The likely construction of the Newton-Gillespie transmission line linking Fredericksburg and Killeen – cutting through Llano and Burnet counties – isn’t all bad, Burnet County commissioners said Thursday.

“It could be a lot worse…This is probably the least intrusive” route, said Commissioner Bill Neve, who has put the issue on the agenda for Commissioner’s Court next Tuesday.

“After a preliminary look I don’t see an issue but it’s early in this game,” said Commissioner Russell Graeter, who has actively been working against the construction of a different power line in his precinct.

The Newton- Gillespie line would shoot up northeast from Fredericksburg, dissecting Llano County before making a hard right north of Lake Buchanan into Burnet County Precinct 1. It would then hold a straight line going through Naruna to US 281. Finally it would veer northeast toward Kempner, clipping Precinct 2 near Mesquite Creek.

“I don’t know of any subdivisions in that area it would affect. It’s mostly ranch land. Only a very small portion clips precinct two,” Graeter said. “At this point I don’t have an issue with it .But tomorrow could be a different story. I could have some constituents call me.”

Neve declined to comment further until he had discussed it with community members.

For the full story, see The Highlander.