City Council getting an earful on coal train issue
The city of Milwaukie has set up a special email address for citizens who want to provide City Council with input on a Port of Coos Bay proposal that would lead to coal being shipped through in mile-long, open-aired freight trains.
Momentum has been building for a resolution against the coal-train proposal over the past few weeks. Those who’d like to weigh in on this issue may contact the city through This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
Staff presented City Council with information on the proposal during Aug. 7, Sept. 4 and Sept. 25 work-session meetings, and citizens have been providing regular testimony during City Council’s regular sessions.
Mayor Jeremy Ferguson and Dr. Susan Katz of Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility are among the guests expected at a public Coal Hard Truth Forum from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 27, at the Milwaukie High School Auditorium, 11300 S.E. 23rd Ave.
Jody Schreffler, spokeswoman for the Milwaukie Coal Task Force, encouraged citizens to learn why neighborhood leaders and health professionals oppose coal trains through the city due to threats on health, climate, wildlife, oceans and freshwater fisheries.
“Coal export would impact Milwaukie traffic congestion, health, safety and quality of life,” Schreffler said.
Here are the next steps at City Hall, 10722 S.E. Main St., Milwaukie:
At 7 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 2, the Milwaukie Coal Task Force will give a presentation at City Council’s regular session. Councilors will deliberate and provide staff direction after public comment.
On Tuesday, Oct. 16, City Council will discuss a potential resolution during regular session at 7 p.m. They will again hear public comment prior to voting on a resolution that could be similar to resolutions recently passed by the city of Portland and Metro, to support recommendations made by Gov. John Kitzhaber and U.S. Sen. Jeff Merkley for further study of environmental and health impacts before allowing permits for development of coal export terminals.
