Oil train coverage biased

I was disappointed in the bias presented in your front-page article (Oct. 29) on the Washington Department of Ecology hearing about the impending increase in oil train traffic. While you correctly reported on Spokane Valley Fire Department Deputy Chief Andy Hail’s excellent testimony on the need for better preparedness for our first responders, and on several other officials’ testimonies, you completely neglected to report on the legitimate concerns of dozens and dozens of people who expressed concern about the impact of oil – and coal – transport on the health and safety of their children and our community.

It was obvious that a vast majority of the 200-some people present don’t think that increased fossil-fuel train traffic is in the best interest of our regional community. While it is obvious that your editors do not agree with them, it is grossly unfair not to report their concerns about a train derailment/explosion like the recent one that occurred in Quebec, Canada.

All these people did take time to show up and express themselves; it was irresponsible not to have reported their views.

Ronald J. White Sr.

Spokane