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The prospect of
train cars carrying millions of tons of coal mined in Utah
through Oakland before heading to Asian markets has inflamed
passions in the city.
Opponents argue it will harm health and exacerbate climate
change. Proponents say it will provide good jobs in an
impoverished area.
"Oaklanders know it's a false choice to say we have to pick
between jobs and this community's health and safety," Oakland
Mayor Libby Schaaf, a leading opponent to the shipments, said
before the vote.
Jerry Bridges, president of Terminal Logistics Solutions, which
would operate the facility, said banning a legal commodity like
coal sends the wrong signal about Oakland.
"This type of regulation is not necessary, it kills jobs, and it
does not protect the image of our city as being open for
business and growth," he told the council.
A lawsuit is expected from businesses associated with shipping
the coal and petroleum coke through the terminal.
Environmental groups in 2015 sued to stop construction of the
terminal, which is proposed for a former U.S. Army base.
(Editing by Nick Macfie)
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