Six Mile community frustrated after gas line installed without permission, residents say

MOUNT PLEASANT, S.C. (WCBD)–Neighbors who live along John Baliem Road in the Six Mile community are angry, claiming public utilities are being installed on their private properties and calling the companies to stop. 

On May 21, the Mount Pleasant Police Department responded to a call about a disturbance from residents voicing concerns over Dominion Energy installing gas lines on their property.

That case was later brought to a halt due to a court order.

“We got an injunction and went to court, and nothing was supposed to be done until we went to mediation and got back to the judge,” said Henry Baliem, a resident.

In August, town officials, Dominion Energy, and residents had a Zoom call discussing a future mediation date to determine the gas lines’ plan. Residents told News 2 that three days later, Dominion Energy crews installed the gas lines for 300 feet along the Baliem’s property.

“ They hooked the gas line up, and they went on. The developer told our lawyer that if we didn’t let them put the gas line in, they would sue us for $15 million for putting it on my property. I don’t think so,” said Baliem.

A mediation hearing is set for September 25 – and residents said they hope to have their issues resolved.

“We’re just trying to get along with everybody. It’s not like we’re bullying them or trying to stop people from developing on their property, but to use my road is a different thing,” said Baliem.

News 2 did reach out to the town of Mount Pleasant and Dominion Energy for comment.

Dominion Energy provided the following statement: “Our project was granted all necessary permits and completed within existing rights of way,” said Paul Fischer, spokesperson for Dominion Energy.