Regarding his March 23 local view, “Job-creation aspect lost in oil terminal debate,” Arch Miller has served on the Port of Vancouver commission and knows how important it is to attract good jobs to our community. He has it exactly right. The jobs created by the proposed oil transload facility will have a significant impact on our community. At least a $6 million annual payroll impact. In addition, there would be a one-time annual payroll of over $10 million for its construction. Moreover, probably an additional 300 jobs would be created by the multiplier effect.
Critics dismiss the number of jobs as insignificant. They are not insignificant to the 20,000 of our fellow citizens in the county who go to bed every night without a job and wanting one. These folks do not want a handout, just a hand up; 300 to 400 total new jobs will help with a hand up. As a Port of Vancouver commissioner, I applaud Miller and his Northwest Railway Institute for recognizing the need for skilled workers in a vital industry and doing something about it.
Jerry Oliver
Vancouver