Multnomah County officials are taking significant steps toward enhancing environmental safety and risk management with the proposed ordinance addressing financial assurance for above-ground storage tanks. During the regular meeting on November 21, 2024, stakeholders voiced their support and concerns regarding the ordinance, which aims to hold operators accountable for potential spills and environmental hazards.

Key discussions highlighted the need for stronger penalties for non-compliance, with some advocates suggesting a daily fine of at least $25,000. Concerns were raised about the adequacy of the financial assurance mechanisms, specifically the exclusion of self-insurance and captive insurance options. Additionally, the ordinance's provisions on how financial assurance would be accessed in the event of a spill were deemed insufficient, prompting calls for clearer guidelines on the county's authority to enforce financial responsibility.

Chris West, representing the Working Waterfront Coalition, emphasized the importance of aligning local regulations with federal and state requirements, particularly in light of potential risks from seismic events. He criticized the rushed nature of the ordinance, arguing that it did not adequately address the specific shortfalls that could arise from such disasters.

John Isaacs from the Portland Metro Chamber expressed support for the urgency of the ordinance but cautioned against hastily implementing a flawed policy. He underscored the need for comprehensive stakeholder engagement to ensure that the final policy is effective and equitable.

Public testimony also included calls for relocating storage tanks away from vulnerable riverbanks to prevent potential environmental disasters. Lightning, a community advocate, urged for a proactive approach to mitigate risks rather than relying solely on insurance policies after incidents occur.

Commissioners acknowledged the urgency of the situation but expressed concerns about the ordinance's current state, citing the need for thorough vetting and community engagement. Commissioner Stegman highlighted the importance of addressing the concerns raised by various stakeholders before moving forward.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit the ordinance, allowing time for amendments and further discussions. The board aims to ensure that the final policy is robust, legally sound, and capable of effectively managing the risks associated with above-ground storage tanks in Multnomah County.