Ethanol plant cleared; foes consider appeal
Despite groundwater concerns, judge sides with Gulfstream Bioflex Energy.
Mike Penprase
News-Leader
A judge ruled Friday that the backers of a Rogersville ethanol plant can proceed with the project, prompting opponents to consider an appeal to a higher court.
A temporary restraining order had kept Gulfstream Bioflex Energy of Mount Vernon from working at the proposed location of a $165 million corn processing plant on U.S. 60.
The Citizens for Groundwater Protection group argued that the proposed plant would use so much groundwater that neighbors' water supply would be affected. The group also expressed concern that a lagoon expected to created during the manufacturing could become a pollution concern.
"We're just trying to gather our thoughts now. Our hearts are in our throats," said plaintiff Larry Alberty, adding that the group will discuss future actions as soon as they get together. "We did everything correctly and had the best attorney, but the judge has made his decision and we'll have to live with it."
"It's not about the ethanol plant. It's about our water."
Springfield attorney Bryan Wade said he expects that Judge Frank Conley's ruling in favor of his clients will be appealed, but GBE officials plan to proceed with the project. Gulfstream officials were not available for comment Friday.
Conley was specially assigned to the Webster County case.
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