Cities Index.
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program

City Council and Authorities Concurrent
November 12, 2024

Document
Final Mitigated Negative Declaration and Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
Meeting
November 12, 2024
Body
City Council and Authorities Concurrent
Pages
174
Original file
46.6 MB
Text extracted from the city's file for reading and search. Open the original on santaclara.legistar1.com. That file is the official record.

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the H-321
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public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

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3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Cipson Jose <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 10:31 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

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Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet. These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments-and- agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf Some other questions around the EMF study map shared during presentation on Aug 22 2024:

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. ⁠Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. ⁠What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. ⁠Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. ⁠What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then?

7. ⁠Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?
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8. ⁠Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. ⁠Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

10. Why does the electric pole structure proposed have wider diameter at the top? Can you share the design of the top of the pole ? Can it be extended by adding another section by bolting, welding or any other method? If so, what extra voltage can be added to the line?

11. ⁠what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

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Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

And this is what is included on the report:

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Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Thanks
Cipson

H-329
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Om Shankar <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 10:28 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns and Objections Regarding the NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

Dear Officials,
We, the residents of Santa Clara, strongly object to the proposed "NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project" due to the following critical concerns:

1. Health Hazards Due to EMF Exposure:

The draft report has ignored the potential health risks associated with electromagnetic fields (EMF) from high-voltage power lines, which will be placed dangerously close to residential areas. The study fails to involve any health-focused agencies and lacks independent, third-party reviews that consider the impact on human health.

Incompetent Approach:
• The EMF section was added only after residents raised concerns and is copied from an older, unrelated report, showcasing a lack of due diligence.
• The report downplays the risks by comparing EMF levels from household appliances, which is misleading and inappropriate.

2. Inadequate Study on Property Values:

The report fails to consider the negative impact on property values due to the proximity of these high- power lines. Real estate values in the area are expected to decline significantly, affecting over 1,000 residences and causing considerable financial loss to homeowners.

Incompetent Approach:
• The selection of Route A appears to be based solely on cost savings for the city, with no consideration for the economic impact on residents.
• The report uses misleading images from other areas, not from Lafayette St, and outdated information, leading to distrust and further concern among the community.

3. Corona Effect and Induced Current Risks:

The proximity of the proposed lines to existing railway tracks increases the risk of corona discharge and induced currents, posing a severe hazard to public safety.

Incompetent Approach:
• The report merely describes the corona effect without addressing its potential dangers, especially given the close proximity to railway lines.

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• There is a clear negligence in the design considerations, as no corona rings are proposed for the 115kV lines, ignoring the risks to public safety.

Conclusion and Demands:

Given the serious shortcomings in the current report, we demand a more thorough investigation into alternative routes and a comprehensive study that prioritizes human health and safety. Until these concerns are adequately addressed, we cannot support the continuation of this project.

Additional References:

1. EMF and Health Concerns

2. Real Estate Impact
Sincerely,
Omshankar
Santa Clara Resident

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Om Shankar <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 10:26 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding SVP NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

Dear Concerned Parties,

As residents of Santa Clara affected by the proposed NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project, we have reviewed the draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration and attended related meetings. We have significant concerns about the project's potential impacts on our community:

1. Health Concerns:
o The CEQA report lacks a comprehensive study on EMF effects on human health. o We request involvement of health-focused agencies and independent studies. o Existing studies suggest potential health risks, especially for children, at EMF levels similar to those projected for this project.

2. EMF Study Inadequacies:
o The EMF section appears to be copied from an older, unrelated project. o We question the methodology and accuracy of the EMF measurements presented. o We request more detailed, project-specific EMF studies and transparent data.

3. Property Value Impact:
o High-voltage transmission lines are likely to decrease property values in the area. o This could result in significant financial losses for homeowners and reduced tax revenue for the city.

4. Safety Concerns:
o The proximity of the transmission lines to the railway raises concerns about induced currents and potential accidents.
o The report does not adequately address these safety issues for a 115kV line.

5. Environmental and Aesthetic Impact:
o Increased noise levels during and after construction. o Loss of aesthetic appeal for the neighborhood.

6. Project Approval Process:
o We believe the current CEQA scope is insufficient to address all community concerns. o We request a more comprehensive review process that includes health, economic, and long-term sustainability factors.

7. Inappropriate and Incompetent Approaches by Agencies:
o The draft report contains sections copied from unrelated, older reports, indicating a lack of proper analysis for this specific project.
o Misleading visual representations in the report, such as using images that do not accurately represent the affected areas.
o Inadequate consideration of alternative routes, with the selection of Route A appearing to be based primarily on cost, disregarding other crucial factors. o Failure to address the cumulative effects of the project, including potential future electrification of nearby rail lines.
o Lack of transparency in EMF studies and calculations, raising doubts about the accuracy and completeness of the presented data.

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In light of these concerns, we strongly urge you to:

1. Conduct more thorough, independent studies on EMF impacts on human health.

2. Re-evaluate alternative routes and underground options.

3. Provide more transparent and detailed information about the project's potential impacts.

4. Consider the long-term economic and health effects on the community.

5. Rectify the inadequacies in the current report and conduct a new, comprehensive analysis specific to this project.

6. Engage in more meaningful community consultation and address residents' concerns transparently.

We cannot support this project moving forward without satisfactory resolutions to these concerns. We request a detailed response addressing each point raised and a clear plan for rectifying the identified issues in the project planning and approval process.

Sincerely, Oṁ Shankar Tiwari on behalf of
Concerned Residents of Santa Clara

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Amit Thakkar <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 9:46 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To: Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
H-334
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There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf Some other questions around the EMF study map shared during presentation on Aug 22 2024:

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. ⁠Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. ⁠What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. ⁠Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. ⁠What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then?

7. ⁠Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. ⁠Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. ⁠Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

10. Why does the electric pole structure proposed have wider diameter at the top? Can you share the design of the top of the pole ? Can it be extended by adding another section by bolting, welding or any other method? If so, what extra voltage can be added to the line?

11. ⁠what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect H-335
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can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-336
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And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations H-337
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of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

Thank you

Amit Thakkar
1857 Silva Place
Santa Clara, CA 95054

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Lenny Le <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 9:28 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Allie Jackman Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-339
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Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet. These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments-and- agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf Some other questions around the EMF study map shared during presentation on Aug 22 2024:

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. ⁠Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. ⁠What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. ⁠Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. ⁠What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then?

7. ⁠Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?
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8. ⁠Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. ⁠Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

10. Why does the electric pole structure proposed have wider diameter at the top? Can you share the design of the top of the pole ? Can it be extended by adding another section by bolting, welding or any other method? If so, what extra voltage can be added to the line?

11. ⁠what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

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Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ H-342
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These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: srinivas dangeti <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 8:53 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-345
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf Some other questions around the EMF study map shared during presentation on Aug 22 2024:

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. ⁠Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. ⁠What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. ⁠Can you provide the same for Route options B and C?

6. ⁠What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then? H-346
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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7. ⁠Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. ⁠Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. ⁠Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

10. Why does the electric pole structure proposed have wider diameter at the top? Can you share the design of the top of the pole ? Can it be extended by adding another section by bolting, welding or any other method? If so, what extra voltage can be added to the line?

11. ⁠what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the H-347
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-348
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And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

H-349
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Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thanks,
DS

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: venkat patchigolla <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 8:04 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

Hi All,

Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

H-351
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet. These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments-and- agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf Some other questions around the EMF study map shared during presentation on Aug 22 2024:

1. Have you conducted an existing EMF study to identify the current value of the community ?

2. Are your emf study values based on the cumulative, or interference of existing emf and potential emf.

3. ⁠Emf value was calculated based on existing studies. What was the delta between mathematical modeling and actual values ( from existing structures).

4. ⁠What is the delta between underground and overhead structures’ emf values?

5. ⁠Can you provide the same for Route options B and C? H-352
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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6. ⁠What happens when electrification of rail lines happens- as this is already planned for the future? Have you potentially considered the cumulative EMF effect in coexistence of the high power lines and with railway lines’ electrification? Will the EMF values not be much higher then?

7. ⁠Can you share the mathematical modeling maps of Emf for 115k, 230k and the next two higher values of the power line ?

8. ⁠Can you share Emf maps from existing structures of 115k, 230 k and the next 2 higher values of the power line?

9. ⁠Please share any emf related information that you have especially if it contains assumptions for any calculations so we can understand the effects of current project and future projects.

10. Why does the electric pole structure proposed have wider diameter at the top? Can you share the design of the top of the pole ? Can it be extended by adding another section by bolting, welding or any other method? If so, what extra voltage can be added to the line?

11. ⁠what is the proposed power consumption of 95054 zip code for the next 5, 10 and 15 years in the master plan ?
Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of H-353
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
$100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-354
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And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

H-355
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Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thank you,
Venkat Patchigolla
2102 Payne Pl, Santa Clara, CA-95054

H-356
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Aparna Raman <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 7:31 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-357
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-358
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

H-359
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We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Thank you for your time.

Best regards,
Aparna Raman
4126086258

Aparna

H-360
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Gayathiri Lakshmanan <[email protected]> Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 7:04 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
H-361
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments-and- agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associated_wit h_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are H-362
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:

Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.

Reduced property values- several references provided below.

Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses.

Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route.

Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.

Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.

Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/
This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.
https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-363
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Prashant Tiwari <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 7:03 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-364
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-365
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-366
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette H-367
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

H-368
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

4. How Much Do Power Lines Decrease My Property Value?

How Much Do Power Lines Decrease My Property
Value?
Breaking down the pros and cons of living in, and selling, a home near power lines. How close is too close, for ...

Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thanks & regards,
Prashant

H-369
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Srinivas Reddy <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 6:32 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project
Attachments:

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Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet H-370
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

H-371
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Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th
2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7- 4D15-BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette H-372
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thank you,
Srinivas

H-373
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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Gane Sugali <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 4:45 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project
Cc: [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would H-374
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-375
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-376
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette H-377
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

H-378
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thanks
Gane Sugali
1921 Silva place
Santa Clara CA

H-379
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Adnan Hemani <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 4:32 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-380
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increased risks of Lou Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-381
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-382
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses.

H-383
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
• Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

--
Thanks,
Adnan Hemani

H-384
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Darshna Siva <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 4:19 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-385
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-386
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-387
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.

H-388
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-389
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: vinay iyer <[email protected]>
Sent: Thursday, August 29, 2024 4:17 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-390
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-391
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-392
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below.

H-393
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
• Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

--
Regards,
Vinay Iyer

H-394
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Preetika <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 11:37 AM
To: Allie Jackman <[email protected]>
Cc: [email protected]; Mayor and Council <[email protected]>; DL SVP Info Group <[email protected]>; PlanningCommission
<[email protected]>; Manager <[email protected]> Subject: NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project- Comments

Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important H-395
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf
There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

H-396
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
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Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below H-397
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

H-398
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses.
• Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

H-399
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

Thanks for your time and urgent attention on the matter Preetika Tiwari
Resident of 4489 Lafayette st, Santa Clara

H-400
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: kanupriya kabra <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 11:48 AM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-401
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-402
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-403
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:

H-404
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Thanks & Regards,
Kanupriya

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-405
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Ruchika Sarna <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2024 10:31 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-406
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-407
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-408
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

H-409
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-410
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Ruchika Sarna <[email protected]>
Sent: Wednesday, August 28, 2024 12:32 AM
To: NRS-KRS Project <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>; [email protected] <[email protected]>
Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what H-411
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The H-412
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-413
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

H-414
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

H-415
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: Yuri Kleban π <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2024 8:20 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; Allie Jackman Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community for the upcoming SVP project connecting the Northern Receiving Station NRS to Kifer receiving station (KRS)- NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

To Whomsoever it may concern,
We are residents of Santa Clara that will be negatively impacted by the “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project”. We have collectively reviewed the draft Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative declaration for “NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project” from July 2024. After reviewing this report and also attending the virtual and in person meetings, here are some references to emphasize our various concerns.

Reference #1 : CEQA’s reporting includes these State reviewing agencies: California Air Resources Board (ARB), California Department of Fish and Wildlife, Bay Delta Region 3 (CDFW), California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), California Department of Parks and Recreation, California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC), California Department of Transportation, District 4 (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Aeronautics (DOT), California Department of Transportation, Division of Transportation Planning (DOT), California Department of Water Resources (DWR), California Energy Commission, California Highway Patrol (CHP), California Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC), California Natural Resources Agency, California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), California Regional Water Quality Control Board, San Francisco Bay Region 2 (RWQCB), Office of Historic Preservation, State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Drinking Water.

Personal observation#1 : None of these agencies has any association with human health. CEQA reporting is not qualified enough to force the public to compromise on health concerns. Other agencies need to be involved to review this proposal, that are qualified to study the effect on “ humans”, not just wildlife and vegetation, or “ environment. The checklist is completely devoid of our gravest humanitarian concerns. It is quite shocking that the project has not included any study to understand the potential impact of EMF waves on human lives, given that the transmission lines are potentially less than 60 feet from the closest dwellings. The city of Santa Clara needs to step in and have third party/ independent studies completed in favor of human health.

Reference #2: Page 41 of report- Section 4.15. Electric and Magnetic Fields summary.

Personal observation#2 : This consideration was completely absent earlier. Only after the residents raised their voices, this section was added. To our greatest disappointment, this section is copied over from an older report on the “South Loop Reconfiguration Project” from 2020. One would have expected that a new study would have been conducted for a project this size. The lack of due diligence and ignorance towards the specifics of this project are apparent and not acceptable. In fact we have found several sections of this older report as being reused across the entire report.

The EMP map shared during the in person meeting had several flaws and we would like to question the viability of the study that was completed. What time of the day was the study completed and on what models were the values based on since these were done on assumption for the EMF values that would be there once the project is complete. Since we have seen the several sections of the report redundantly copied over from other reports, we would like a more detailed analysis of this report.

H-416
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Regarding EMF concerns for human health, there are plenty of scientific studies that do indicate the grave concern on human health with EMF exposures and we cannot ignore this aspect. Here is a reference to an article and there are plenty of articles listed here under references:
https://psc.wi.gov/Documents/Brochures/EMF.pdf

There are not enough references listed in the draft report provided to us, and the explanation provided seems to be conveniently using studies that prove otherwise. This needs more investigation and references. The solution provided as raising the height of the poles and increasing the distance is non- existent. It was confirmed during the in person meeting that the design will not be altered and the height was already designed as required according to the SVP team present there. It seems that the preparers of this report did not even read the report after copying pasting from the old report as evident in the list of proposed solutions is not applicable here.

The live presentation on August 22nd showed the comparison of EMF values of household objects as a means to show that everyday household items carry a similar range of mG( milli Gauss) units. This comparison was inherently flawed since it mentioned that the household devices were producing those level at 1 feet while those indicated for 115KVf lines were at 60 feet. further these household devices do not operate 24X7 similar to the transmission lines.

There were a lot of citations of reports showcasing that no clear proof of EMF to human health exists but we would like to also point out certain states like Connecticut Department of Public Health have cited reports that have shown an increased incidence of childhood leukemia( Blood cancer) at avg exposure of only 3 mG. Also they have called out that some utility workers exposed to high levels of emf have increase risks of Lur Gehrig's disease.

They also call out that most impacts of EMF from high voltage lines dissipate at ~300 feet.

These are available on Page 2 & Page 3 of this report: https://portal.ct.gov/-/media/departments- and-agencies/dph/dph/environmental_health/eoha/pdf/emffactsheet2008pdf.pdf This report has citations from WHO , National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences and California Department of Health Services.
https://www.niehs.nih.gov/sites/default/files/health/materials/electric_and_magnetic_fields_associ ated_with_the_use_of_electric_power_questions_and_answers_english_508.pdf

Reference #3

Page 174 ends

Personal observation#3
The railway line's proximity to the proposed high transmission lines is very concerning. The centerline distance from proposed lines to railway line is aproximately 50 feet per google maps with some margin for error. As per the report there are no Corona rings proposed for the 115KV lines. There seems to be negligence in design in consideration of the hazards posed by these high voltage lines as Corona effect can transfer current to railway lines. All the residents are at a high risk of accidental hazards given the proximity of the railway line, this project is adding on to the hazards. This section is only stating information about what Corona effect is, as may be required by law, which by the way is again a copy paste from an old report. The only concern discussed in more depth is the audible noise level. The concerns are presented to imply that this is not significant by stating that 115KV lines pose less than significant risk.

H-417
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Reference #4: Post meeting material from March 19th 2024 @https://santaclara.legistar.com/LegislationDetail.aspx?ID=6582415&GUID=E6E14646-3CF7-4D15- BB98-F18580696012&Options=&Search=
Personal observation#4: At surface level, it looks like Option #A was selected only based on Cost perspective, without any consideration to human health, young children, property values, Corona effect, long term sustainability perspective or any other factors. While its important to understand the results of CEQA study, its extremely critical to understand the negative impact of EMF on the many young children living around the proposed transmission lines. Without extensive research and study on the impact to young children and adult heath, we should not be approving such an incomplete proposal.

Page 6 ends

discussions with several real estate agents in the region, I have unanimously found all to agree that the real estate values of residences in close proximity to power lines goes down. Its hard to find potential buyers and most folks refrain from buying a house too close to high power transmission lines. There are 1000 plus residences in the area affected by this project. Even if we were to make very rough assumptions, and assume minimal cost reduction in property values and take an average loss of $100,000 per property in the current year, that goes to $100,000,000 of loss of equity to the public. This is not even accounting the businesses affected by this project. This long explanation was to raise a point that if the selection of route A was saving money to the city, this is costing a huge financial loss to the public, which is not acceptable. This decrease in property values will also directly impact the tax collection by the Santa Clara Assessor and result in lower tax revenue coming into the city of Santa Clara.

Reference #5 : Page 49 of report- Figure 5.1-2. Wall separating residences and Lafayette Street.

Personal observation#5: The picture is taken conveniently from the other side of the railway line which is actually Kingsbury street, inside a private community and not Lafayette street. This is further away from the proposed SVP lines. This is very misleading; see snapshots taken from Google maps below

H-418
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND

And this is what is included on the report:

The Mission Garden Townhome community has no walls as such and the main entry to residences face the road directly and are the most impacted. There are several other single family homes on Lafayette street with the same impact, having an entryway directly on the street. This and including other citations H-419
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
of reusing sections of older reports, is all in all absolutely unacceptable and instills distrust. This further shows incompetency of the agency/ agencies preparing this report.

Conclusion: This project's initial study needs to expand beyond CEQA for approval from the public. The limited scope of CEQA has failed to address the following concerns we have:
• Health hazards due to EMF levels.- This is by far the gravest concern and CEQA is clearly not qualified to study that.
• Reduced property values- several references provided below. • Loss of Aesthetic appeal for potential real estate buyers/ new and current businesses. • Increase in audible noise levels during and post construction, which is already high in the area with presence of railway line and air traffic route. • Increased fire hazard/ risk of other accidents.
• Induced current on railway lines with close proximity/ corona effect- CEQA report did not clearly address this for a 115KV line.
• Economic effect on the community from small to larger scale based on all of the above.

We demand further investigation and revisit other routes or proposals to resolve the power needs of the city. We have to ensure our and our kids’ health is not at stake in the name of development and infrastructure and are not in agreement for this project to move forward. We cannot approve this to move forward as of now given the lack of study and absence of a satisfactory solution/ mitigation provided in favor/ assurance to public health.

Additional References:

Research on effects of EMF on humans:

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6025786/ This research reinforces the concerns of EMF exposure effect on human health.

2. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/electric-and-magnetic-fields-power-lines This resource suggests taking precautions and keeping distance or limiting exposure. Residents would no longer have either of these two options per the current proposals if they are living there 24-7.

3. https://www.fastexpert.com/blog/should-i-buy-a-house-near-power-lines/ These are points of view from a real estate expert who clearly states that property value declines proportionately to the distance of the property from high tension lines. People have apprehensions whether or not research clearly defines the risk. Potential buyers might have low priority for a property too close to a high tension power line.

4. https://orchard.com/blog/posts/power-lines-and-property-value H-420
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Another research on real estate values lowered due to high tension power lines proximity.

---
Yuri Kleban | Global Partnerships Tools - Global Product Lead Manager | Google |

I am part of the g2g coaching program in Google. Sign up at go/coachyuri

This email may be confidential or privileged. If you received this communication by mistake, please don't forward it to anyone else, please erase all copies and attachments, and please let me know that it went to the wrong person.

H-421
NRS-KRS 115KV TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT
SEPTEMBER 2024 FINAL IS/MND
Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: *Sir*Yuri <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2024 8:22 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected]; [email protected] Subject: Concerns Regarding Upcoming High Power Electric Wire Poles in Our Community - NRS-KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project

Hi there,

As residents of Santa Clara, we are deeply concerned about the potential negative impacts of the "NRS- KRS 115kV Transmission Line Project." After thoroughly reviewing the draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (July 2024) and participating in related meetings, we have identified several critical issues that require attention.

Health Concerns: The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) review lacks focus on human health impacts, particularly concerning electromagnetic fields (EMF). Despite proximity to residences (less than 60 feet), there has been no comprehensive study on the potential health effects of EMF exposure. We urge the City of Santa Clara to commission independent studies that prioritize public health.

Inadequate Reporting: The inclusion of an Electric and Magnetic Fields (EMF) section in the report seems to have been an afterthought, prompted by resident concerns. This section largely replicates content from a 2020 report, lacking specific analysis relevant to this project. Additionally, the EMF study presented is flawed and does not provide a realistic assessment of potential risks.

Corona Effect and Railway Line Proximity: The report neglects the risks associated with the Corona effect and its potential impact on nearby railway lines. With the proposed transmission lines only 50 feet from the railway, this oversight poses a significant safety hazard.

Economic and Property Value Implications: The selection of Route A appears driven by cost-saving measures, with little regard for the potential $100 million loss in property value for residents in the affected area. This decision could also reduce tax revenues for the city.

Misleading Information: Certain report sections, such as the representation of residential impact, are misleading. The report’s reliance on outdated data further erodes trust in its findings.

In conclusion, the scope of the CEQA review is insufficient to address our concerns. We demand further investigation, particularly into the health and economic impacts, before this project proceeds. The well- being of our community should not be compromised in the name of development.

-Y & A, residents

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: derek fong <[email protected]>
Sent: Tuesday, August 27, 2024 4:28 PM
To: NRS-KRS Project
Subject: feedback on slides from feedback meeting

hi Allie,

i wasn't able to attend the meeting, but i did review the slides (without Appendix G being available) and quite frankly, i don't find the analysis and comparison of household appliances vs the expected load of the segments very convincing as rational to construct the project as proposed. in fact, i find the analysis/arguments misleading for several reasons:
• some residents are roughly ~60 ft from the centerline of the Lafayette stretch • the normal and peak loads greatly exceed the median value of many of the household appliances listed (who uses Electric can openers anyway?) • and most importantly, most of those appliances listed are not emitted EMF constantly to the homeowner. they only emit when operated (in short bursts) which is nothing like the 24/7 operated e transmission lines.
i hope, even if costly, Silicon Valley Power will reconsider the more costly and inconvenient option of undergrounding the line. white there are no regulations or agreement on "safe" EMF levels, as a scientist, i well know there is enough evidence in the peer reviewed literature which suggests any added EMF fields are harmful and increase the risk of cancer.

as a SVP customer, i would gladly have slightly higher electricity rates than have the added risk of the calculated EMF fields which to me are significant and should be avoided.

thanks for taking time time to hear my concerns. i hope the powers that be will take the concerns and voices of nearby residences seriously. don't hesitate to contact me if you have any questions about what i've written above.

Sincerely,
Derek Fong

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Email: NRS-KRS 115 kV T-Line

From: jeff.holmbeck <[email protected]>
Sent: Saturday, August 24, 2024 3:11 AM
To: NRS-KRS Project; Silicon Valley Power
Cc: Allie Jackman
Subject: Re: Join Us for a Community Meeting to Discuss SVP's New Transmission Line Project

Thank you Grace and I appreciate the response.

Regards,
Jeff

Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone

-------- Original message --------
From: NRS-KRS Project <[email protected]>
Date: 8/23/24 8:05 PM (GMT+01:00)
To: "jeff.holmbeck" <[email protected]>, Silicon Valley Power <[email protected]> Cc: Allie Jackman <[email protected]>
Subject: Re: Join Us for a Community Meeting to Discuss SVP's New Transmission Line Project

Hi Jeff,

Thanks for reaching out and expressing your preference on the Project. On Monday, we will upload the Public Engagement Meeting PowerPoint and FAQ to the SVP website (link below).

Projects | Silicon Valley Power

I am looking into the cost and will get back to you.

Thanks, and have a great weekend!
Grace

From: jeff.holmbeck <[email protected]>
Sent: Monday, August 12, 2024 8:39 PM
To: Silicon Valley Power <[email protected]>
Cc: NRS-KRS Project <[email protected]>
Subject: RE: Join Us for a Community Meeting to Discuss SVP's New Transmission Line Project

I can't attend the meeting, bur would like to know how much Santa Clara taxpayer $'s was spent on the environmental study?

My vote would be to put it underground.

Jeff

Sent from my Verizon, Samsung Galaxy smartphone

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-------- Original message --------
From: Silicon Valley Power <[email protected]>
Date: 8/12/24 5:42 PM (GMT+01:00)
To: [email protected]
Subject: Join Us for a Community Meeting to Discuss SVP's New Transmission Line Project

View as a webpage / Share

Join Us for a Community Meeting to Discuss SVP's New Transmission Line Project Silicon Valley Power (SVP) is proposing to construct 2.24 miles of new 115 kV transmission line connecting the Northern Receiving Station (NRS) and Kifer Receiving Station (KRS).

This project aims to balance and redistribute energy and support load growth.

An Initial Study was completed by Aspen Environmental Group on behalf of SVP, in accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), and is available for review in the Planning Division office in City Hall at 1500 Warburton Avenue, the Northside Branch Library at 695 Moreland Way, and online at: SiliconValleyPower.com/115kv. Based on the Initial Study, since the project involves constructing a new 2.24-mile-long overhead

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and/or underground 115 kV transmission line between the Northern Receiving Station (NRS) and Kifer Receiving Station (KRS) to enhance SVP’s system capacity and reliability, the project is not expected to have a significant environmental impact. This is due to the incorporation of mitigation measures through conditions of approval, which will reduce potential impacts to a less-than-significant level.

To help the affected community understand the Initial Study and to explain how the public can participate in SVP’s decision-making process, SVP will hold an in-person community meeting.

Meeting Details
Date: Thursday, August 22, 2024
Time: 5:00 pm - 6:30 pm
Location: Northside Community Room, 695 Moreland Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054 Public Engagement
A Draft Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND) was published on July 31, 2024. The 30-day public review period ends at 5:00 PM on August 30, 2024. We encourage residents to attend the community meeting in person. However, comments can also be submitted via US Mail or email to Allie Jackman (contact info below) by the deadline.

Contact Information
Allie Jackman, Silicon Valley Power
c/o Aspen Environmental Group
235 Montgomery Street, Suite 967
San Francisco, CA 94104-3002
Email: [email protected]
Project website: SiliconValleyPower.com/115kv
We look forward to your participation.

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