December, 2006, The Everglades Coalition, Resolution on West County Energy Center, .

RESOLUTION OF THE EVERGLADES COALITION

WHEREAS, the West County Energy Center (WCEC) is a power plant proposed by Florida Power and Light for a location in western Palm Beach County; and

Whereas, the proposed placement of the WCEC borders the Everglades Agriculture Area, is adjacent to the Arthur R. Marshal Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge, and is in close proximity to the J.W. Corbett Wildlife Management Area; and

Whereas, the operation of the proposed WCEC will consume 21 million gallons of water per day in direct competition with water intended for Everglades National Park and Everglades Restoration projects; and

Whereas, the operation of the proposed WCEC will generate 3000 tons of annual emissions, which may be transported to the nearby wildlife areas and the Everglades National Park; and

Whereas, twelve million gallons of diesel fuel will be stored onsite as backup to the natural gas pipeline, which if spilled could cause massive damage in the nearby wildlife refuges or water storage areas; and

Whereas, the construction and operation of the proposed WCEC will disrupt the wildlife intended for protection in the nearby National Wildlife Refuge, and

Whereas, the energy from the proposed WCEC is not required to meet existing needs, and would produce substantial excess energy capacity in the region; and

Whereas, the construction and operation of the WCEC increases Florida's dependence on non-renewable energy sources.

Now therefore, the Everglades Coalition resolves and recommends:

1) That no decision on the approval of the WCEC, an important environmental issue for the future of Florida, should be considered until after the installation of our new Governor.

2) That no power plants should constructed adjacent or in the Everglades Agriculture Area.

3) That Florida should focus on conservation and renewable energy sources rather than construct more infrastructure dependent upon non-renewable sources.

BE IT SO RESOLVED, on December __, 2006

_______________________________________ Co-Chair, Everglades Coalition