Jon Runyan breaks with Chris Christie, oppose Oyster Creek Nuclear Deal

Today Exelon and the Christie Administration announced a deal to close the Oyster Creek Nuclear Plant in 2019. That way, Exelon (the plant's owners) don't have to upgrade the equipment (add cooling towers) on the oldest nuclear power plant in the country to meet modern standards. You would think when a conservative like Chris Christie makes a deal to protect New Jersey it would be credible. Jon Runyan, however, attacked the deal today:

Toms River, December 9, 2010 – Congressman-elect Jon Runyan (NJ-3) released the following statement in response to news that Exelon plans to close the Oyster Creek Nuclear Power Plant in 2019, ten years earlier than planned.

“While I appreciate both the environmental and financial factors that led to the compromise announced today, I am deeply concerned about the hundreds of local residents who will lose their jobs and the potential for a massive property tax increase on Lacey Township homeowners when the $14 million in revenue the plant provides to the township disappears,” said Runyan, who indicated he would meet with local elected officials shortly to seek their input on formulating a plan moving forward for the impacted communities.

“As the next Congressman, I pledge to stand with the people and small businesses who call this region home to ensure their communities remain affordable, their environmental issues are addressed, and their local economy is prepared to adapt and prosper after Oyster Creek is gone.”

Let's hope he is effective in getting the help rather than just posturing. It will be a real test of the new Representative. After all, adding a few donkeys can lower his personal tax bill but wouldn't help the citizens of Lacey Township run the schools or repair the roads.