You may have seen editorials and comments claiming that “special interests” from California and Arizona are behind the opposition to the EXXON/SAUDI facility. Let’s set the record straight.
In October 2016, residents from Portland and Gregory organized in opposition to the granting of $1.3 Billion in tax abatements for this project. Over the last 18 months, residents from Corpus Christi, Rockport and Bayside have joined the battle against the air and water permits for the facility. We have called attention to the use of 7.3 billion gallons of water each year, potential flooding from the stormwater, the introduction of hot industrial wastewater into Corpus Christi bay, and polyethylene pellets into two bay systems.
We are local; we are Republican, Democrat, and Independent; we are conservatives, moderates, and liberals; we are retirees; we are executives, professional and blue collar; we are teachers, nurses, small business; we are parents and grandparents; we fish, we bird, we shrimp; we sail, surf and parasail; our kids play football, soccer, run track, and excel in academics.
This struggle to preserve our health, the quality of our ecosystem, and our communities began here. Our efforts have now drawn national and international attention and we welcome their support.
So, to be clear…we are local, we are Texans, and our interests ARE special…kids, air, bays, and birds, ecotourism and community.
Portland Citizens United members held a #NoExxon Rally on a COLD day in January 2017.