June 04, 2015 - 5:18 PM
KAMLOOPS - The Thompson-Nicola Regional District Board of Directors at their May 28 regular meeting voted in favour of supporting the proposed Trans Mountain Expansion Project, which involves twinning the existing Trans Mountain pipeline. The vote was prompted by a motion brought forward by Sun Peaks Mayor, and TNRD Director, Al Raine.
Director Raine brought forward the motion to address safety and environmental concerns around the increased reliance on rail for the transportation of petroleum products from source to market, particularly within the TNRD. Raine cited forecasts that indicate that rail transportation of oil within Western Canada will increase from 200,000 tanker cars in 2013 to 700,000 tanker cars in 2016, and similar increases can be anticipated throughout the Regional District.
The Resort Municipality of Sun Peaks is not along the proposed pipeline corridor and the community has taken a neutral stance on the project.
Other reasons cited in Director Raine’s motion include:
- The existing pipeline’s robust safety record in the Regional District over the past 60 years, including no significant incidents.
- The economic opportunities the Trans Mountain Expansion Project will bring to the TNRD through local investments, property taxes, landowner compensation and regional employment during both the construction and operational phases.
Electoral Area 'P' (Rivers and the Peaks) Director Mel Rothenburger and Electoral Area ’N’ (Beautiful Nicola Valley – South) Director Herb Graham recused themselves from the vote due to conflict-of-interest concerns.
News from © iNFOnews, 2015