We are fully engaged in the rigorous review and permitting process mandated by the state of Washington. We remain wholly committed to completing the process, where all of the information about the proposed project – including what we learn in the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) and the resulting opportunities to address or mitigate concerns – will be considered by those charged with making a final recommendation to Governor Inslee.
The business community made itself very present at the public hearing on June 2, and we are grateful for the voices of support from across Vancouver, Clark County and the state of Washington. More than 100 letters and emails were sent to Mayor Leavitt and the members of the city council from business people and citizens. We were pleased to see their support during the public hearing. We also heard businesses say clearly they need certainty and predictability from the city. Jumping in front of an established and proven process creates uncertainty within the business community.
Going forward, we are confident that the EIS and the adjudicative phase of EFSEC’s robust permitting process will show the project will be designed, constructed and operated in a safe and environmentally responsible manner. We share the concerns expressed by the Port of Vancouver, local community advocates and business owners that not following this process could have far-reaching repercussions, including deterring future investment, which would stifle economic development.
As we have said many times, we think the city of Vancouver has an important voice in discussions about our project. We supported the resolution for the city to intervene in the EFSEC process. Intervention allows the city access to information and debate in a prescribed forum and holds all parties – businesses, citizens and government entities – accountable to established due process and procedures. The criteria-based process adopted by the state supports well-informed decisions based on facts and analysis.
We are committed to the safe and environmentally sound handling of crude oil, a product that is vital to the economic viability of Vancouver, the state of Washington and the nation. We have designed the proposed Vancouver Energy Distribution Terminal with industry-leading equipment and practices, supplemented by prevention, preparedness and response programs to ensure the safety of our team and the community.
Our commitment to the process will continue until EFSEC has finished its work and Governor Inslee makes his final decision. We thank the local businesses, economic development leaders and citizens who let the council know their concerns about the resolution to oppose our project.
Jared Larrabee is the general manager for the proposed Vancouver Energy Distribution Terminal.
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