The Town of New Milford has filed a petition with the state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection seeking a stricter permitting process for the proposed stormwater management plan of a controversial solar power operation on Candlewood Mountain.  The 20 megawatt project would be on a 163 acre site. 

The petition asks that a declaratory ruling prevent the project from proceeding.  New Milford is looking for a ruling requiring the developer to apply for an individual permit because of the potential adverse environmental impact.  The town cited a proposed 54 acres of deforestation. 

The petition is also asking for the comment period to be extended for 90 days.  In its filing, town officials say the proposed project may destroy the public trust in the natural resources of the state. 

An advocacy group, Rescue Candlewood Mountain, filed an administrative appeal of the Siting Council's ruling in favor of the project.  The trial of the appeal began on December 4th in New Britain Superior Court and is continuing.  In its appeal, the group argues that the project would cause the massive destruction of core forest and other adverse environmental impacts.