New Group formed to PROMOTE Plant
Community Energy Solutions Challenges New Group to Public Discussion
Community Energy Solutions, the nonprofit organization promoting a clean, efficient energy future for the
"We eagerly welcome this opportunity for public discussion of our energy future," said Mark Kresowik, organizer for Community Energy Solutions. "This is a local decision – LS Power needs the City Council of Waterloo to rezone the property. We hope this new group will join us in calling for democracy, for an open forum with City officials and the public."
Representatives for the Iowa Utilities Board have stated that if the local planning agency denies zoning, the plant cannot be built. The City Council has the ability to stop this plant.
"Some say it is a 'done deal', but local elected officials have yet to come out, listen to the people and explain to the public what position they have taken so far and why," said Kamyar Enshayan, a Cedar Falls City Councilor.
Some members of Community Energy Solutions also challenged the group's claims that approval by the Department of Natural Resources meant the plant would be safe.
"We know the EPA and DNR regulate some of the pollution," said Gail Mueller, President of Community Energy Solutions. "But then why are 16 states suing the EPA for not protecting the public? And who is regulating the millions of tons of carbon dioxide that contribute to global warming?"
Sixteen states have sued the Environmental Protection Agency for mercury rules that are too lenient. Coal-fired power plants contribute 40% of the carbon dioxide emissions in the
"We MUST have a public discussion about the extremely exciting new advances in technology," said Renata Sack of
Those promoting the economic benefits also have something to consider.
"Idaho Governor Jim Risch declared that as long as he promoted economic development the damages created by emissions from coal-fired power plants would outweigh any economic benefit. He effectively banned the construction of coal plants in
Thousands of citizens do not feel that this plant represents progress for the
Carrie La Seur, an attorney with Midwest Environmental Justice Advocates, said, "I have confidence that
The public, and