Power plant proposal faces conflict [Valley Morning Star, Harlingen, Texas]

July 27--SAN BENITO -- Neighbors and business owners Friday spoke out against developers' plans to build a power plant on the 170-acre site of the city's old airport off Business 77.

Residents said the proposed natural gas-fired power plant would be an "eyesore" along one of the city's major roadways and could pose safety and health risks.

But developer Peter Del Mastro said the plant would not endanger residents and added he would move the project out of town if neighbors opposed it. Telemark Development Group, a Nevada company, has proposed a $215 million project to build a power plant and a distribution center for Mexican products on the former airport site that fronts businesses and homes.

The property is located off of Business 77 in the Stookey Road area.

Irene Montalvo, a former city commissioner who runs an accounting business out of her home, said the city should plan the project on the outskirts of town.

"It's industrial," Montalvo said. "It doesn't belong in the middle of the city. What about the people who are here? I want that place developed but not that way."

Like Montalvo, Micky Alvarez said a power plant could cause an explosion or pose a health hazard to neighbors.

"I wouldn't want to be close to that -- just wires and lines. But more than looks and scenery, I would be more concerned about health," said Alvarez, who runs an insurance business. "We were hoping that they would develop local businesses there. I was hoping for the development of homes."

Maria Mora said a power plant would make the area look "ugly."

"It's not going to look good in a small city. That's clear," said Mora, who owns a beauty shop. "All around here are families."

Noami Olvera said a power plant would thwart the area's development.

"It would be an eyesore," said Olvera, a retired school principal. "I know San Benito is trying to grow but I wouldn't want that. If they build it in the middle of nowhere, I don't care, but not in the city."

Del Mastro said the General Electric power plant that would generate 171 megawatts would be built on about 100 acres. The proposed distribution center would be built on remaining acreage, he said.

"We're talking about an environmentally friendly natural gas-powered power plant that will meet all state and federal health and safety requirements," Del Mastro said. "If the people of San Benito don't want a power plant there, we have no problem moving somewhere else in Cameron County."

___

(c)2013 Valley Morning Star (Harlingen, Texas)

Visit Valley Morning Star (Harlingen, Texas) at www.valleymorningstar.com

Distributed by MCT Information Services