A group working to resettle international refugees in the United States says it has won approval from the U.S. State Department to bring 100 people fleeing war-torn Syria to Rutland, Vermont.
Stacie Blake of the U.S. Committee for Refugees and Immigrants said Wednesday the group received notification that it had won approval to bring the refugees to Rutland, as well as more than 35 other sites around the country.
The plan has split Vermont's third largest city. Mayor Christopher Louras has argued that the influx of new residents will boost an ailing local economy.
Critics, including City Treasurer Wendy Wilton, say it will be difficult for a city of fewer than 17,000 residents to absorb 100 newcomers from a different language and culture.
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