Legal fight over coal ash harms is resolved but debate over Georgia Power’s disposal tactics rages

The coal-fired Plant Scherer in Juliette, Ga. (Branden Camp, File/AP Photo)

A resolution was recently reached between Georgia Power and several dozen plaintiffs over allegations that a Monroe County power plant was the cause of illnesses suffered by nearby residents.

An agreement reached outside of the courtroom brings an end to 10 lawsuits filed by 69 plaintiffs living near Plant Scherer, which was once the nation’s largest coal-fired power plant. Residents relied on well water before the county extended a water line to the community a couple of years ago.

The case of Juliette’s Kylie Seitz was set to go to trial in November before the 10 lawsuits were resolved. In her lawsuit against Georgia Power, the 20-year-old sought damages for ailments she alleged were caused by Scherer that led to her being diagnosed with bone cancer at the age of four and having a permanent limp as a result of a metal rod being inserted in one of her legs.