November 5, 2015

Yesterday, after a lengthy public hearing, Nick voted to support Commissioner Fritz’s Resolution to oppose crude oil shipments traveling by train through our community.

Over the last five years, the number of oil train shipments in the U.S. has increased dramatically. Oil shipments by rail have significant, adverse impacts on the health and safety of our community.

The Fritz Resolution was supported by a broad-based coalition, including Oregon Tribes, the city of Vancouver, The Columbia River Gorge Commission, First Responders, neighborhood leaders, environmentalists, and many others.

While this action is largely symbolic because federal laws prevent us from regulating railroads, it sends a clear message about our core values:  clean energy, public health and safety, and support of our regional partners.

Portland City Council Votes to Oppose Oil Trains

Cassandra Profita in OPB

Portland City Council adopts position against expanded oil shipments by train, delays fossil fuel export ban

Steve Law in the Portland Tribune

Portland Says No to Oil Trains and Delays Vote on Resolution to Oppose Fossil Fuel Infrastructure Expansion

Shelby R. King in the Portland Mercury