Thursday throwback

The obvious reality that oil refineries are not good neighbors (go to www.oilrefinerypollution.com) and contemplating expansion of one in a fragile wetlands ecosystem, knowing that sulfur dioxide is the principal precursor to acid rain and the risks to human health, is irresponsible and ultimately a formula for long-range health and environmental costs we can’t even begin to envision.

We’ve all driven through and, if possible around, cities or towns that choose to chase smokestacks for their economic vitality. Evidence is abundant that making billions in profits superseded quality of life considerations

For the sake of our health, we must choose wisely. It’s no longer a question of whether we can. Global indicators increasingly are telling us that the real question for the future is whether we should?!

http://www.superiortelegram.com/content/letter-refinery-expansion-would-degrade-city

 

excerpts from LETTER: Refinery expansion would degrade city

The Daily Telegram - 07/08/2008
To The Telegram:

From     — Paul D. Helbach,  Brule

 

Murphy Oil Corp.: Massive Capital ReinvestmentMassive profits spur equally massive facilities projects for Arkansas-based petroleum producer/refiner.
By Brad Kenney
Feb. 7, 2008 --http://www.industryweek.com/ReadArticle.aspx?ArticleID=15740

{{ Murphy's plans show that the company is looking to bulk up refining capacity along both the Gulf Coast and the North Coast (in Wisconsin) as well, and in doing so is attempting to refashion its Superior, Wis.-based refinery into what refinery manager Dave Podratz calls one of "the cleanest, most efficient refineries in the world." }}

What we want in St Bernard Parish is the entire refinery expansion plan and for the Meraux Refinery and terminal to also be the cleanest, most efficient refinery. We dont want our neighborhood subjected to their poor trackrecord of environmental and performance standards compliance.

Murphy can certainly afford to upgrade the refinery in St Bernard Parish, reveal the entire refinery expansion plan and make the Meraux Refinery at least complaint with environmental regulations and local codes and ordinances. With over 7,000 corporate wide employees, the meager 300 fulltime employees at Meraux doesnot equal the type of permanent jobs this area would want .