As you may know, coal companies in Montana and Wyoming have been trying to export hundreds of millions of tons of coal from ports in Washington. In the proposal, Spokane could see 50 extra mile-and-a-half long, uncovered coal trains rumbling through our community every single day on their way to the ports. Parks, business districts, waterways, and neighborhoods like Browne’s Addition, the University District, and many other areas will be impacted

There's local devidence showing how diesel particulates from increased rail traffic will adversely effect our air quality and health. 

Now comes a moment of truth: Tonight, the Spokane City Council is considering passing a resolution requesting that agencies study and identify impacts to Spokane from proposed terminal projects and to hold a public hearing in Spokane as part of the required Environmental Impact Statement. 

The meeting starts at 6pm but arrive around 5:30 to sign. Spokane City Council Chambers are in the Lower Level of City Hall at 808 W Spokane Falls Blvd. Cities across Washington have passed similar resolutions - from Seattle to Washougal - and also cities in Oregon and Idaho. It's time for Spokane to speak out on this issue. 

I've said this before but it's important to mention again: That coal being shipped to China will be ten times the amount of coal used by Washington’s only coal-fired power plant, Trans-Alta in Centralia, which this year agreed to transition off coal by 2025. If we're moving forward on ridding ourselves of dirty energy, why turn back the clock now?

For more information, check out a great editorial in the Spokesman from Councilmember Amber Waldref and Dr. Robert Truckner. 

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