State Representative Tim Barhorst is voicing his opposition to the proposed Grid Growth Venture 765-kilovolt transmission project, which would be routed through parts of Champaign and Shelby counties.
Barhorst, who represents Ohio’s 85th House District, sent a letter to the Ohio Power Siting Board expressing concerns about the project’s potential impacts on local communities and landowners.
In the letter addressed to Chairwoman French and members of the Ohio Power Siting Board, Barhorst said conversations with constituents, county commissioners and other local officials have made it clear that the project does not have support in the communities that could be affected.
Residents have raised concerns about the potential long-term impacts on property values, land use, agricultural operations and rural communities.
Barhorst said local officials have also expressed concerns that the proposed transmission route could place significant burdens on landowners without providing meaningful local benefits.
He said constituents have asked him to oppose the project and bring their concerns before the state during the approval process.
Barhorst also requested that Grid Growth Venture conduct a detailed review of Federal Aviation Administration airspace surrounding Champaign and Shelby counties.
According to Barhorst, several flight paths operate between Rickenbacker International Airport, Shelby County Airport and Grimes Municipal Airport, as well as between Springfield-Beckley Municipal Airport and airports in the two counties.
He said the area is also part of a structured military airspace network used for low-altitude training routes.
Barhorst expressed concern that the proposed transmission lines could alter the low-altitude operating environment for military aircraft, particularly during night operations, tactical flights and advanced testing.
The state representative said those potential impacts should be fully evaluated before the project receives approval.
Barhorst also raised concerns about Shelby County’s public safety communications infrastructure.
He said the county’s emergency communications system, built in 2024, relies on modern technology and that its reliability should be considered as part of the transmission project review.
Specifically, Barhorst requested an evaluation of whether the proposed transmission structures and facilities could obstruct or interfere with the county’s microwave communications network.
Barhorst concluded his letter by reiterating his opposition to the Grid Growth Venture project.
He said the opposition from local officials and residents demonstrates that the project does not have the support of many of those who would be most directly affected.
Barhorst represents Champaign County, Shelby County and part of Logan County in the Ohio House of Representatives.
