The closing of the controversial Indian Point nuclear plant has created a deepening rift between Peekskill residents and executives.
Set to shutdown in 2021, opponents of the plant say it's an environmental and health disaster waiting to happen. Supporters say it's providing jobs and badly needed money for local businesses and schools.
Westchester County executive Rob Astorino announced Wednesday that the county will go to court to stop the closure of Indian Point.
"The closing of Indian Point will trigger the loss of billions of dollars of economic activity, tens of millions of dollars in revenue to local municipalities and schools," he said. "We're arguing that New York State must follow the law, especially when it applies to nine million human beings whose lives, livelihood and savings are being put at risk."
Others in agreement say shutting it down would be safe, but catastrophic to local businesses and schools that rely on the tax dollars the plant pays.
The announcement of the closure in January has been fiercely debated — the plant provides 25 percent of the power to Westchester and New York. Many residents say they're relieved the nuclear plant is shutting down after long-time safety concerns.
"The plant is getting old enough where more problems and more problems will be creeping up, and I think it's time," said Buchanan resident Susan Sadofsky. "Safety is number one in anyone's life and existence, and to live in fear here is definitely not acceptable."
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"In spite of the fact that it brings in a lot of revenue, safety-wise, it would be a good deal if it was closed," said Nancy Carangelo.
Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office said they plan to fully defend the shutdown of Indian Point, calling it "a matter of public safety."
