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Couple Battles Utility Co. Over 120-Foot Cell Tower
11 Oct
Summary
- Couple claims utility company built a 120-foot tower without permission.
- Homeowners allege threats of power disconnection to sign an easement.
- A court will decide if the easement allows for above-ground utility placement.
A married couple in Friday Harbor, Washington, is in a legal battle with the Orcas Power and Light Cooperative (OPALCO) concerning a 120-foot cell phone tower. Liz Covert and Denis Goudie assert that OPALCO constructed the tower on their property without their permission, allegedly threatening to cut off their power if they refused to sign an easement within 90 days.
The couple purchased their property in 2017 and claims their existing easement only covers landscaping, not above-ground utility structures. They were reportedly aware of a smaller wooden tower but were surprised when it was replaced by a significantly taller steel one, along with a larger generator, impacting their property's potential view and introducing noise.
Covert and Goudie state they were not notified of the construction work occurring on their land. OPALCO, a non-profit cooperative, claims the tower site had prior owner permission and that members agree to grant necessary easements when joining. The interpretation of what the current easement "allows" will be a central focus as the couple pursues litigation to have the tower removed.
