Power Plant Tour

I went along with the PSC commissioners and others yesterday as they toured the proposed Turk power plant site. Representatives Randy Stewart and Steve Harrelson accompanied me. We did not go along on the afternoon tour of the adjacent hunting club land, even though I would have loved to have seen the property. By all accounts it is a beautiful place. Unfortunately, 99.9% of Arkansans will never be able to see the supposed untouched hand of Mother Nature here in Hempstead county. Nor will any of us experience the breathtaking views or notice the unlimited wildlife patrolling those woods and streams. In other words, the overwhelming majority of our citizens will never experience anything remotely close to what these wealthy landowners see on a regular basis. To the victors go the spoils, and they obviously have the means to control their little corner of the world. I have no problem with their station in life and what they can afford. My problem, along with most everyone around here, is their self-serving opposition to a project that will, without question, positively impact the lives of thousands of everyday people in Southwest Arkansas. Why is it not possible to have both? Are they so steeped in science and knowledge that they know this plant will decimate the landscape or leave any noticeable imprint on our environment? The answer is they don't know. They think it might. What they think and what they know, are in my opinion, miles apart. In fact, the PSC staff and the ADEQ have both used scientific and federal guidelines to recommend this project proceed on its merit; and that AEP/SWEPCO be held to the standards set forth. Hopefully the commissioners will see fit and grant them license to do so, and everyone, on both sides, will benefit from the results.