Late last year, the City of Bellevue approved a land use permit that would allow PSE to construct “Energize Eastside,” a major upgrade to high-voltage transmission lines that run through dozens of Eastside neighborhoods. CENSE appealed the decision to King County Superior Court. A preliminary hearing will be held this Friday, May 22, at 9:00 am. The public can listen to the hearing by phone (see details below). A full hearing will be held in August.

Our attorney has prepared a very clear and compelling brief that raises three objections:

1. In violation of Bellevue’s land use code, PSE withheld evidence showing actual demand for electricity on the Eastside. In other reports and venues, PSE admits that demand has been declining across its service territory due to advancing technology and conservation efforts.
2. PSE illegally divided the project into two separate permit applications, hoping to divide and conquer previously united opposition in Bellevue.
3. The EIS for the project is incomplete, because it did not evaluate the environmental impacts of the specific project being permitted. There was no assessment of the impacts of alternatives that could serve the needs of the smaller project.

If you would like to read our briefs and PSE’s, you can view or download them on this page.

Hearing Details: The hearing will begin at 9:00 AM on Friday, May 22. If you would like to listen in, just call (206) 263-8114 and enter the conference ID 2594795# when prompted.

Financial update

Like many non-profits, CENSE is facing financial challenges due to the economic impact of the virus. Donations have declined while expenditures have risen to prepare for the court case and a future land use hearing in Newcastle. Our dedicated board members have temporarily filled the funding gap. We would be grateful if you can help us with a donation of any size.

After six long years, we see the light at the end of the tunnel. Help us achieve a successful conclusion for our community, our environment, and future generations.