GROTON, Conn. -- A group of Groton residents claim that they are being sued for protesting the construction of a Wal-Mart Supercenter.

Wal-Mart already has a center on Route 184 in Groton, but Channel 3 Eyewitness News reporter Kevin Hogan reported that the retail giant wants to build a larger store up the street.

Hogan reported that the project's developer received initial approval from the town, but not all of its residents are pleased with the deal.

Peggy Burdo said she was awakened Saturday by a sheriff serving her with a lawsuit. Burdo said the lawsuit claims that she and five other neighbors near Route 184 are interfering with the development of Wal-Mart's proposed store.

"If I'm going to be sued for my opinion, I think I should countersue. Hey, I don't want Wal-Mart, so why can't I sue you for saying 'Yes' and forcing it upon me?" Burdo said.

Burgos said the construction of another Wal-mart would create more traffic, putting about 13,000 more vehicles per week on what she said is already a busy highway.

"They put a lot of people out of business, and it's going to be more of a problem than what it is a help to have them in the area," Burdo said.

Wal-Mart told Eyewitness News that it has no comment on the issue.

Developer Knoover told Eyewitness News that the petition is a legal formality, allowing them to appeal their case to the town.

"They may get a tax break. Who's going to take care of snow removal, extra police when crime hits? That comes to us, the taxpayers," Burdo said.

The protestors' court date in New London is scheduled for March 20.

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