The newly formed EQUS rural electrification association plans to work with Mountain View County on a number of issues over the coming month, including seeking permission to utilize county road allowances for some future line routes, say officials.EQUS was formed as an amalgamation of the Central Alberta Rural Electrification Association (CAREA) and the South Alta Electrification Association following a membership vote late last month.EQUA will provide electrical service to about 11,000 rural customers, including in Mountain View and Red Deer counties.During last week's MVC council meeting, EQUS spokespersons Pat Bourne and Glen Fox gave an information update to council, including information on the new organization and some of it plans.Bourne, who is the general manager of the CAREA, said the new association wants to continue to have a good working relationship with MVC.“As new lines are built within our area we will be working with the county to get permission and approval to use county rights-of-way,” said Bourne.“We've been doing that already and the new amalgamation won't be affected by that.”Utilizing county road allowances for new lines will help reduce the “footprint” on consumers' lands, she said.In a note presented to council during last week's meeting, association officials added: “One matter that is foremost in many minds is landowner rights. CAREA would like to work with the counties, which we provide service within, to utilize county road allowances to accommodate construction of new and modified line routes.“CAREA also wants to ensure that county elected officials, and personnel, are aware of our mandate to provide service to any consumer within our service area that requires electricity distribution.”Bourne also told council that the new association will continue to work with municipalities to ensure proper vegetation control near lines and infrastructure.Following the presentation, Coun. Kevin Good congratulated officials on the formation of EQUS.
