Bluebonnet statement on fire lawsuit

Bluebonnet Electric Co-Op provides a statement on the Wilderness Ridge lawsuit:

“Because there is a lawsuit, Bluebonnet is limited in its ability to discuss the case. We cannot and will not try this case through the media.

“Bluebonnet respectfully denies any allegation that it was negligent, grossly negligent or that any act or omission on its part caused the fire.

“We immediately began an investigation when the fire occurred. This was a very unfortunate accident.

“Bluebonnet has an easement, entered into in 1989 with the property owner, that controls what it can and cannot do along its right of way that is defined as an area only 10 feet either side of the center line of its electric distribution lines. By the terms of this easement, Bluebonnet is allowed to cut, trim, and/or remove any trees, brush or shrubbery to the extent to keep the easement clear. The easement further provides that the right-of-way crews maintaining this easement ‘leave as many large pines as possible.’

“The tree that fell and made contact with the line was well outside the easement.”

-- Will Holford, manager of public affairs, Bluebonnet