One audience member later told Berger “it’s not an issue of where to put the line, we don’t want this line anywhere.”
He went on to say that AltaLink has displayed unrestrained haste in drawing up plans for the project, that their methods are morally corrupt, and that the issue is tearing the community apart.
Another audience member took a vote among the approximately 100 people present, asking who was in favour of and opposed to the transmission line.
Every person raised their hand in opposition, and Berger insisted he would voice the objections and concerns to his colleagues in Edmonton.
The other main topic of conversation was the proposed Micrex magnetite mine north of Burmis.
Berger said SRD’s decision on whether the province will allow Micrex to mine in the area will come within the next month.
The Micrex saga has been ongoing since 2004, when when the company originally acquired mineral rights to the area.
Earlier this month, Alberta’s finance minster, Ted Morton, told the Calgary Herald that Micrex should not be allowed to go ahead until the final land-use framework for the South Saskatchewan Region (which encompasses the area) has been completed – a roughly two-year timeline.
“Until the plan is out, it would be premature to make a decision,” said Morton.
Those present at the discussion on the weekend also seemed to share this opinion, as the mine would prove inappropriate under the plan.
Berger encouraged everyone to write letters to SRD Minister Mel Knight, addressing their concerns and opinions.
“Albertans should have the ability to plan for Albertans,” said Berger.