2019-08-13 Update with IPATUpdate with IPAT
August 13, 2019
9:03 a.m.
Present: Commissioner Jackson, Commissioner Fund (by phone), Lee Napier, Norm Forsyth, Bob
Guenther, Frank DeVaul, Allyn Roe, Josh Metcalf, Commissioner Stamper (9:04 a.m.)
Recorder: Rieva Lester
Frank DeVaul gave a brief background on the Industrial Park at TransAlta (IPAT).
Frank said many businesses have looked at locating at IPAT but that they have chosen to locate
elsewhere. He said they are interested in incentives that Washington state simply doesn’t offer.
Allyn Roe discussed work to connect East Coast companies with Washington state properties to ease the
companies’ export into Asian markets.
Bob Guenther said the University of Washington will look at IPAT as a possible site when it performs its
biorefinery feasibility study, for which UW is poised to receive .09 (Distressed Counties) funding.
Commissioner Fund joined in person at 9:15 a.m.
Bob discussed the rail facilities available at Big Hanaford.
Josh Metcalf discussed work being done to secure funding for North Lewis County Industrial Access
project. He said the county is applying for a Build grant and .09 funding.
Josh discussed talks taking place regarding privately-owned rail lines
Commissioner Fund noted that the Port of Centralia has been invited but has stated that it is not
interested in the North County Interchange project.
Bob said the North County Interchange would help the Port of Centralia, especially considering the
increased truck traffic created by the new United Natural Foods warehouse.
Meeting adjourned at 9:36 a.m.