For Immediate Release. August 23, 2010.

LNG Opponents Prepare to Challenge Oregon LNG Land Use Decision

Astoria, OR – A Hearings Officer approved a land use application for Oregon LNG despite extensive evidence that the liquefied natural gas (LNG) pipeline harms forests, farms, and salmon.  A coalition of citizen groups is preparing to challenge the Hearing Officer’s recommendation.  The Clatsop County Planning Department and independent experts hired by the County both recommended denial of the Oregon LNG pipeline because it does not comply with local land use law.  Contrary to these recommendations, the Hearings Officer approved the pipeline. 

The County land use approval is one of dozens of necessary permits for the Oregon LNG project to proceed.

Cheryl Johonson, a retired school librarian and Clatsop County resident stated, “We are disappointed in the conclusion of the Hearings Officer.  We agree with County staff and the vast majority of public testimony that the Oregon LNG pipeline is unnecessary and destructive to our river and our communities.  There is no question that the people of Clatsop County oppose LNG, and we hope the County Commission steps in and denies this pipeline.”

Brett VandenHeuvel, executive director of Columbia Riverkeeper, anticipated that the decision would face additional scrutiny.  “This decision contradicts public testimony from fishermen, affected landowners and even Clatsop County’s own staff.  We think that this project fundamentally conflicts with the County’s land use law.”

Added VandenHeuvel, “At a time when LNG import terminals are actively switching to export and when state leaders have repeatedly said there is no need for LNG, there is simply no way to justify the massive disruption and damage that this pipeline would cause in Clatsop County.  We will fight this project at every step.”

Oregon LNG’s pipeline drew heavy criticism during public hearings because of the damage it would cause to local farms, forests, and rivers.  Public agencies such as the Elsie-Vinemaple Fire District, ODOT and Oregon Dept. of Forestry raised concerns about the project and its impact on local roads, fire risks, and emergency services.

Today’s decision can be appealed to the Clatsop County Commission.  The County Commission’s decision can then be appealed to the Oregon Land Use Board of Appeals (LUBA).

“This is starting to look like Bradwood all over again,” stated VandenHeuvel.  Clatsop County previously approved similar land use applications for Bradwood Landing LNG, but these approvals were twice overturned by LUBA.