Gov. Jay Inslee recently followed through on a recommendation by the Washington State’s Energy Site Evaluation Council to reject the proposed Vancouver Energy Oil Transfer Facility.
Inslee explained that he based his denial on specific public safety concerns that he believes are likely to create conflict with communities and environments of the lower Columbia River, and the state in general.
According to a press release from the Cowlitz Indian Tribe, the Vancouver Energy Transfer Facility also failed to fit the long-term goals and vision of the Cowlitz tribe. That press release read, in part:
“The Cowlitz people are stewards of the land. As such, we take our responsibility to protect the water, the fish, the birds, the people, of the region very seriously. Vancouver Energy would have operated for twenty years, but could have impacted the lower Columbia River ecosystems and communities for decades. We presented our concerns about air quality, water quality, and environmental quality. The Cowlitz Indian Tribe thanks the Governor for his decision to accept the Council’s recommendation.”
In the release, Cowlitz Tribal Chairman William Iyall added, “This project was at odds with our principles. The Cowlitz Indian Tribe is committed to working with local counties, cities, and ports to develop ethical, environmentally sensitive business opportunities that will create jobs and economic stability. We thank the Governor for his thoughtful and significant decision.”
