LETTER: Reasons Why the Oxford Power Plant Tax Deal is Bad for Taxpayers

Letter to the editor,

Oxford February 11 Referendum (Tax Stabilization, Development, and Community Development Agreements)

Q: Is this the best deal for Oxford?

A: No! At least four towns (Devon, Middletown, Milford and Beacon Falls) in Connecticut and one in Massachusetts (Medway) have negotiated better deals.

Q: Will a “NO” vote cause Oxford to lose money?

A: No! Contrary to what we have been told, a NO vote will not force Oxford to revert back to the 1999 financial agreement. In spite of the fact that the $112 million was defeated by a vote of 331 to 192 at the first September town meeting, it is still $112 million once again in this second referendum vote. So if the money was not lost after the first town NO vote, why would it be lost in this second town vote with a NO vote?

Q: Is CPV cheating Oxford by paying most of the taxes in the later years?

A: Yes! CPV must pay equal yearly payments to provide Oxford with greater annual revenue, more financial security, and protection.

Q: What provisions protect Oxford if CPV abandons the plant?

A: None. A very rigorous and detailed plan is needed.

Q: How can Oxford influence how much fuel oil is burned which is more polluting than natural gas?

A: A monetary penalty is needed to discourage its use.

Q: Are EPA air quality standards up to date?

A: The standards lag behind the latest scientific data due to government gridlock and energy industry resistance to reduce its huge profits.

Q: How will Oxford residents protect their air and water quality?

A: A community alert system must be implemented to enable Oxford residents to be notified of hazards on a timely basis.

Q: How will Oxford and surrounding towns handle a major plant emergency?

A: Additional suitable HAZMAT and emergency response equipment, and on-going first responder training are needed.

Q: How can we prevent hazards to residents and damage to local roads during construction?

A: E-Commerce Drive by-pass road must be completed before start of construction.

Q: Should an industry expert be hired by Oxford to assist in negotiating the best deal for Oxford?

A: Yes! Vote “NO” at the February 11 Referendum!

Jerry Fogel

Oxford, CT