Despite the efforts of some residents in North Branford, the town's attorney rejected a petition aimed at blocking a propane storage facility.
Neighbors say they're disappointed but not defeated, and on Saturday many of them met to discuss their next steps including the possibility of suing the town.
"In no means are we defeated. This is just, as far as I'm concerned, a bump in the road," said Doreen Currie of North Branford.
At a Tuesday night town council meeting residents turned in the petition filled with more than 1,000 signatures asking the council to hold a referendum to repeal a zoning regulation allowing for bulk propane storage which could lead to a 60,000 gallon propane facility being built on Ciro Road.
"Sixty thousand gallons. It's like a nuclear weapon," said James Flaherty of North Branford. "I was appalled. I'm thinking, what is the possible benefit?"
Days later the town attorney delivered his decision saying the petition asked the council "to perform an act beyond the scope of its legal authority."
"I was disappointed but not surprised," said Currie.
Neighbors say one "no" won't stop them. They've hired an attorney and are already looking into starting a different petition while working to gather further support. When asked if they were looking into the possibility of a lawsuit, neighbors say they were pursing every avenue including litigation.
NBC Connecticut reached out to the town attorney, mayor, and councilmembers but no one was available to comment Saturday.
Neighbors say the fight has just begun.
