Santee Residents Protest Power Plant

Protesters say the emissions would endanger children

A group of Santee residents say they aren't going down without a fight against a proposed power plant in the East County.

The planning process has started for the Quail Brush Power Plant, which would be on the border of San Diego and Santee, just east of Mission Trails Regional Park.

Last month, the Santee City Council voted 5-0 against the plant there.

Protesters say they're afraid of health risks and its proximity to West Hills High school and parks.

"We don't want an archaic power plant placed right next to our park, one of the gems of San Diego," said Santee resident Stephen Houlahan.

"I'm really worried about the health concerns, I'm worried about the emissions and the affects on at-risk populations --which include the children and the elderly in the area."

The plant would provide electricity to SDG&E customers during peak demand.

On April 26, the San Diego Planning Commission will decide whether to change the zoning of the site from "open land" to "industrial use."

Follow NBCSanDiego for the latest news, weather, and events: iPad App | iPhone App | Android App | Facebook | Twitter | Google+ | Instagram | RSS | Text Alerts | Email Alerts

Contact Us