Dear Richmond City Council Members,

We are Richmond residents: families, workers, youth and elders. Some of our families came here recently as immigrants and refugees, while others have been here for generations.
We believe everyone deserves clean air and the resources to thrive. We're fighting for a city where our kids and grandkids will breathe clean air, celebrate birthdays in green parks, and have access to good union jobs and quality affordable housing.

We grew up in the shadows of the Chevron refinery. We breathe the air Chevron pollutes. For over 100 years, oil executives made billions while making our families, friends and neighbors sick. Big corporations polluted our neighborhoods for decades and profited, while we've been left with the damage to our health, our homes, and our future.
In California, the oil era is ending. Refineries are closing across the state. Too often, communities like ours get little warning, and fossil fuel companies walk away with no cleanup plan, leaving taxpayers on the hook for millions.

We know Chevron's days in Richmond are numbered, and it's time to plan for what comes next.

We don't all agree on every solution, but we believe decisions about this money must be made openly, with clear rules, and real opportunities for all Richmond residents to participate.

The people most impacted by Chevron's pollution, including refinery neighbors, workers, Black and Brown communities, immigrants, youth, and elders, must have a real voice in shaping these investments. This means multiple ways to participate, clear criteria for decisions, and public accountability at every step.

We urge the City Council to continue this good first step by ensuring the community investment process remains transparent, accountable, and centered on Richmond residents. This settlement belongs to all of Richmond. Our responsibility is to spend it transparently, wisely, and in ways residents can feel in their daily lives, while preparing for the day Chevron is gone.