Phillips 66’s actions are blatant example of corporate deception

Here’s a blatant example of corporate deception: During hearings on Phillips 66’s proposed crude oil by rail project, the company’s attorney attempted to lecture, admonish, even threaten San Luis Obispo County planning commissioners, saying that if they deny the project, oil will still arrive via trucks — as if much of it hasn’t always arrived by truck. A company representative nevertheless touted core values, including “honor.” He was followed by refinery employees whose sincere, gut-wrenching testimony showed they truly believe their jobs are in jeopardy by project denial.

Would an honorable, ethical, responsible employer allow employees to believe their jobs are in danger when the facts show otherwise? Citing solid evidence, the final environmental impact report concludes, “There is adequate crude supply for the Santa Maria Refinery even without the rail spur project.”

Why, then, are Phillips 66’s Houston corporate executives using their hard-working employees as tools in their quest to further nationwide crude-by-rail corporate objectives?

Planning commissioners will see past this ploy by Phillips 66 and deny the project. It was summed up best by a Cal Poly speaker, who noted citizens are overwhelmingly opposed to this project. The county has a duty to their citizens, and Phillips 66 is not a citizen.

This story was originally published February 18, 2016 at 4:14 AM with the headline "Phillips 66’s actions are blatant example of corporate deception."