The latest from city hall. As just an average person, I’d like to hear some explanations from those in opposition about how and where oil and gas should be transported.
I’m an agnostic on this issue, but, as someone who observes that it takes oil/gas to run the modern world and even build bicycles, I’d like to hear more than just “Not here, thanks.”
Anyway, the news release:
(Vancouver) – Vision Vancouver is introducing two motions, one at City Council and one at Park Board, opposing the massive expansion of the Kinder Morgan pipeline and outlining next steps to protect Vancouver.
Mayor Gregor Robertson is bringing forward a motion for next Tuesday’s Council meeting that formally opposes the expansion, and asks staff to prepare a by-law requiring pipeline operators and oil tankers using Burrard Inlet, Vancouver Harbour and/or the Fraser River to indemnify the City of Vancouver at levels equivalent to a worst-case spill.
“I am very strongly opposed to Kinder Morgan’s plans for a five-fold increase in oil tanker traffic through Vancouver,” said Mayor Gregor Robertson. “We will use absolutely every tool at our disposal to protect Vancouver’s vibrant local economy and natural environment from the enormous risks posed by the threat of a catastrophic oil spill.”
Vision Vancouver park commissioner Niki Sharma has introduced a motion, scheduled for next Monday’s Park Board meeting, for the Board to formally state its strong opposition to any expansion of the pipeline and fulfill its mandate to preserve and protect our green spaces.
“Future generations deserve the same opportunities we have today to enjoy Vancouver’s treasured beaches, parks, and natural environment – especially Vancouver jewels such as Stanley Park,” said Commissioner Sharma. “A five-fold increase in super-tankers through Vancouver simply poses too extreme a risk to our sensitive local coastline and the strong Vancouver
economy it supports.”
Mayor Robertson outlines his opposition to the pipeline expansion proposal in detail in an op-ed in today’s Vancouver Sun.