BROCKTON, Mass. -- A proposed power plant in Brockton would be cleaner than the oil plants that currently power much of the state, but many residents who oppose the development say any amount of pollution is too much for their city.

NewsCenter 5’s Pam Cross reported that residents are split over a Swiss company’s proposal to build a new power plant in Brockton. Supporters say the power plant project would provide a sorely needed economic boost for the city, but others worry the plant would be a health hazard waiting to happen.

“We found out the downsides were far greater than the upsides,” said Virginia Jepson, who opposes Brockton Clean Energy, as the power plant project is known. “There are many, many hazardous chemicals coming from this.”

The 350-megawatt plant would run on gas and diesel, which some call clean fuel sources because they produce less harmful pollutants than other forms of energy.

Opponents of the development voiced their opposition to the project with bright yellow signs, which popped up sporadically throughout the town recently. Many believe the 14-acre site proposed for the new power plant is located too close to schools and residential neighborhoods.

“There is no need right now,” said Jim Long. “There is more than enough capacity here in New England.”

Supporters of the plant, however, point to Brockton’s looming economic troubles as an inescapable reality. Former mayor John Yunits, who is a consultant to the Brockton Clean Energy Project, said the plant would add about $3 million in new tax revenue for the city, as well as an attractive lure for new businesses.

“Power plants always generate economic growth,” said Yunits. “There are companies that like to be near them. There are companies that grow with them, and just the image alone -- to project Brockton as a community that is business friendly -- is critically important to us going forward.”

“This is a generating company that is for profit, and there's nothing wrong with profit,” said Carl Landerholm. “The important understanding is what piece of the puzzle does it fit for the economy in Brockton.”

Critics of the plan organized a protest this week to highlight their concerns. The group also established a Web site to lobby voters and city leaders against the power plant development.

“Quite a few years ago, we fought a waste transfer station from coming in here and they thought we couldn't beat them, but we did, we think we can do this one, too,” said Jepson.

It may ultimately be a judge who decides the fate of the power plant, however. The case may move into courts if the city does not reach a conclusion on the matter.