We have three critical updates on the CEI (Critical Energy Infrastructure) Hub in our community. These developments are urgent, and your support is crucial:

1. CEI Hub Public Awareness Campaign

• Schedule a CEI Hub Task Force presentation or Q&A by replying to this email or at  ceitaskforce@gmail.com
• Watch this short, 4 min. video explaining the CEI Hub and why action is needed. Stop The Spill Video — Re:Solve NW

2. Support the Proposed Risk Bonding Ordinance

This week Multnomah County commissioners will hold a briefing on a proposed ordinance to require CEI Hub operators to carry risk bonds –  financial guarantees that they will cover the costs of emergency response and recovery in the event of a fuel or hazardous material spill. See Nov. 7 agenda, item R.4.  Without financial responsibility guarantees, those costs will fall on residents and taxpayers. Risk bonds are commonly required in other industries, such as construction and home repair.

We need to let the county chair and commissioners know that there’s community-wide support for risk bonding. 3 things you can do:

• Show Your Support: Multnomah County commissioners will discuss an ordinance requiring CEI Hub operators to carry risk bonds, ensuring they cover spill response costs, not taxpayers. Attend a county meeting on Nov. 14 or Nov. 21 at 9:30 am in the Multnomah Building (501 SE Hawthorne Blvd.). Wear RED to show solidarity! Verify the agenda posted at the beginning of each week here!
• Take Action: Sign the support letter for Neighborhood Associations or contact commissioners via County contact info.

3. Voice Your Concerns on Zenith Energy’s Permit

Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality [DEQ] is taking public comments until Dec. 16 on Zenith Energy’s application for an Air Contaminant Discharge Permit for their CEI Hub operations. The problems associated with Zenith’s operations were one of the six points raised in the joint letter your NA signed earlier this year. 

It’s important to hold DEQ accountable for protecting public and environmental health and safety. 3 things you can do:

• First, learn more about Zenith’s operations and the current situation, here.
• Sign a petition calling on DEQ to deny Zenith’s Air Contaminant Discharge Permit, here.
• Come to the DEQ public hearing on Tues., Nov. 19.  Rally at 6pm; Hearing from 7-9pm. Buckley Center Auditorium, University of Portland. Or join via zoom.  More info here.
• In advance of the public hearing, attend the Rumble on the River Zenith Comment-Writing Workshop on Wed., Nov. 13, 7:00-8:00pm. This session will provide background, talking points and comment writing tips. –zoom link

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You can let us know that you’re signing on to the attached letter, schedule a presentation, or ask for further information by replying to this e-mail or to ceitaskforce@gmail.com