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Right of Way Agent Aaron Edwards, left, and Dawson PPD customer Elizabeth Lockhorn, of Ravenna, discuss an easement proposal.

Right of Way Agent Aaron Edwards, left, and Dawson PPD customer Elizabeth Lockhorn, of Ravenna, discuss an easement proposal.


When it comes to our distribution system, all work begins with an easement. The cooperation of our customers — like you — ensure that Dawson PPD’s electric system remains safe and reliable now and for generations to come.
“When we propose an easement, we’re looking for the best win-win situation with our customers,” said Dawson PPD Right of Way Agent Aaron Edwards. “We try to find a path that has the least amount of interference on a customer’s property while keeping our long-term plans in mind.”
Obtaining an easement from customers usually involves some frequently asked questions. Here are our top five questions as noted by Edwards:
Q: Will I receive compensation for this easement?
A: In short, no. Dawson PPD does not pay for distribution line easements. If easements are purchased, it will be reflected in the rates. Remember that Dawson PPD is a not-for-profit public entity, meaning that its rates reflect the cost of service. In addition, Dawson PPD works hard to ensure that the location of our equipment has a minimal impact on the value of the property.
Q: If I give you this easement, would you move this line for me?
A: Any time a line is moved for any reason, it costs Dawson PPD and ultimately, its customers. If Dawson PPD started trading for easements, the cost would again be reflected in the rates.
Q: Why can’t you bury the line? I’d rather not see the poles and wire.
A: Burying power lines is expensive. It costs three times as much to bury a line compared to building above ground. In its average lifespan of 50 years, the cost to own and maintain an underground line is about twice as much as overhead.
Q: How does this easement benefit me?
A: The benefits of an easement include:

  • The line is available for your future needs, as well as providing you with new lines, more capacity and more reliable service.
  • Guarantees you electric power for a new service. Without one, Dawson PPD cannot build to the destination.
  • Helps keep rates low. By allowing Dawson PPD to build on your property, the District avoids paying the cost of relocation of the poles and equipment when on state/county right of way.
  • Benefits your neighbor to receive electric power.
  • Protects your electric service for the future with legally binding documents.
  • Avoids unclear legal questions down the road like where exactly line may be built.

Q: Why is it necessary to put the power line a foot on my property?
A: By locating one foot on the property, Dawson PPD customers are protected from paying the cost of relocation if it becomes necessary to move the line at a later date. For example, if the county chooses to expand a road and needs to move the poles back, the cost to do this is reimbursed to Dawson PPD and saves the customers from the added expense.
Customers are asked to please keep their contact information updated with Dawson PPD, especially phone numbers, and to respond in a timely manner when contacted about an easement.
For additional questions regarding Dawson PPD’s easement practices, please contact Right of Way Agent Aaron Edwards at 308-324-2386 (office), 308-530-3478 (mobile) or aedwards (at) dawsonpower.com.
 
March 2018

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