Circular enerG, Inc. has filed an Article 78 against the Town of Romulus and its Zoning Board of Appeals over a decision, in response to Romulus resident Alan Kiehle’s appeal, to vacate Zoning Officer Adam Schrader’s 2017 determination that the incinerator is a renewable energy source and would not be “noxious or injurious.”
Seneca Lake Guardian is urging legislators to immediately pass bi-partisan bills in the state Senate (S8109) and Assembly (A10277), which would prohibit any garbage incinerator from going through the lengthy and costly state siting process and restoring home rule.
The lawsuit comes on the heels of Governor Cuomo and Senator Schumer separately announcing their opposition to the project, which would allow the daily transportation of nearly 3,000 tons of trash presumably from New York City by truck and/or rail for burning at an incinerator facility built at the Seneca Army Depot in Romulus.
If built, the facility located in the heart of the Finger Lakes would include a 260-foot smoke stack that could be seen for miles, releasing toxic emissions that will negatively impact the nearly $3 billion wine and tourism industry, which supports about 60,000 jobs.
The town of Romulus, residents and advocates have openly opposed the proposal due to concerns related to the health of the community, the environment and the economy. In response to local opposition, the developer submitted the proposal through the State’s Article 10 process.
The Senate bill (S8109) was introduced by Senator Pam Helming (R-Canandaigua) and Senator Thomas O’Mara (R-Big Flats) and the Assembly bill (A10277) was introduced by Assemblyman Michael J. Cusick (D-Staten Island) and Assemblywoman Barbara Lifton (D-Ithaca).
– Read more about the lawsuit from the Finger Lakes Times
Seneca Lake Guardian President Joseph Campbell released the following statement:
“This lawsuit is just another example of the ruthless and deceitful tactics Circular enerG has used to steamroll its project despite widespread opposition. We cannot allow this irresponsible company to take advantage of our region for its own profit. This proposal poses a danger to our thriving community and our record breaking tourism industry. We urge legislators to immediately pass legislation that would put control back in our region’s hands when deciding whether we want these kinds of facilities. We are looking forward to working with them to create a Finger Lakes that is free of incinerators that will do more harm than good.”
