Dear Editor:
Regarding Richardson International's proposed expansion of its North Shore grain terminal (City To Lobby Port Over Grain Silo Expansion, Oct. 28, North Shore News): Port Metro Vancouver is undertaking a massive expansion of North Shore port facilities. Everything that Richardson gets away with, Neptune, Cargill and others will get away with, too.
Richardson's proposal is promoted as a benefit to all Canadians because it positions Canada to be a global player in international commodities markets. The reality is that specific Canadians, namely grain farmers, CN Rail and Richardson International will pocket increased profits at the expense of certain North Shore residents whose quality of life will be directly damaged by the expansion. Why won't Richardson seriously address the concerns of this group?
Richardson has provided an impact study on view, noise and shade assessment that distorts the real impact of the project. The company's position is: no alternate site proposals; no compensation for property value losses; no accountability for safety, noise and air pollution impacts; no baseline studies and no long-term monitoring.
The port has reviewed comments received to date from the City of North Vancouver and North Shore residents. It has asked Richardson to provide an alternative options report, a mitigations report and benefit statements.
On Nov. 30, Richardson announced it will be holding just two public open houses in the new year to provide additional information, without a commitment to discuss and respond to the community's specific concerns through additional stakeholder meetings.
This looks like a continuation of a one-way conversation.
Charles and Marlene Goodbrand North Vancouver
