abandonmentletter_dh2.doc

March 8, 2000

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Re: Meeting to Discuss the Abandonment of Grangeville-Spalding Rail Line

Dear :

As you know, Camas Prairie RailNet intends to soon file an Application with the U.S. Surface Transportation Board (STB) to abandon the Grangeville-Spalding rail line. Although the authority to grant or deny rail abandonments is governed by federal law, state law requires that the Idaho Public Utilities Commission schedule a public hearing on the proposed abandonment. In preparation for the Idaho PUC and STB proceedings, the Commission’s Staff has scheduled an informal meeting for local government officials and rail shippers. The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 15, 2000 at 6:30 p.m. at the Craigmont City Hall located at 109 East Main Street.

The purpose of the meeting is to generally outline the separate PUC and STB abandonment proceedings, advise local officials and shippers how they can participate, and to answer any questions you may have. For example, the STB must consider whether the proposed abandonment “will have a serious adverse impact on rural and community development.” 49 U.S.C. § 10903(d). The Commission’s attorney, Don Howell, Deputy Attorney General, will lead the discussion and be available to answer questions.

I hope you will be able to attend. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. Howell at [phone].

Sincerely,

Ron Law
Executive Director

cc: Donald L. Howell, II
Area Legislatures
CP Abandonment
February 17, 2000
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