Trumbull upset over proposed generator

Trumbull, Conn. (WTNH) - It was standing room only in Trumbull for talk about a proposed power generator. The recent tragedy in Middletown has many asking questions about such a generator.

The line stretched out the chamber door at Trumbull Town Hall. The expressions were stone-faced serious; filled with concern and worry.

"We came here tonight as a unified community to strongly oppose the installation of a power plant in the heart of our Trumbull community," said Michael Begg of Trumbull.

Danbury-based Connecticut FuelCell Energy Incorporated wants to build a fuel cell/turbo-expander energy system at the corner of Huntington Turnpike and Primrose. Southern Connecticut Gas [SCG] operates a small facility here right now. The signs of discontent with this idea seem to be everywhere [even from a neighboring snowman].

"Our home values are going to go down a hell of a lot more than they are right now," said Begg.

But the overriding concern is safety. It was just a week and a half ago that the Kleen Energy Plant exploded in Middletown, killing five people. That was in a relatively rural area. This site is surrounded by houses and owned by people ready to fight.

"I'm so proud to be part of this passionate, educated, well-organized group of residents that have just hit the ground running six days ago," said Anne Berte of Trumbull

Nothing is set in stone, and ultimately, for the power plant to come to fruition, it must first be approved by the Connecticut Siting Council. Neighbors hope the company gets the message to go somewhere else.

"Although at times our message may be filled with emotion, it's only because we're passionate about this plight," said Berte.