Update May 12, 2015: Public hearing on June 10, 2015 canceled and will not be rescheduled.
Columbia Riverkeeper’s Executive Director, Brett VandenHeuvel, stated:
“This is a great day for the people of Portland and the Columbia River. Mayor Hales listened to and respected the overwhelming public testimony against Pembina, including concerns over public safety, climate, and our environment. Portlanders should be proud of standing up to dirty fossil fuels, and winning. Mayor Hales and the City of Portland showed strong leadership today.”
Portland’s stance against Pembina reflects the larger regional movement of municipalities opposing dirty and dangerous fossil fuel projects. Mayor Hales' position is informed by the thousands of people who opposed Pembina, as well as Portland's longshore union (ILWU Local 8), dozens of neighborhood associations, faith and community groups. Special thanks to the Audubon Society of Portland for steadfast work to protect Portland's environment.
About Columbia Riverkeeper
Columbia Riverkeeper’s mission is to protect and restore the water quality of the Columbia River and all life connected to it, from the headwaters to the Pacific Ocean. Representing over 8,000 members and supporters, Columbia Riverkeeper works to restore a Columbia River where people can safely eat the fish they catch, and where children can swim without fear of toxic exposure. The organization is a member of Waterkeeper Alliance, the world’s fastest growing environmental movement, uniting more than 200 Waterkeeper organizations worldwide. For more information go to columbiariverkeeper.org.
Supporting Documents:
- City of Portland Press Release: Mayor Hales Advises Pembina to Withdraw Proposal
- Fact sheet from: ILWU, Columbia Riverkeeper, Audubon Society of Portland