Wednesday, September 16: mark your calendar! This may be your final opportunity to say your piece to the City Council about CEI Hub issues! The Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) has announced that public testimony will be accepted in writing on the CEI HUB Safety Policy until September 16th at 5 pm. Advocates will be preparing talking points, available by the second week in September to be used for written testimony; email info@xrpdx.org for those.
BPS, industry, and climate advocates intend to present at Council’s afternoon meeting starting at 2 pm that same day. (Public testimony may be delayed until a later date, although this is not confirmed). This is our best chance to encode better safety provisions in the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Zoning Code, and also improve upon the proposed Liquid Fuels Drawdown plan. Currently, the drawdown of fuels would not go into effect until 2036! PLEASE WEAR RED and spread the word! A large turnout at this Council meeting will show strong support for our public safety/climate advocates panel and the progressive amendments.
Key issues for the parts of the proposed plan:
Comprehensive Plan-Definition to include all flammable, combustible and toxic materials, not just liquid fuels. Stronger, enforceable language that could hold up to Land Use Board of Appeals scrutiny. A clear goal of “phasing out” liquid fuels at this site. Stronger language about transitioning to a ‘clean energy’ economy. Prioritized, required increased safety, risk reduction, and prohibited expansion.
Zoning Code- Prohibiting expansion or expansion loopholes. Urge Council to adopt Coalition language especially on sections 33.140260 and 33.870. No blanket exemptions except through a Type III review process (currently aviation fuel and NW Natural gas are exempt). No transfers, only through Type III review using criteria put forward with Coalition language.
Drawdown (Title 17)- Gather data for the past three years by year-end. Take action ASAP for significant volume- based drawdown –10-20% in 2027 instead of waiting a decade. Continue in line with what climate scientists and State of Oregon goals suggest, with 3- or 5- year phased drawdowns. No exemptions for Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) or “natural gas” (methane), except through Type III review process. Penalties section is far too weak; Coalition has replacement language.
