To the editor:

Kinder Morgan Power Co. attorneys argue that power-plant opposition results from misunderstanding. County commissioners, meanwhile, suggest it results from poor public relations by Kinder Morgan. The Kinder Morgan permit application itself is instructive.

In terms of air pollution, Kinder Morgan reports that annually the plant would emit 700 tons of noxious gases and particulates. While far greater than would be present without the plant, these emissions generally do not exceed applicable air-quality standards averaged annually. However, over shorter periods (one to 24 hours), several emissions would exceed the standards.

If the plant were to emit as proposed, background air-pollution levels could increase enough to preclude development in the area of companies that pollute less and employ more than the five individuals Kinder Morgan promises. And what would happen to air quality if the other power companies vying for county land start spewing similar volumes of pollutants?

If development bonds were issued, the county would own the plant until Kinder Morgan paid the debt. While the company would have a negligible economic impact, it would threaten air quality, water quality, the water table and land stability. Is this really a wise use of taxpayer funds? I think not. Surely we could entice less offensive economic activities to the area.

Given their approach here, it is small wonder that Kinder Morgan applications have been rejected in both Kansas and Illinois because, just as in Cape Girardeau County, they have declined to incorporate best available control technology in their design.

ALAN R.P. JOURNET

Cape Girardeau