Minnesota Energy Connection High Voltage Power Line Project

If your property is in the path of the Minnesota Energy Connection 174-mile project, you need to speak with an experienced attorney as your property rights will be significantly impacted. Property owners of land on which high voltage transmission lines (HVTL) will be erected will be entitled to monetary damages. These damages may include compensation for land that is taken for an easement and damages to the remainder your property, called severance damages. The landowner may also be entitled to construction-related interference or damages as a result of construction during the project. This can include interference with driveways, soil compaction, and other related damages.

Minnesota law also allows certain landowners that have power lines on their property to decide if they want the utility company to buy all or any amount of their contiguous commercially viable property. This is referred to as the “Buy The Farm” election. It is not required that you actually have a farm for this provision to apply. There are strict deadlines that must be followed if making this election. Property owners should consult an experienced attorney soon after receiving an offer from the power company and should not sign anything until they have consulted a lawyer. Attorney Mike Rajkowski at Evenson Decker, P.A. is an experienced lawyer with more than 36 years of experience and has successfully argued two “By The Farm” cases before the Minnesota Supreme Court.

It is important to work with an attorney experienced in eminent domain matters who can assist landowners through the entire process from hiring an appraiser to final resolution. Minnesota law allows landowners to obtain reimbursement of at least $3,000.00 for appraisal fees in cases involving high voltage transmission lines.
The power company will be taking a permanent easement. Power lines and poles can be 150 – 180 feet high. The power project will have a permanent detrimental impact on your land. You need an experienced attorney who can work on your behalf, so you receive just compensation.

Call Mike at 320-253-7130 or send an email inquiry to schedule a consultation.