The North Dakota Public Service Commission has decided to hold two public hearings “virtually” – using computers and telephones.
Gov. Doug Burgum signed an executive order suspending the requirement that the PSC hold siting hearings as close to the proposed site of natural gas plants, pipelines, wind farms and other energy facilties.
That, because of COVID-19. Federal guidance has said public gatherings need to be limited to 10 people.
The Commission decided a hearing on the Northern Divide 200 megawatt wind project, which was to be held at Bowbells, will instead be held remotely. The date is April 17. The Commission did the same for the proposed B. Sanderson Natural Gas Plant, where the hearing had been scheduled to be held in Williston on April 24.
"Doing this allows us to have a thorough hearing, and facilitate good public input," said Commissioner Julie Fedorchak. "We have been perfecting that technology over the last couple of weeks, and we feel pretty comfortable that we have a plan in place to allow for dynamic public input."
"Individuals have other commitments in their lives," said PSC Chairman Brian Kroshus. "Giving them the ability to conference in and share their thoughts, or even just to watch the hearing process itself, it does not inhibit, but expands public access."
Kroshus said the PSC might continue these practices after the current health crisis is over.
"In terms of transparency, and accessibiity to our proceedings, anything we can do to enhance that is a good thing," Kroshus said.
