In the May 21 editorial, “Port officials should resign,” I believe The Columbian’s call for the Port of Vancouver commission and its executive director to resign is unjustified. The Port of Vancouver has done more to build the region’s economy and protect our community’s environment than any single entity in our area. The port’s effective operation and governance is demonstrated by its continued revenue and job growth, investment in infrastructure, and cleanup and restoration of contaminated property. Very importantly, as reported in The Columbian, the port received a perfect outcome from a recent state audit.
I think reasonable people can agree to disagree on the appropriateness of a large oil-handling facility at the port. There is a legitimate process that will determine if the oil terminal is permitted and located at the Port of Vancouver.
We also have elections that will determine the future makeup of the commission. I believe the commissioners are good people, and overall have done a great job for our community. Having the commission and executive director resign is unwarranted and would be a huge setback to the port, community, and region.
Jim Maul
Ridgefield
