Richmond Secures $550 Million Settlement with Chevron: A Landmark Agreement for Community Investment and Corporate Accountability

Earlier today, the City Council unanimously approved a landmark $550 million settlement with Chevron Corporation. During the month of August, Vice Mayor Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Doria Robinson, and I have been negotiating with Chevron as part of a council ad-hoc committee concerning the 'Make Polluters Pay' tax, a ballot initiative was unanimously approved by the council in June to be placed before voters in the November election. These negotiations have resulted in a historic settlement that will bring $550 million into our community over the next decade. This funding will bolster our General Fund, enabling us to invest in infrastructure improvements, safety services, parks and open space maintenance, and a range of projects that address both the essential needs and the quality-of-life enhancements for all Richmond residents.

In any agreement, there are wins for both sides. The City of Richmond secured a guaranteed tax base for the next decade while avoiding costly litigation, and Chevron avoided a public ballot that could have questioned their tax contributions and potentially imposed even larger taxes.

I entered these negotiations determined to achieve the best possible outcome for Richmond. By securing a $550 million commitment—nearly double Chevron’s initial offer—we ensured our community’s needs would be met without the risks of prolonged litigation. Although I’m confident Richmond voters would have strongly supported the refinery tax measure in November, the example of Carson—where a similar tax has been tied up in court since 2017—highlighted the risks of prolonged legal battles. This settlement is not just a win for Richmond; it sets a powerful precedent for other communities, showing that by standing firm, we can hold corporations accountable while securing guaranteed financial support for our residents. Although this agreement marks just the beginning of Chevron’s responsibility to our city, it ensures that they will begin making progress towards paying their fair share without delay, allowing us to make timely investments in Richmond’s future.

We want to extend our deepest gratitude to the community members and organizations whose hard work and dedication brought this issue to the forefront. This victory is the culmination of decades of deep community organizing by countless environmental organizations and activists. The original ballot measure that led to this negotiation was a product of your hard work, advocacy, and vision for a better Richmond. In particular, the work done by Communities for a Better Environment (CBE) and the Asian Pacific Environmental Network (APEN) was instrumental in bringing Chevron to the table. Without your tireless efforts, this achievement would not have been possible.

To all the residents who stood up for our city, thank you. Your voices have been heard, and together, we have secured a brighter future for Richmond.

This settlement demonstrates what can be achieved when a community stands together. It is proof that our collective action can bring about real change, ensuring that our city is no longer just a place where corporations do business, but a place where the interests of the people come first.

In community,

Richmond Mayor Eduardo