Unique Solution to Industrial Pollution

C H E S H I R E, Ohio, May 13, 2002 -- In many ways, Cheshire is a picture postcard of small-town America, with leafy streets, tidy homes and flags prominently displayed. Although it was not officially incorporated until 50 years ago, its history stretches back to the Civil War. But now its future is measured in months.

Cheshire's 221 residents are leaving.

"I'm ready to go and move my family on to what I think is better things for us," Village Councilman Ron Hammond said. "I think we've suffered enough."

The source of their suffering is a giant coal-fired power plant next door.

The plant, operated by American Electric Power, towers over Cheshire. Residents have long complained about pollution — especially a blue, sulfuric haze that has settled periodically over the town. Hammond blames it for triggering his 8-year-old daughter's asthma attacks.

"We had anything from sore eyes, sore throat, headaches, sores on the lips and the throats," said Cheshire Mayor Tom Reese.

‘The Best Solution’

After a government report confirmed health hazards, the residents of the Cheshire went to the power company.

They made an unusual proposal, asking the company to buy their homes — in fact, to buy the entire town for $20 million.

In return for a promise by residents not to file health claims, the company agreed. "It really was the best solution," said Dale Heydlauff, senior vice president for environmental affairs for American Electric Power.

The power plant plans to create a site for unloading coal that is brought in by barges on the Ohio River. Homes will be bulldozed. Cheshire will disappear. That produces mixed feelings.

"It is difficult, but it's to the point that it's best for us to go," said Reese, whose family has lived in the town for at least three generations.

Not Everyone Is Happy

Some of those just outside of the village are worried and angry because they are not part of the proposed buyout. Others are upset because children will still be bused into schools just hundreds of yards from the plant.

"It leaves our schools and 800 of our children holding the bag," said Charla Evans, the interim county school superintendent. "It leaves us in harm's way."

Even for those getting out of harm's way, leaving isn't easy.

Boots Hern, 82, has lived in Cheshire for 64 years.

"There have been a lot of tears shed," she said, "but we know we have to go. But it's a shame. This is such a nice little town."

Once the agreement is signed, residents will have about six months to say goodbye to their "nice little town."