unanimous vote.

Entergy Notice of Intent for Power Through Distributive Generation Filing Entergy is starting a project in efforts to benefit communities throughout Grimes County. This includes putting micro backup generators throughout the community in case of emergencies. The location of these generators would be in a place with natural gas, on the land of those who qualify and choose to partake. If the qualifications are met and the customer opts in, the cost of the generator will be split between Entergy and the customer. Benefits of this would be first priority in usage of energy during an emergency. It was stated in the meeting that Plantersville does not contain any natural gas, but this technology would benefit surrounding communities, grocery stores, schools, hospitals, etc. that Plantersville residents use or frequent.

Subdivision Rules and Regulations Ordinance

After public discourse, and consideration from council, they moved forward to accept the motion to adopt the Grimes Subdivision Rules and Regulations Ordinance for Plantersville. This item has been a hot topic in the community due to The Cedars subdivision making way.

Budget Public Hearing

A budget planning public hearing is set for Sept. 19. During the meeting, the budget will be submitted for approval. For more information about Plantersville visit, www.cityofplantersville. net.