Let’s look at the Port of Vancouver and think about that old adage “follow the money.” Commissioners make so little (less than $10,000 per year), and Executive Director Todd Coleman makes so much (around $200,000 per year). Guess who is making the decisions and who are the rubber stamps.
Coleman’s goals are profits so that he can keep that great pay. One “little” safety slip, like the Tesoro-Savage contract recommendation, might go unnoticed when compared with the wonderful profits from the oil terminal. Unless we have commissioners who are as interested in safety, the environment and the community as a whole, Coleman can continue to drive for profit first.
Eric LaBrant, president of the Fruit Valley Neighborhood Association, has shown an interest in the port for years. He spoke out early and strongly for a safe port. LaBrant is not adverse to profit, given his business background, but he has the ability to balance that profit statement with a safety statement.
Susan Greb
Vancouver
