Portland City Hall Releases Draft Fossil Fuel Infrastructure Policy
Mayor Charlie Hales today announced that the draft fossil fuel infrastructure policy is now open for public comment.
The proposed draft prohibits all new bulk fossil fuel terminals with more than 5 million gallons of storage capacity. The existing 11 terminals in the Portland Harbor would become nonconforming uses, which would limit expansions to their current sites.
On Sept. 13, at 12:30 p.m., the Planning and Sustainability Commission (PSC) will hold a hearing on the proposed policy. You may testify about proposed changes to PSC in the following ways:
Testify in person at the PSC public hearing. You may speak for two minutes, and your testimony will be added to the public record.
Testify in writing until Sept. 13. Provide your full name and mailing address.
Email: psc@portlandoregon.gov with subject line “PSC Fossil Fuel Zoning Testimony”
U.S. Mail: Portland Planning and Sustainability Commission, Fossil Fuel Zoning Testimony, 1900 SW 4th Ave., Suite 7100, Portland OR 97201
The Bureau of Planning and Sustainability developed the proposed zoning code changes after the City Council in November 2015 unanimously passed Mayor Hales’ resolution, calling for opposition to the expansion of fossil fuel infrastructure. The intent was twofold: Protect public safety and the environment. Transporting fossil fuels is inherently dangerous, and fossil fuel terminals on the river’s edge are at of risk spills or explosions, especially during an earthquake.
“The effects of the oil train derailment in Mosier would pale in comparison to growing fossil fuel infrastructure along our river, after we’ve invested billions of dollars for cleanup,” Mayor Hales said.
“When the Pembina facility was proposed, we heard loud and clear from the community that Portland growth should align with our values. We need to send a clear message to the energy market that Portland is transitioning to a low-carbon economy powered by clean, renewable energy.”
Editors Note — One of the lead lobbyist for the Pembina Facility, Port of Portland Communications Director Kristen Leonard, now works as Chief of Staff for Oregon Governor Kate Brown
The resolution preceded the world climate conference in Paris, at which world leaders agreed to make a concerted, global effort to limit the planet’s warming before the effects of climate change reach a tipping point. The historic action came as Portland had record 90-degree days, and Oregon suffered widespread wildfires and severe drought.
Through sustainability efforts to date, Portland has reduced carbon emissions 21 percent from 1990 levels, while experiencing strong economic and population growth. The goal is to reduce carbon emissions by 80 percent by 2050.
“Portland is a world leader in climate action,” Mayor Hales said. “We were the first to adopt a climate action plan. We were the first to bring back the modern streetcar. Now we’ll be the first to deliberately transition from dirty, dangerous fuels to clean, renewable energy.”
