JESSUP -- A controversial power plant is one step closer to being built in a community in Lackawanna County.
Wednesday night Jessup council approved a request to amend a zoning ordinance so plans can move forward.
The packed auditorium at Valley View High School erupted in applause and boos, as a controversial power plant took the first step in moving forward with plans to build in Jessup.
The decision by borough council came down with a vote of 6-1 with council agreeing with Chicago-based energy company, Invenergy. The zoning in an industrial site in the borough needed to be changed to allow the plant to go there.
“Well it’s the first step and I’m glad that council listened to the facts and that they used the science and rather than the emotions and that they are looking forward for progress,” said Jennifer Ritzco.
Invenergy wants to build a natural gas fueled power plant on the site, but current zoning would not allow a facility such as this one to be built.
The company’s request to amend it was granted Wednesday night.
This issue has divided neighbors in Jessup as the debate raged on for months.
Those opposing the plant walked out of auditorium right after the votes were cast.
“The majority of Jessup do not want that plant,” said Barbara Rossi. “No, the union guys want it and let me see if they’re going to get the job. They’re all from Tunkhannock and Scranton. They’re not from Jessup.”
“I can’t believe what the vote, what happened with this vote. There are people there that are voting for a company from outside the area who have proven to be liars,” said Jerry Crinella.
“I think council erred in their decision. I still firmly believe that the M-1 zoning is not zoned for that purpose,” said Anthony Wrightser.
Still both Invenergy and council say this does not mean the plant will be built anytime soon.
“This is the first step in a number of steps in the whole process and we’re very pleased,” said Dan Ewan with Invenergy. The next step is for Jessup council to decide how to re-zone the industrial site; no meeting date is scheduled yet.
However, DEP will be holding its own meeting on the power plant. That is scheduled for Wednesday, September 2 from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Valley View High School in Archbald.
