Consolidated Energy did not return calls Tuesday.

Davis County Health Department director Lewis Garrett said his department is reviewing Consolidated Energy's application. But Garrett said he's inclined to oppose new pollution sources in Davis County.

"Davis County has an air-quality problem already," Garrett said. "It is a significant problem."

Currently, Davis County, along with the state, is trying to come up with a plan to battle existing pollution, Garrett said.

Dr. Brian Moench, president of Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment, wrote in a recent opinion article in the Deseret News that he expects to see higher rates of cancer in children and adults, increased rates of premature birth, low birth weight, SIDS, overall infant mortality and death from respiratory disease.

Besides environmental concerns from the public, Consolidated Energy would likely face a significant hurdle in West Bountiful, if the permit is approved, which could take up to three months.

West Bountiful Mayor James Behunin said he and other city officials are concerned that the proposed construction site is zoned residential and serves as a buffer between the refinery and residents.

"However, the city still has not received an application for a building permit, nor would it seriously consider such an application given the current zoning and the city's requirement for a buffer zone around the oil refinery," Behunin said in an e-mail Tuesday. "For this reason, it is difficult to imagine that such a project could be built in West Bountiful city given the current circumstances."

If you go ...

Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment is hosting a community education meeting to discuss the potential health consequences of a proposed power plant in West Bountiful.

Where: 1555 S. 800 West, Woods Cross
When: Thursday, 6:30 p.m.

Utah DEQ public hearing

Where: 168 N. 1950 West, Room 101
When: Tuesday, 6:30 p.m.

E-mail: jdougherty@desnews.com