What could have been the kiss of economic prosperity in southern Illinois is now being shown the metaphorical exit door by the Governor no less. Governor Pat Quinn has vetoed two bills that would allow the construction of a coal to gas plant in the state of Illinois. The two plants were proposed to be built one along the Calumet River and the other in Jefferson County in south of the state.
On Monday the Governor released a statement saying that “Our priorities must be economic growth, consumer protection, environmental quality and a comprehensive approach to energy generation and efficiency. The bill before me today does not fully achieve these goals.”
The proposed coal gasification plants have been the subject of some protests specially by the Citizens Utility Board whose executive Director David Kolata has said that studies showed that the plant would lead to increased utility rates and more job loss. However others have also been protesting about the pollution that would surround the area near the plants and the effect of the same on the residents.
The veto from the Governor has brought forth mixed reactions from people in the state. Those hoping for extra jobs and more money have definitely been voicing their disappointment over the issue. Some have gone so far as to say that the governor was out of touch with what the people in the state wanted.
Phillip Gonet, president of the Illinois Coal Association, said that it was a very disappointing thing for the oil and coal industry. What this represented was an opportunity to further the technology, and that was the prime issue for the Coal Association.