Opponents of Huge Alta. Power Line Tape Mouths Shut at Courthouse Rally

RIMBEY, Alta. (CP) – About 40 demonstrators taped their mouths shut to protest a decision to close hearings to the public on a massive proposed power line to be built between Edmonton and Calgary.

The demonstrators, who rallied Thursday on the steps of the central Alberta town’s courthouse, are angry that the public can only watch the regulatory proceedings via video link at the local community centre.

The Alberta Energy and Utilities Board closed the hearings after incidents in April in Red Deer, Alta., where board officials say they were either physically confronted by angry landowners, or felt physically threatened.

Rimbey-area land owner Joe Anglin headed up the protest, and says it’s not fair that the entire process has been closed to the public because of the actions of a few people.

Landowners have argued the proposed 500-kilovolt line is not necessary and could devalue their property.

They also have complained their concerns have not been heard through the regulatory process.