Why build fuel dock for port?

What do sports stadiums, convention centers, and fuel docks have in common? The answer is that public money and tax money is used to build them.

Public relations statements always inform us that the construction is for the public good. But the truth is that these facilities need tax money year after year to stay operational.

The city of Olympia or the Port of Olympia should not build a public fuel dock if it does not pay for itself. Boaters will continue to go elsewhere to fill their tanks with cheaper fuel, and the taxpayers are left with a money losing facility.

This story was originally published January 29, 2016 at 8:46 AM with the headline "Why build fuel dock for port?."