Some Salem Township land owners are hiring legal counsel in preparation for a battle with a utility company they say is snatching up easement rights without proper compensation, the Observer & Eccentric reported.

ITC is seeking the easement rights around its transmission lines throughout the township. Some property owners have agreed to sell rights, with prices varying depending on the area sought. But at least 10 say the offers aren't proper compensation, according to the report.

ITC is seeking easements of 170 foot areas that allow for the lines and to trim trees, bushes and brush, the newspaper reported.

The cases are before Washtenaw County Circuit Court Judge Donald E. Shelton, with a hearing scheduled for March 8.

Read the full report.