Oil Processing Facility Public Comment is Now

Tacoma Power seeks a conditional use permit for a new mineral oil dielectric fluid processing and storage facility on South 74th Street.  Our tipster noted that the proposed site is surrounded by residential neighborhoods and Mt. Tahoma High School.  Is it a problem?  Maybe.  Maybe not.  There is a potential fire and oil spill risk.  From what we understand this type of oil is a source of PCBs.  Our first thought was that… we need power.  This is a part of it.  Except it does appear that there is a bio-based alternative, albeit one that is 20-30% more expensive than the old fashioned type.  The public comment period is open until October 2nd.  If you have a concern, make yourself heard. 

Link to the Public Notice (pdf)