A proposal to install sewers in Indiana's only county seat without a municipal sewer system is getting an unfavorable reception from residents who say it's too costly and would hurt seniors on fixed incomes.

About 30 Newport residents spoke out at a public hearing last week against seeking grant funds for the proposed $6.6 million sewer project. Fewer than 10 residents said they supported the sewer plan for their western Indiana community.

Town board member Joey Tolbert said the sewer issue already has been voted down once and that he doesn't expect it to pass Monday when the board will meet again.

Still, he supports the idea and said state regulations likely will prohibit much future growth in the town with the present septic-based system.