Whether we have an oil terminal in Vancouver or not, many oil trains will come though our city, making their way to other terminals or refineries. Right now many train cars loaded with toxic chemicals wind their way through Vancouver every year. A derailment and spill of toxic chemicals or oil could be a serious incident for us. The opportunity for a derailment is not going away — with or without an oil terminal here. I suggest that the decision on the terminal would best be decided on two factors:
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Will it have any negative impact on the proposed waterfront development, which is important for Vancouver’s future?
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Will it affect the air quality or produce malodorous air?
I suggest that The Columbian send reporters to check out the air and odor quality at the terminal in Clatskanie, Ore., so that we do not rely only on the assurances of Tesoro.
Should the terminal eventually be approved, I hope The Columbian will use its voice urging that we demand more concessions, and perhaps taxes, from Tesoro and BNSF Railway to ensure proper handling of this cargo, and to help offset the costs of training for derailment recovery.
