By Erin Wadsworth

October 10, 2006 | NORTH LOGAN -- A decision made by the City Council on Oct. 5 will allow a power station to be built near 450 E. 2100 North.

Rocky Mountain Power purchased the 2.5-acre area, zoned for residential housing, from Utah State University. A large wall and functional landscaping, as proposed, will surround the entire area obtained for the power station.

Concerns about residents being inconvenienced by a humming noise from the power station and where the distribution of line connection would be occupied much of the discussion. Rocky Mountain Power representatives assured the council that the sound emitted from the station would be minimal, and most power lines would follow lines currently in place.

Also the council wanted to ensure that landscaping, including extensive tree planting, would be put into motion as soon as possible in order to create an early barrier around the site. Councilman Mark Williams suggested the use of a certain type of tree limiting noise around the area. Making the station as non-obtrusive to the public as possible was a main concern of the council.

"We just want to hide that baby," said Councilman Trent Wentz.

This substation will be built on a piece of land surrounded mostly by fields and there is quite a bit of distance from the nearest houses. Future builders can now make informed decisions about construction near the site.

With no legal need for public hearings on the matter, the council approved the permit allowing Rocky Mountain Power to begin the project, with one opposing vote by Councilman Steve Soulier.

Power company representatives assured the council that the power station will not be up and running until June 2008 or later.

Other items on the agenda for the Oct. 5 meeting included discussion on proposed draft chances on the land-use ordinance. In addition, praises from Councilwoman Elaine Nelson were heard concerning the excellent work provided by the Planning Commission on the Land-Use Element.

MS
MS