One of the most exhaustive reviews of any project in this state, the environmental study of the Gateway shipping terminal in Whatcom County is unprecedented in its vast scope. The state of Washington has expanded the study far beyond its regular parameters.

Now, over a year into this expensive review, the regulatory agency is being asked to stop it in its tracks. Due to objections from the Lummi Nation, the Army Corps of Engineers is deciding whether to cancel the study.

What is the harm in completing this lawful process? Are the opponents fearful of what the science and facts will show about Gateway’s impact? And if this government agency is not willing to finish it, why on earth did they start it in the first place?

Gateway has committed to complying with all required laws and regulations, and modified their proposal to further improve compliance. I believe the environment and responsible industry can co-exist with this terminal.

The Cherry Point industries are among the most heavily regulated in the entire country. We can be sure that Gateway will be the same. I am well satisfied that the various impacts can be mitigated. But nothing will happen if the Army Corps decides to negate an orderly and lawful process that has worked well for countless years.

No business will consider locating in Whatcom County — or Washington State — knowing that any single group opposed to industry wields a big “no” vote that carries more weight than any other. No business can operate with this kind of unpredictability.

I urge the Army Corps to keep this process moving forward in a timely fashion, and to let the facts speak for the project, not innuendos and anti-business foes. It’s the right thing to do.

Gordon Jonasson

Lopez Island