For years, Contra Costa County residents have been exposed to toxic releases, fires, and hazardous pollution from the Martinez Refinery, owned by PBF Energy. The February 1, 2025, fire that injured six workers and forced a shelter-in-place order is just the latest in a long series of incidents, including 46 flaring events, 21 hazardous spills, and the illegal 2022 spent catalyst release that spread toxic dust over nearby homes and businesses. Communities across Contra Costa County breathe this pollution, workers face daily risks, and our local environment continues to suffer. But there’s an even bigger danger ahead: if this refinery suddenly shuts down, our county could be left with a toxic waste site and no funds for cleanup.

When fossil fuel companies abandon refineries, they often declare bankruptcy or walk away, leaving behind hazardous contamination that local governments—and taxpayers—must pay to clean up. If Contra Costa County fails to act, Martinez could become another environmental disaster site, harming property values, public health, and the future of communities throughout the county. But if the County requires PBF Energy to post a decommissioning and remediation bond before allowing continued operations, we can ensure the company—not taxpayers—pays for the mess it created.

The time to act is now. Every day the County delays, we risk being left with a toxic site and no financial safeguards. We demand that Contra Costa County require PBF Energy to set aside funds for decommissioning and cleanup before it’s too late.

This bond must:

• Fully cover the cost of hazardous material cleanup and site remediation.
• Be locked in a secure account so PBF Energy cannot evade responsibility through bankruptcy.
• Be based on an independent environmental assessment to determine the full extent of contamination.

The Martinez Refinery is under County jurisdiction, and the Board of Supervisors has the power and responsibility to act. If the County fails to take action, it will be taxpayers—not PBF Energy—who pay the price for decades of pollution.

Sign this petition today to demand that Contra Costa County put public health, environmental safety, and financial accountability ahead of corporate profits!