Vt. Nuke Critics Renew Campaign Against Relicense

Two of Vermont's most famous residents and one of its former governors have joined groups opposed to the Vermont Yankee nuclear power plant in announcing a push for Town Meeting Day votes on whether the plant should keep operating past 2012.

Ice cream icons Ben Cohen and Jerry Greenfield and former Governor Phil Hoff lent their voices yesterday to those who want the Legislature to turn thumbs down on Vermont Yankee's request for a 20-year license extension.

Cohen says the nuclear power plant flies in the face of Vermont's image as having a pure environment. He says an accident at the aging plant could destroy lives, property and the state's economy.

The plant opened in 1972 and has endured a series of mishaps in recent years. Plant officials and other proponents contend its power helps keep electricity rates down.