Critic of Vancouver oil terminal wins costly port race

VANCOUVER, Wash. – An outspoken critic of a proposed oil-by-rail terminal in Vancouver won a port commissioner race that may shape the project’s future.

The Columbian newspaper reported that Kris Greene, who was backed by project developers, conceded the election late Thursday night to Don Orange in the Port of Vancouver commissioner’s race.

The race drew more than $1 million in cash and in-kind contributions. It has been seen by some as a referendum on Vancouver Energy’s project along the Columbia River that would handle about 360,000 barrels of crude oil a day.

Orange captured 65 percent of the vote to Greene’s 35 percent as of Thursday afternoon.

Supported by environmental groups, Orange campaigned on ending the port’s lease with Vancouver Energy. The lease allows for changes by either party every 90 days.