Richmond city leaders voted unanimously late Tuesday in favor of a ballot measure that would ask voters whether Chevron should pay an additional tax for operating the refinery.
The City Council voted 7-0 to pass a new tax on oil refining operations aimed at Chevron, one of the world's largest oil companies, which will be on the November ballot.
Richmond's mayor and vice mayor said the new tax will bring in millions of dollars a year for the city.
Chevron, one of the world's largest oil companies, could end up paying big taxes to do business in the East Bay when Richmond city leaders are scheduled to vote Tuesday on a new tax on the company's refineries. Bob Redel reports.
City officials and environmental groups have accused the Chevron refinery of harming the local environment and nearby residents.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management Agency estimates that refinery emissions cause five to 11 premature deaths each year in Richmond.
Last month, Chevron told KQED that the proposed tax was hasty and driven by one-sided interests.
In response to the tax proposal, Chevron released the following statement ahead of Tuesday's vote:
“This is a punitive tax that could be used to fund pet projects of the activist council members who proposed it, and it was enacted with no accountability for how it is spent. We have been very responsive to city and community needs, working tirelessly to operate safely and securely, reduce our environmental impact, and support our communities.”
“We need policies that encourage investment, increase employment opportunities and improve air quality. This tax will have the opposite effect.”
The Western States Petroleum Association said the additional tax would further increase gasoline prices.
Chevron, one of the world's largest oil companies, could end up paying big taxes to do business in the East Bay when Richmond city leaders are scheduled to vote Tuesday on a new tax proposal for the company's refineries. Tom Jensen reports.
