Let’s ship it, or someone else will

Regarding the article, “Marysville would be hurt by coal exports in Bellingham, panel says”: Building a coal terminal in Washington will assure that it is built to the highest standards to protect the ecosystem. Constructing and operating a port in Whatcom County will provide many jobs for Washingtonians and tax revenue for our state.

Jobs in construction have been difficult to find for at least the past three years. If the new coaling facility is not allowed to built in Washington, we will simply force it to be built elsewhere. China needs energy and will get it. A “not in my backyard” stance will not prevent coal from being shipped to Asia — it will simply export the taxes and jobs for construction and operating the terminal to another state or country.

Waiting a few minutes a few times a month for a train to pass is not much of a sacrifice if it helps our neighbors in Whatcom County.

If Marysville’s leadership wants to relieve traffic congestion, they could synchronize the traffic lights.

Ralph Gilcreest

Mukilteo

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