By Kathy Reynolds

SPRINGFIELD, Mass. (WGGB) — Dozens filled an elementary school cafeteria to hear the state’s plan to hire a consultant to evaluate the health and environmental impact of proposed biomass plants.

Those in attendance were primarily opposed to building the plants, and felt the state’s consultant approach might be heading in the wrong direction. 

Michaelann Brewsee belongs to the group Stop Toxic Incineration.

“I would prefer them to do a study that says if we find a plant is going to do any harm at all we won’t go ahead,” he said.  

Three biomass plants are proposed in Springfield, Russell and Greenfield.  The consultant will be hired through a bidding process, and their findings will help the Department of Environmental Protection determine whether these plants will receive permits.