EUGENE, Ore. (AP) -- The debate over coal trains traveling through Eugene is one of jobs versus the environment.
A couple of dozen coal train protesters marched to the downtown library Monday evening where the city council heard a number of people testify for a resolution against shipping coal through a Coos Bay terminal to Asia. Opponents are concerned about coal dust and climate change.
The council also heard from supporters who said a $250 million coal terminal would bring needed jobs.
The Register-Guard reports it's unclear it Eugene would have authority to prevent coal shipments. The council votes in two weeks on a resolution that would direct the city attorney to research whether health and safety laws could be used to block coal trains.
The coal would come from Montana and Wyoming.
