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RICHMOND, CALIFORNIA,
January 27, 2026, 5:00 p.m.
Community Services Building
440 Civic Center Plaza
Richmond, CA 94804
_____________________________________________________________________
A. SPECIAL OPEN SESSION TO HEAR PUBLIC COMMENT BEFORE CLOSED
SESSION
Mayor Eduardo Martinez called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.
B. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Soheila Bana, Jamelia Brown, Claudia Jimenez, Sue Wilson, Cesar Zepeda, Vice Mayor Doria Robinson, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez. Absent:
None.
C. CLOSED SESSION
C.1 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION (paragraph (1) of Subdivision [d] of Government Code Section 54956.9) • Washington v. City of Richmond
• Gutzalenko v. City of Richmond, et al.
C.2 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Government Code
Section 54957.6)
• Agency Representatives: Sharrone Taylor, Jack Hughes, and Lisa Charbonneau
Employee organizations:
1. SEIU Local 1021 Full Time Unit and Part Time Unit
2. IFPTE Local 21 Mid-Level Management Unit and Executive Management Units
3. Richmond Police Officers Association RPOA
4. Richmond Police Management Association RPMA
5. IAFF Local 188
6. Richmond Fire Management Association RFMA
D. PUBLIC COMMENT BEFORE CLOSED SESSION (limited to items on the Closed Session agenda only)
Cordell Hindler gave comments regarding union negotiations.
E. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Open Session adjourned at 5:02 p.m. Closed Session adjourned at 6:00 p.m.
F. REGULAR MEETING OF THE RICHMOND CITY COUNCIL
Mayor Eduardo Martinez called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m.
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G. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Eduardo Martinez led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag.
H. ROLL CALL
Present: Councilmembers Jamelia Brown, Claudia Jimenez, Sue Wilson, Cesar Zepeda, Vice Mayor Doria Robinson, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez. Absent: Councilmember Soheila Bana arrived after the roll was called.
I. STATEMENT OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
None.
J. AGENDA REVIEW
Study and Action Session was rearranged as follows: Item P.5 - Update on Advanced Life Support (ALS) First Responder Services, Fire Station upgrades and replacements, associated, five-year financial forecast, and develop revenue enhancement recommendations was moved up to be heard first; Item P.3 - Consultant engagement for community input on Polluters Pay Settlement Funds and Item P.4 - Community meetings to gather community input on how to spend the community money, Chevron Community Funds were combined and moved to be heard second; Item P.2 - Contract amendment for the Fiscal Yar 2024-25 Grade 5 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project was moved to be heard third; and Item P.1 - Modification of City Council Liaison appointment cycle for Boards and Commissions was moved to be heard last.
K. REPORT FROM THE CITY ATTORNEY OF FINAL DECISIONS MADE
DURING CLOSED SESSION
C.1 CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL - EXISTING LITIGATION (paragraph (1) of Subdivision [d] of Government Code Section 54956.9) • Washington v. City of Richmond
• Gutzalenko v. City of Richmond, et al.
The item was discussed. No final action was taken.
C.2 CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS (Government Code Section 54957.6)
• Agency Representatives: Sharrone Taylor, Jack Hughes, and Lisa Charbonneau Employee organizations:
1. SEIU Local 1021 Full Time Unit and Part Time Unit
2. IFPTE Local 21 Mid-Level Management Unit and Executive Management Units
3. Richmond Police Officers Association RPOA
4. Richmond Police Management Association RPMA
5. IAFF Local 188
6. Richmond Fire Management Association RFMA
The item was discussed. No final action was taken.
L. REPORT FROM THE CITY MANAGER (public comment allowed under Open Forum)
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City Manager, Shasa Curl presented the report.
Link to the report: City Manager Report
M. COMMENDATIONS, PRESENTATIONS, AND PROCLAMATIONS
M.1 Proclamation Honoring the 2025 Richmond Women of the Year PROCLAMATION recognizing the 2025 Richmond Women of the Year – Councilmember Cesar Zepeda (510-620-6593).
Mayor Martinez and councilmembers presented the proclamation to the 2025 Women of the Year.
Cordell Hindler, Antwon Cloird, and Harpreet Sandhu gave comments.
N. OPEN FORUM FOR PUBLIC COMMENT
(public comment on items that remain on the Consent Calendar or items not on the agenda - limited to 2 minutes unless otherwise specified - Back and forth dialogue with the Council is prohibited)
Don Gosney gave comments regarding decisions that elected officials make that can affect others negatively.
Cordell Hindler gave comments regarding the workforce analysis and stated that more police officers were needed in the city. Mr. Hindler also stated that students at Salesian College Preparatory should be acknowledged for their participation in their day of service.
Antwon Cloird stated that the City of Richmond has a substandard fire training center.
Mark Wassberg gave comments regarding the situation with immigration enforcement in Minnesota. Mr. Wassberg also stated that the federal government would withhold funds from sanctuary cities.
Fayza Ayyad thanked Mayor Martinez for being strong against the odds and the unfortunate division currently across the world.
Mayor Martinez asked the community to donate to the Snowball Scholarship Fund.
Checks could be sent to the Hurlbut Benevolent Foundation P.O. Box 70902 Richmond, CA 94807 or by e-mailing https://www.hurlbutfoundation.org/snow-ball.
Janice Haugan gave comments regarding zero tolerance for illegal fireworks in the city.
Benjamin Therriault gave comments regarding the leave status of officers who were involved in police officer involved shootings and the need to return the officers to duty.
O. CITY COUNCIL CONSENT CALENDAR
(All items placed under the Consent Calendar are considered to be routine and noncontroversial. These items will be enacted upon together with a motion and second, without discussion, of any member of the City Council, and each item shall be deemed to have received the action recommended.)
Motion by Councilmember Claudia Jimenez
Seconded by Councilmember Soheila Bana
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Ayes (7): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Councilmember Cesar Zepeda, Vice Mayor Doria Robinson, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez Passed
O.1 City Council
O.1.a Resolution in Solidarity with the People of Iran in Their Struggle for Human Rights, Economic Justice, and Democratic Freedoms ADOPT a resolution expressing the City of Richmond’s solidarity with the people of Iran in their ongoing struggle for human rights, freedom, and economic justice; condemning violence against peaceful protesters; and affirming the City's commitment to a "Hands Off Iran" policy that opposes foreign military intervention and supports the Iranian people’s right to self-determination - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490).
Adopted Resolution No. 7-26.
O.1.b Proclamation Honoring the Legacy of Douglas Ellison and Inez Watson and Recognizing the Work of the Watson Ellison Foundation in Alzheimer's and Dementia Awareness
PROCLAMATION honoring Douglas Ellison and Inez Watson for their distinguished service and lasting contributions to the Richmond community and recognizing the work of the Watson Ellison Foundation in raising awareness and supporting families impacted by Alzheimer's disease and dementia - Councilmember Soheila Bana (510-672-3490).
O.2 Finance Department
O.2.a Fiscal Year 2025-26 Quarter 1 Budget Report
RECEIVE the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 Quarter 1 (Q1) report for the period of July 1, 2025, through September 30, 2025 – Finance Department (Emily Combs 510-620-6790/Mubeen Qader 510-412-2077/Jerry Gurule 510-620-6591).
O.3 Human Resources
O.3.a Approve Salary Schedules in Accordance with California Code of Regulations 570.5(a) (2 CCR § 570.5)
ADOPT a resolution amending the salary schedules for all unions to comply with California Code of Regulations, Subchapter 1, Employees’ Retirement System Regulations section 570.5 (a) (2 CCR § 570.5) as required by CalPERS – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602).
Adopted Resolution No. 8-26.
O.3.b Amend Salary Schedule
ADOPT a resolution amending the salary schedule to add the salary range for the City Attorney classification – Human Resources Department (Nickie Mastay/Sharrone Taylor 510-620-6602).
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Adopted Resolution No. 9-26.
O.3.c Approve Salaries and Benefits of Unrepresented Executive Management Classifications
ADOPT a resolution to approve changes to salaries and benefits of Unrepresented Management employees, consistent with the changes to salaries and benefits of represented management, Executive Management International Federation of Professional and Technical Engineers (IFPTE) Local 21 Bargaining Unit employees and DIRECT the city manager or their designee to update the publicly available salary schedule – Internal Services (Nickie Mastay 510-620-6602).
Adopted Resolution No. 10-26.
O.4 Library and Community Services
O.4.a Contract Amendment No. 1 with Nor-Cal Moving Services for Additional Moving and Storage Services
APPROVE the first contract amendment with Nor-Cal Moving Services increasing the payment limit to $44,500, and modifying the service plan to include storage services, and extending the contract expiration date to June 30, 2028 - Community Services Department (Kate Eppler 510-610- 5452/LaShonda White 510-620-6828).
O.5 Mayor's Office
O.5.a Proclamation recognizing January 27, 2026, as International Holocaust Remembrance Day.
PROCLAMATION recognizing January 27th as International Holocaust Remembrance Day in the City of Richmond – Mayor Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503) and Councilmember Cesar Zepeda (510-620-6593).
O.5.b Proclamation recognizing February 2026 as Black History Month in Richmond
PROCLAMATION declaring February 2026 as Black History Month in the City of Richmond – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510- 620-6503).
O.5.c Appointment of Lorene Ransbottom to the Commission on Aging APPOINT Lorene Ransbottom to the Commission on Aging with a term that expires on May 19, 2030 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
O.5.d Appointment of Beverly A. Dynes to the Commission on Aging APPOINT Beverly A. Dynes to a vacant seat on the Commission on Aging with a term that expires on May 19, 2030 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
O.5.e Appointment of Regina Whitney to the Commission on Aging APPOINT Regina Whitney to the Commission on Aging with a term that expires on May 19, 2030 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510- 620-6503).
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O.5.f Appointment of Linda Whitmore to the Richmond Zhoushan Friendship Commission.
APPOINT Linda Whitmore to the Richmond Zhoushan Friendship Commission with a term that expires on December 31, 2028 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
O.5.g Appointment of Free Brown to the Workforce Development Board APPOINT Free Brown to the Workforce Development Board with a term that expires on March 1, 2030 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
O.5.h Appointment of Ana Tellez Witrago to the Community Police Review Commission
APPOINT Ana Tellez Witrago to the Community Police Review Commission to fill a vacant seat with an unexpired term ending November 1, 2027 – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503).
O.6 Police Department
O.6.a Richmond Police Department Monthly Crime Report for December 2025 RECEIVE the monthly Crime Report from the Richmond Police Department for December 2025 – Police Department (Chief Tim Simmons 510-621-1802).
O.7 Public Works
O.7.a Reimbursement Agreement with Union Pacific Railroad for the Barrett Avenue Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements Project
ADOPT a resolution to APPROVE a Reimbursement Agreement for Preliminary Engineering Services with Union Pacific Railroad Company (UPRR) for minor amendments to the Barrett Avenue Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements Project for a total cost not to exceed $25,000 and AUTHORIZE the public works director to execute the agreement - Public Works Department (Hillal Hamdan 510-620-1612/Robert Armijo 510-620-5477).
Adopted Resolution No. 11-26.
O.7.b Bicycle Circulation Modifications near West Cutting Boulevard and South Garrard Boulevard
ADOPT a resolution to APPROPRIATE $125,000 from the General Capital Fund (Fund 2001) for circulation modifications at West Cutting Boulevard and South Garrard Boulevard in Point Richmond to improve operational concerns affecting cyclists, pedestrians, and motor vehicles – Public Works Department (Hillal Hamdan 621-1612/Robert Armijo 620- 5477).
Adopted Resolution No. 12-26.
O.7.c Purchase with Jesse Mack Company and Sterling May Equipment Company for Three (3) Fuel-Reduction Mowing Units
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ADOPT a resolution to APPROVE a purchase with Jesse Mack Company and Sterling May Equipment Company for the acquisition of one (1) Green Climber LV600 remote mower and two (2) Raymo Torpedo electric slope mowers (including accessories and one spare battery) in an amount not to exceed $269,747.62 – Public Works Department (Darin Fitzpatrick 510-231-3044/Daniel Chavarria 510-620-5478).
Adopted Resolution No. 13-26,
P. STUDY AND ACTION SESSION
P.1 Modification of City Council Liaison Appointment Cycle for Boards and Commissions
DIRECT the city clerk to work with the Mayor’s Office to implement a two-year council liaison appointment cycle for boards and commissions, aligned with the council election cycle, while maintaining the Mayor’s authority to appoint or remove liaisons at their discretion, and DIRECT that the current liaisons remain in effect through December 31, 2026, with new appointments to be made in the first quarter of 2027 following installation of new City Council – Mayor’s Office (Mayor Eduardo Martinez 510-620-6503). This item was continued from the January 20, 2026, meeting.
Motion by Councilmember Sue Wilson
Seconded by Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Ayes (6): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Councilmember Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Absent (1): Vice Mayor Doria Robinson
Passed
P.2 Contract Amendment for the Fiscal Year 2024–25 Grade 5 Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation Project
ADOPT a resolution and APPROVE the issuance of Task Authorizations to Veolia Water, on behalf of the City, to manage subcontracts with APB General Engineering, VW Housen, and Questa Engineers for additional sanitary sewer line replacement and rehabilitation work, with a contract amendment amount of $4,030,385, thereby increasing the total payment limit to $6,554,348, including applicable markups – Public Works Department (Bradley Harms 307-8094/Robert Armijo 620-5477). This item was continued from the January 20, 2026, meeting.
Adopted Resolution No. 14-26.
Motion by Councilmember Sue Wilson
Seconded by Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Ayes (6): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Councilmember Cesar Zepeda, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Absent (1): Vice Mayor Doria Robinson
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Passed
P.3 Consultant Engagement for Community Input on Polluters Pay Settlement Funds
DIRECT the city manager to engage a consultant to collaborate with City staff, City Council, and community stakeholders to conduct community engagement and gather input on a framework for the expenditure of new General Fund revenues generated by the Polluters Pay Settlement, with the consultant reporting back to the City Council by May 26, 2026 - Councilmember Claudia Jimenez (510-620-6565), Mayor Eduardo Martinez (510-620-6503), and Vice Mayor Doria Robinson (510-620-6568). This item was continued from the January 20, 2026, meeting.
This item and Item P .4 - Community meetings to gather community input on how to spend the community money; Chevron Settlement Funds were combined.
Councilmembers Jimenez, Zepeda, and Vice Mayor Robinson, gave an overview.
The following individuals gave comments in person: Cordell Hindler, Zenaida Gomez, Alma Gutierrez, Danyell Menitee, Melvin Willis, Ivette Blandon, Emma Ishi, Hasan A., Marilyn M., Abdullah A., Michelle Chan, Ryan Kazen, Antwon Cloird, and Jamin Pursell.
The following individuals gave comments online: Francisco Ortiz, Sean Staulbaum, Briana Sidney, Kevin Tisdell, Marisol Cantu, Erika Siao, and Arto Rinteela.
Discussion ensued.
Staff would need to be re-prioritized to make this the organizational priority, which would impact timeline for other matters and return to the city council with an update on how this would affect things currently in the queue. Currently there was not a data analytics staff person who could conduct a quantitative or qualitative study.
(9:55 p.m. - a motion by Councilmember Wilson, seconded by Councilmember Brown, to extend the meeting to complete Items P .3 and P .4 and vote on Items P .1 and P .2., passed by the unanimous vote of the City Council).
A May 26, 2026, timeline would be shared with consultants to ascertain if that timeframe could be met and staff would rerun to the March 24, 2026, City Council meeting with an update and a timeline regarding the community input process.
A motion by Councilmember Jimenez, seconded by Vice Mayor Robinson, to approve the item,
Vice Mayor Robinson offered a friendly amendment that the strategy for holding and releasing the funds was obtained from the community. and where the funds should be spent. Councilmember Jimenez accepted the friendly amendment.
Vice Mayor Robinson offered an additional friendly amendment that there was an appropriate timeline to conduct a good Request for Proposals (RFP) process and that these short-term funds were placed into an investment fund and not added to the general fund total budget until the process is completed.
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Councilmember Wilson offered a friendly amendment that consultants would present a plan prior to implementation and that all individuals and community groups should be treated equally in the input process regardless of if they were part of the Maks Polluters Pay Coalition.
Further discussion ensued.
Councilmember Bana made a substitute motion to hire a consultant to provide a high-level vision different strategy options for spending the money and after that is done, then after that is complete, proceed with the community input gathering.
The motion died for lack of a second.
Councilmember Brown offered a friendly amendment to ensure that the maximum amount for the contractor was lowered. Councilmember Jimenez did not accept the friendly amendment.
The original motion with amendments passed by the following vote:
Motion by Councilmember Claudia Jimenez
Seconded by Vice Mayor Doria Robinson
Ayes (5): Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Councilmember Cesar Zepeda, Vice Mayor Doria Robinson, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Noes (1): Councilmember Jamelia Brown
Abstentions (1): Councilmember Soheila Bana
Passed
P.4 Community Meetings to Gather Community Input on How to Spend the Community Money; Chevron Settlement Funds
DIRECT the city manager, or their designee, to schedule and lead a minimum of six community meetings each year, all around the City in each district, to gather input from the community on how to spend The Community Money: Chevron settlement funds, prior to the annual budget meeting – Councilmember Cesar Zepeda (510-620-6593). This item was continued from the January 20, 2026, meeting.
This item was combined and heard with Item P-3 - Consultant engagement for community input on Polluters Pay Settlement Funds
P.5 Update on Advanced Life Support (ALS) First Responder Services, Fire Station Upgrades and Replacements, Associated Five-Year Financial Forecast, and Develop Revenue Enhancement Recommendations RECEIVE an update on the Advanced Life Support (ALS) First Responder Services, Fire Station Upgrades and Replacements, and associated Five-Year Financial Forecast; and DIRECT the city manager to develop revenue enhancement and financing recommendations for City Council consideration – Fire Department/Finance Department/City Manager’s Office (Chief Aaron Osorio 510-307-8021/Emily Combs 510-890-5534/Shasa Curl 510-620-6512).
Fire Chief Aaron Osorio, Finance Director Emily Combs, Deputy Director of Finance Mubeen Quader, and Deputy Fire Chief Rico Rincon presented the PowerPoint.
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Link to presentation: ALS Presentation
Antwon Cloird gave comments in person. Kevin Tisdell gave comments online.
Discussion ensued.
The city council requested that staff identify funds equal to the settlement funds that were in the amount it would cost to fund Advanced Life Support services, develop revenue enhancement ideas, and come back within 60 days with options that do not include the use of the settlement funds.
A motion was made as follows to receive the update as presented and identify how general funds were considered to ensure that the general funds and settlement funds can be looked at in totality of the needs of the city.
Motion by Mayor Eduardo Martinez
Seconded by Councilmember Jamelia Brown
Ayes (7): Councilmember Soheila Bana, Councilmember Jamelia Brown, Councilmember Claudia Jimenez, Councilmember Sue Wilson, Councilmember Cesar Zepeda, Vice Mayor Doria Robinson, and Mayor Eduardo Martinez Passed
Q. REPORTS OF OFFICERS: REFERRALS TO STAFF, AND GENERAL REPORTS (INCLUDING AB 1234 REPORTS)(limited to two minutes per Councilmember) None.
R. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, the meeting adjourned at 10:39 p.m., in memory of all those recently killed in Iran, to meet again on February 3, 2026, at 6:00 p.m.
Clerk of the City of Richmond Mayor
From: Joan Peters
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: Fw: public comments – Open Session prior to Closed Session Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 1:08:01 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Due to a mistake in my typing the City Clerk's address, this email was not delivered before 1:00pm.
Would you please accept it anyway for tonight's meeting? Thank you,
Joan Peters
----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Joan Peters <[email protected]>
To: [email protected] <[email protected]> Sent: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at 12:57:48 PM PST
Subject: public comments – Open Session prior to Closed Session Regarding the recent attempts at City Council meetings to thwart the democratic process, I think it is important to point out the ways in which Councilmembers Cesar Zepeda, Jamelia Brown, and Soheila Bana have tried to do so. First there was the attempt to get around the Brown Act by submitting an emergency agenda item that was NOT an emergency, namely a call for Mayor Martinez to resign. Then there was the attempt to collapse 2 agenda items into one without allowing public comment nor debate by Councilmembers of the second of the 2 agenda items, namely ca cll for Mayor Martinez to resign. Fortunately, in both cases the City Council voted against both of these UNDEMOCRATIC ACTIONS. This is precisely what the U.S. President is trying to do, force his plans through the U.S. mechanisms without using the Constitutional democratic process.
Furthermore I would like to highlight the way in which these Councilmembers and some of the Jewish community in Richmond have mimicked President Trump by using the term “antisemitism” to attack our city government. The President and his administration have been systematically attacking major universities, including our own University of California, Berkeley, with claims of “antisemitism” as an excuse to cut these universities’ federal funding. This makes one wonder what Richmond city services these groups are aiming to cut. (By the way, no distinction between “antisemitism” and anti-Zionism has been made in any of these attacks.) As a citizen of Richmond for the past 9 years, I am tremendously disappointed in the conduct of these 3 City Councilmembers and of those members of our Jewish community who are weaponizing the term “antisemitism” to destabilize our city government and possibly try to defund some of its services.
I am SHOCKED that my own city has been mimicking the illegal actions of the U.S.
Presidential administration!
Sincerely,
Joan Peters
1816 Carlson Blvd.,
Richmond
From: claudia citroen
To: City Clerk Dept User; Robert Armijo; Hillal Hamdan; Shannon Moore; Shasa Curl; Cesar Zepeda; Soheila Bana; Eduardo Martinez; Jamelia Brown
Subject: Remove consent calendar item O.7.a and O.7.b for legal review Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026 11:26:49 AM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Mr Hamadan and Mr Arminijo,
I am hereby requesting consent calendar item 0.7.a and 0.7.b removed until the outdate “general bike plan” has been legally reviewed by the city attorney if it’s appropriate for a dramatically changed traffic and urban housing infrastructure. Please respond with your input as required by council meeting code.
Madame city clerk,
I am unable to place my comment in these two consent calendar items, and am uncertain whether to post under open forum public comment. Please advise and place in the correct
01.27.26 council meeting section.
City Council Consent Calendar remove 0.7a/ 0.7.b Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure Projects
City Council Findings Regarding Bicycle and Pedestrian Infrastructure Projects 1 . The City Council’s January 26, 2026 agenda includes bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure items under Public Works, including a reimbursement agreement with Union Pacific for preliminary engineering services related to the Barrett Avenue Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements and a $125,000 allocation for bicycle circulation improvements near West Cutting Boulevard and South Garrard Boulevard. These actions are preparatory and do not constitute project certification or completion of environmental review under CEQA (PRC §§ 21002, 21061, 21100, 21151; CEQA Guidelines §§ 15004, 15061, 15378).
2. Richmond’s Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan and Travel Safe Richmond, adopted in 2023, provide policy guidance but were not accompanied by Environmental Impact Reports and do not satisfy CEQA requirements for project-level approvals or implementation (PRC §§ 21002, 21100; CEQA Guidelines §§ 15165, 15168).
3. Projects such as the Barrett Avenue Bicycle and Pedestrian Improvements and the Bayview Avenue Bikeways are advancing toward engineering and construction phases without certified Environmental Impact Reports, Initial Studies, Mitigated Negative Declarations, or adopted CEQA findings evaluating project-level or cumulative environmental impacts, in violation of PRC § 21151 and CEQA Guidelines §§ 15004, 15061. Case law prohibits piecemeal approval and premature commitment (Laurel Heights Improvement Assn., 1988;
Friends of the Eel River, 2003;
Communities for a
Better Environment v. Richmond, 2010).
4. CEQA prohibits segmentation of projects into discrete approvals, including engineering authorizations, right-of-way actions, or incremental funding allocations, to avoid comprehensive review. Preliminary approvals that commit the City to a defined course of action constitute project approval (CEQA Guidelines §§ 15165, 15168, 15378).
5. The projects involve substantive changes to traffic circulation, roadway configuration, parking, and emergency access, particularly in residential neighborhoods. (Exampke are 23rd Str and Rumhill under utilized bike lane). These projects increase congestion, alter local traffic patterns, displace on-street parking, and affect pedestrian and cyclist safety.
Cumulative impacts on air quality, noise, public safety, emergency vehicle access, and environmental justice communities are present and must be analyzed in accordance with CEQA (PRC §§ 21083, 21083.2; CEQA Guidelines §§ 15064, 15130).
6. Where federal funding, approvals, or coordination with federal agencies is involved, the projects trigger additional requirements under NEPA, Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and Clean Air Act transportation conformity provisions. Compliance with federal law is required independent of CEQA.
7. The Richmond–San Rafael Bridge bicycle and pedestrian path currently operates as a restricted pilot project due to operational and access limitations. Policy documents such as the Bicycle and Pedestrian Action Plan, Local Roadway Safety Plan, and Richmond Rising initiative guide planning and funding priorities but do not substitute for required environmental review, including for bike share and multi-use trail expansions in disadvantaged communities.
8. Preparation and certification of a programmatic Environmental Impact Report covering major bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects as a unified program is necessary.
Construction-level or operational approvals are not appropriate until environmental review is complete and publicly available. All agenda items that materially affect environmental conditions, traffic circulation, public safety, or public health require CEQA and, where applicable, NEPA determinations with supporting documentation.
9. Implementation of bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects in residential areas affects neighborhood livability, traffic flow, parking availability, and emergency access.
These impacts are significant and require mitigation to protect residents’ quality of life and public safety, consistent with CEQA and the City’s fiduciary responsibilities.
1. Sincerely, Claudia Citroen
From: Bruce Brubaker
To: City Clerk Dept User
Cc: [email protected]; TRAC
Subject: Item O.7b - Support from TRAC
Date: Tuesday, January 27, 2026 1:00:03 PM
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Re: Item O.7b Bicycle Circulation Modifications near West Cutting Boulevard and South Garrard Boulevard Dear City Council:
TRAC supports the Consent Calendar approval of modifications to bicycle facilities on West Cutting and South Garrard Boulevard. The Ferry to Bridge to Greenway project was intended to be a pilot project with flexibility to adjust as needed, and the modifications proposed are consistent with the goal of providing safe and convenient bicycle connections to Point Richmond.
Thank you,
Bruce Brubaker
Vice-Chair
TRAC
From: Gerry La Londe-Berg
To: City Clerk Dept User
Subject: 01/27/26 Item P 3 Comment - Gerry La Londe-Berg Date: Sunday, January 25, 2026 10:51:11 PM
Attachments: 260127 LaLonde-Berg comments PollutersPayPlan.docx This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
You don't often get email from [email protected]. Learn why this is important This email originated from outside of the City's email system. Do not open links or attachments from untrusted sources.
Please review the attached.
Thank you.
Gerry La Londe-Berg, MSW
Yuba Street, Richmond
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 1
To: Richmond City Council
From: Gerry La Londe-Berg
Re: Item P3 - Richmond Polluters Pay spending plan
I read the RfP for a consultant on this project. I hope and expect that for $150,000 a specific plan for the ten years can be developed. 3-5 input sessions does not seem to be sufficient to gain the information; I suggest that a scheme as articulated by Gemini, Chat, and Claude as I produced below can identify key concepts or projects in each of the six main areas. Those six concept DRAFT lists could then be the basis for the input process and the plan design. My experience is that going into a meeting without a focus to react to is less efficient. Furthermore, given the qualitative nature of this endeavor, I don’t think the results will be inappropriately skewed by developing initial thoughts.
My own interest is in elders and people who may have limitations due to disabilities. These same individuals may be the individuals hurt by long term exposure to the fossil fuel industry. I would draw your attention to those aspects in the AI generated information I don’t know if you have time to read the full thirty (30) pages, but I hope these can, in part, be the basis for the consultants’ work.
I have highlighted some of my notable positive statements.
R
espectfully submitted
<><><><><><><>
Prompt Example
Title: Richmond Polluters Pay spending plan
Role: Act as a policy analyst
Context: Based on City of Richmond successfully concluded negotiations with Chevron so that $50 million a year will be available until 2035. fully integrated with explicit attention to people age 65+, people with disabilities, and residents with limited or intermittent work capacity.
Task: D raft spending plan including these main sections:
1.Large-Scale Economic Development: Investment in large-scale projects that would generate tax revenue and have the potential to create high quality union jobs with good benefits while strengthening and diversifying Richmond’s economy.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 2
2. Inclusive Economic Development: Projects that support small to mid-sized businesses and build the skills of Richmond’s local workforce. This includes but is not limited to small business grants and job training.
3.Community Visioned Projects: Projects and programs directly proposed and developed by Richmond residents that provide direct benefits to Richmond residents and support a Just Transition. A community board would be established to develop criteria, solicit and prioritize projects, and ensure accountability and transparency in the execution of projects.
4. Investments in Essential Services & Public Works: Critical Infrastructure projects that demonstrably improve the health and quality of life of Richmond residents, along with emergency and climate resilience. This includes but is not limited to, a ‘Complete Streets' approach to pedestrian safety, bike lanes, and public transportation infrastructure, emergency fire, EMS and disaster response, flood mitigation, improvements to public parks, and make available renewable energy and efficiency upgrades.
5. City Staffing & Consultants: Increase staffing in necessary departments to execute the goals of the fund in order to strengthen, diversify and transition the City economy from fossil fuels and deliver high impact projects that improve residents' lives. As needed, seek the expertise of consultants to offer temporary and specific expertise on economic diversification, workforce development, and climate resilience.
Output Requirements: policy brief, formal tone, suitable for presentation to the City Council Content Focus: Include goals, outcome measures, data needs, and next steps. Avoid jargon.
Follow-Up: to be determined
Chat >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
Richmond Polluters Pay Fund
I
nclusive Spending Plan with Aging & Ability Lens (2026–2035)** Purpose and Context
The City of Richmond has successfully concluded negotiations with Chevron resulting in a dedicated revenue stream of $50 million annually through 2035. These funds provide a once- in-a-generation opportunity to address the cumulative public health, economic, and environmental harms of industrial pollution while building a more resilient and inclusive local economy.
A significant portion of Richmond residents are over the age of 65, living with disabilities, or h
ave limited working ability due to health, caregiving responsibilities, or past industrial exposure. This spending plan explicitly recognizes that a just transition must benefit workers, Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 3
non-workers, caregivers, retirees, and residents living on fixed incomes, and must improve quality of life regardless of labor market participation.
Gu
iding Principles
• Universal Benefit, Targeted Investment: Funds should benefit all residents, with targeted investments for those most impacted by pollution, aging, and economic exclusion.
• Economic Security Beyond Employment: Economic well-being includes housing stability, mobility, health, safety, and affordability—not only jobs. • Aging-in-Community: Enable older adults and people with disabilities to remain safely housed and engaged in their neighborhoods.
• Intergenerational Equity: Investments should support both current residents and future generations.
• Accountability and Transparency: Clear governance, public reporting, and measurable outcomes.
1. Large-Scale Economic Development
Purpose
Invest in large-scale projects that strengthen Richmond’s long-term fiscal base while delivering direct community benefits to residents across working and non-working ages.
Expanded Community Benefit Framework
All large-scale projects funded through Polluters Pay should include Community Benefit Agreements (CBAs) that address:
• Local and union hiring and
• Revenue streams or service commitments that benefit older adults and people with disabilities, such as:
o Dedicated funding for senior services or mobility programs o On-site health, cooling, or resilience infrastructure o Community access to affordable energy or reduced utility costs
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 4
Goals
• Increase non–fossil fuel tax revenue to stabilize City services relied upon by older adults • Reduce household cost burdens (energy, transportation, health-related costs) • Support long-term fiscal capacity for age-friendly services Outcome Measures
• Net new City revenue dedicated to essential services
• Number of projects with enforceable CBAs including aging/disability benefits • Reduction in household energy or transportation costs in surrounding neighborhoods Data Needs
• Tax revenue allocation tracking
• Household cost-of-living indicators
• Age and disability impact assessments for major projects Next Steps
1. Require age- and ability-impact statements for large projects
2. I ntegrate aging services into CBAs
3. Coordinate with the Commission on Aging and Disability advisory bodies
2. Inclusive Economic Development
Purpose
Support economic participation in multiple forms, recognizing that many residents contribute through part-time work, caregiving, volunteering, mentoring, or community enterprise rather than full-time employment.
Expanded Eligible Investments
• Small business grants for home-based, cooperative, and low-capital enterprises • Flexible job training for:
o Older workers re-entering or transitioning careers
o People with disabilities
o Residents seeking part-time or modified work
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 5
• Paid mentorship roles for retirees with skilled experience • Support for caregiver employment pathways
Goals
• Increase economic security for residents on fixed or limited incomes • Reduce isolation by supporting purposeful, flexible engagement • Retain institutional and craft knowledge within the community Outcome Measures
• Participation of residents age 55+ in training or enterprise programs • Number of part-time, flexible, or adapted employment placements • Income supplementation outcomes (not just full-time wages) Data Needs
• Age- and ability-disaggregated participation data
• Income stability and benefit retention metrics
• Employer accommodation and accessibility tracking
Next Steps
1. Design programs that do not penalize Social Security or disability benefits
2. P artner with senior centers, disability organizations, and labor
3. Publish participation outcomes by age and ability
3. Community-Visioned Projects
Purpose Empower residents, including older adults and people with disabilities, to define and lead projects that improve daily life, safety, and community connection.
Governance Enhancements
The Community Oversight Board should:
• Include guaranteed representation of residents age 60+ and people with disabilities • Use accessible meeting formats, materials, and outreach • Fund projects that may be small in scale but high in quality-of-life impact Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 6
Priority Project Types
• Senior mobility, shuttle, and walkability projects
• Cooling centers and heat resilience hubs
• Community health, social connection, and caregiver support programs • Intergenerational spaces and programming
Outcome Measures
• Number of projects serving older adults or people with limited mobility • Geographic equity of funded projects
• Resident-reported improvements in safety, access, and connection Next Steps
1. Provide proposal-writing assistance to older and disabled residents
2. Pilot micro-grants for neighborhood-based initiatives
3. Publish transparent project selection rationales
4. Investments in Essential Services & Public Works
Purpose Improve health, safety, and independence for residents most vulnerable to pollution, climate change, and infrastructure failure.
Age- and Ability-Responsive Infrastructure
• Complete Streets designed for slower walking speeds, mobility devices, and visibility • Expanded paratransit and first/last-mile solutions
• Flood and heat mitigation prioritized near senior housing • Park improvements with shade, seating, restrooms, and accessibility • Renewable energy and efficiency upgrades that lower fixed household costs Goals
• Reduce preventable injuries and hospitalizations among older adults • Improve emergency preparedness for residents with functional needs • Enable aging safely at home
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 7
Outcome Measures
• Falls and injury reduction near improved infrastructure • Emergency response outcomes for older adults
• Utility cost reductions for fixed-income households
Data Needs
• Age-specific injury and health data
• Infrastructure accessibility audits
• Climate vulnerability mapping
Next Steps
1. Apply an Age-Friendly and Disability Access lens to all capital projects
2. Coordinate with emergency preparedness registries and CERT
3. Fund ongoing maintenance—not just capital buildout
5. City Staffing & Consultants
Purpose Build City capacity to manage a complex, inclusive transition that accounts for aging, disability, and long-term community needs.
Expanded Staffing Priorities
• Staff expertise in:
o Aging services and universal design
o Accessibility compliance
o Community engagement with older adults
• Short-term consultants to integrate age- and ability-impact evaluation tools Outcome Measures
• Improved project delivery for age-inclusive initiatives • Reduced accessibility-related project revisions or delays • Stronger coordination across departments
Next Steps
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 8
1. Add aging and disability expertise to fund administration teams
2. Formalize coordination with the Commission on Aging
3. Review staffing adequacy annually
Accountability and Reporting
• Annual public report with age- and ability-disaggregated outcomes • Public dashboards tracking quality-of-life indicators, not just jobs • Independent audits with equity and accessibility review
Conclusion - A just transition in Richmond must recognize that economic well-being is not synonymous with employment alone. By explicitly incorporating the needs and contributions of older adults, people with disabilities, and residents with limited working ability, the Polluters Pay Fund can deliver lasting improvements in health, stability, dignity, and community connection—while strengthening Richmond’s long-term economic resilience.
Claude >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
RICHMOND POLLUTERS PAY SPENDING PLAN
P
olicy Brief for City Council Consideration
Prepared for: Richmond City Council
Subject: Strategic Allocation Framework for Chevron Settlement Funds Funding: $50 million annually through 2035 (Total: $550 million) Date: January 25, 2026
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The City of Richmond has secured $50 million in annual funding from Chevron through 2035, representing a historic opportunity to transform our local economy, strengthen community resilience, and improve quality of life for all residents. This spending plan proposes a balanced allocation strategy across five priority areas, with particular attention to serving older adults, people with disabilities, and residents with limited work capacity.
The plan emphasizes measurable outcomes, community input, and accountability while supporting Richmond's transition toward a more diversified, sustainable economy that creates pathways to prosperity for all residents.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 9
PROPOSED ALLOCATION FRAMEWORK
Annual Budget Distribution
Priority Area Annual Allocation Percentage
Large-Scale Economic Development $15 million 30%
Inclusive Economic Development $12 million 24%
Community Visioned Projects $10 million 20%
Essential Services & Public Works $10 million 20%
City Staffing & Consultants $3 million 6%
Total $50 million 100%
1. LARGE-SCALE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ($15M annually)
Purpose Generate sustainable tax revenue and create high-quality union employment opportunities while reducing Richmond's economic dependence on fossil fuel industries.
Strategic Goals
• Attract and support industries aligned with clean energy, advanced manufacturing, and technology sectors
• Create a minimum of 200 permanent union jobs with family-sustaining wages and comprehensive benefits within the first five years
• Generate $5 million in new annual tax revenue by year ten • Prioritize projects that employ Richmond residents and provide career advancement opportunities
Eligible Investments
• Infrastructure improvements to support industrial development in targeted sectors • Public-private partnerships for clean energy manufacturing facilities • Port of Richmond modernization for green cargo handling and logistics • Business attraction incentives tied to local hiring and union labor agreements Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 10
• Site preparation and environmental remediation for commercial development Accessibility Integration
• Require developers to meet or exceed accessibility standards in all facilities • Mandate that 10% of created positions be reserved for individuals with disabilities or work limitations
• Provide workplace accommodations and flexible scheduling options as standard practice • Partner with disability employment specialists to ensure meaningful job placements Outcome Measures
• Number and quality of jobs created (wage levels, benefits, union representation) • Tax revenue generated from new development
• Percentage of jobs filled by Richmond residents
• Percentage of workers from priority populations (older workers, people with disabilities) • Industry diversity index tracking reduction in fossil fuel sector dependence Data Collection Requirements
• Quarterly employment reports from funded projects
• Annual economic impact assessments
• Worker demographic data (protecting individual privacy) • Tax revenue attribution analysis
2. INCLUSIVE ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ($12M annually)
Purpose Build economic opportunity from the ground up by strengthening small businesses and equipping Richmond residents with skills for emerging industries.
Strategic Goals
• Support 100 small to mid-sized businesses annually through direct grants and technical assistance
• Train 500 Richmond residents per year in high-demand career fields • Increase business ownership among women, people of color, and residents with disabilities by 25% within five years
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 11
• Create accessible pathways to employment for residents age 65 and older and those with intermittent work capacity
Program Components
Small Business Support ($6M annually)
• Grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for business start-up, expansion, or stabilization
• Zero-interest loans for equipment purchases and facility improvements • Technical assistance for business planning, financial management, and marketing • Accessible storefront improvement grants prioritizing universal design • Cooperative business development support
Workforce Development ($6M annually)
• Industry-aligned training programs in clean energy, healthcare, technology, and skilled trades
• Partnerships with community colleges and union apprenticeship programs • Supportive services including transportation, childcare, and assistive technology • Bridge programs for older workers transitioning from fossil fuel industries • Flexible, part-time training options for those with caregiving responsibilities or health limitations
• Paid internships and on-the-job training with local employers Accessibility Integration
• Prioritize funding for businesses owned by or employing people with disabilities • Offer micro-enterprise development specifically designed for home-based businesses • Provide adaptive equipment and assistive technology through training programs • Create "returnship" programs for older workers re-entering the workforce • Establish flexible, project-based employment models for those unable to maintain traditional full-time schedules
Outcome Measures
• Number of businesses receiving support and their survival rates after three years • Jobs created or retained through business grants
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 12
• Number of residents completing training programs
• Employment placement rates and wage progression
• Business ownership demographics
• Participation rates among older adults and people with disabilities Data Collection Requirements
• Business assistance tracking system
• Training program enrollment and completion data
• Post-training employment verification
• Longitudinal income tracking for program participants • Demographic data on business owners and trainees
3. COMMUNITY VISIONED PROJECTS ($10M annually)
Purpose Empower Richmond residents to identify, design, and implement projects that directly address community-identified needs and priorities.
Governance Structure
Richmond Community Investment Board
• 15-member board with majority representation from Richmond residents • Seats designated for: older adults, people with disabilities, youth, small business owners, labor representatives, environmental justice advocates, and at-large community members • Two-year staggered terms with term limits
• Monthly public meetings with accessible formats (translation, captioning, assistive listening)
Board Responsibilities
• Develop and publish transparent project selection criteria • Conduct community outreach and engagement processes
• Review and prioritize project proposals
• Monitor project implementation and outcomes
• Publish annual reports on funded projects and their impacts Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 13
Eligible Projects
• Community centers and gathering spaces with full accessibility features • Arts, culture, and heritage preservation initiatives
• Community gardens and urban agriculture programs
• Youth development and mentoring programs
• Senior services and aging-in-place support
• Disability resource centers and adaptive recreation programs • Neighborhood beautification and safety improvements
• Community-led climate adaptation projects
Accessibility Integration
• Reserve 30% of annual funding for projects directly benefiting older adults and people with disabilities
• Require all funded projects to demonstrate universal design principles • Provide technical assistance to help community groups develop accessible proposals • Offer proposal development workshops in accessible formats and locations Outcome Measures
• Number of residents engaged in project development process • Number and diversity of projects funded
• Geographic distribution across Richmond neighborhoods • Direct beneficiaries reached by funded projects
• Community satisfaction with projects and process
• Sustained community participation over time
Data Collection Requirements
• Community engagement tracking (meetings attended, proposals submitted) • Project impact reports from funded organizations
• Beneficiary demographic data
• Community survey on program accessibility and satisfaction Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 14
4. ESSENTIAL SERVICES & PUBLIC WORKS ($10M annually)
Purpose Address critical infrastructure needs that enhance public safety, health, and quality of life while building resilience to climate and emergency challenges.
Investment Priorities
Transportation & Mobility ($4M annually)
• Complete Streets implementation: sidewalk repairs, curb cuts, accessible pedestrian signals
• Protected bike lane network expansion
• Bus shelter improvements with seating, weather protection, and real-time arrival information
• Paratransit service expansion for older adults and people with disabilities • Traffic calming measures in residential areas
Climate Resilience & Environment ($3M annually)
• Storm drainage improvements and flood mitigation infrastructure • Sea level rise adaptation planning and early implementation projects • Urban tree canopy expansion focusing on heat island reduction • Green infrastructure for stormwater management
• Renewable energy installations on public buildings
Emergency Services ($2M annually)
• Fire department equipment and facility upgrades
• Emergency Medical Services capacity expansion
• Disaster preparedness and community resilience programs (CERT) • Emergency communication systems with accessible alert options • Cooling and heating centers for climate emergencies
Parks & Recreation ($1M annually)
• Playground accessibility upgrades
• Park pathway improvements for wheelchair and walker access Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 15
• Adaptive recreation equipment and programs
• Public restroom accessibility improvements
• Park lighting and safety enhancements
Accessibility Integration
• Apply universal design standards to all infrastructure projects • Prioritize sidewalk and street crossing improvements near senior housing, healthcare facilities, and disability service locations
• Ensure emergency alert systems reach people with visual, hearing, and cognitive disabilities
• Install benches and rest areas at regular intervals along pedestrian routes • Design parks and public spaces for multi-generational use Outcome Measures
• Miles of accessible sidewalks and bike lanes created
• Reduction in pedestrian and cyclist injuries
• Public transit ridership, especially among older adults and people with disabilities • Flood events mitigated and property damage prevented
• Emergency response times
• Community use of improved parks and facilities
• Greenhouse gas emissions reduction from city operations Data Collection Requirements
• Infrastructure condition assessments before and after improvements • Pedestrian and bicycle count data
• Transit ridership demographics
• Climate resilience modeling and flood monitoring
• Emergency incident reports and response metrics
• Park usage studies
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 16
5. CITY STAFFING & CONSULTANTS ($3M annually)
Purpose Build city capacity to effectively manage this unprecedented funding opportunity and ensure professional execution of programs across all priority areas.
Staffing Needs
New Positions ???
Consultant Services
• Economic diversification strategy development
• Industry cluster analysis and attraction planning
• Workforce needs assessment and training program design • Climate vulnerability assessment and adaptation planning • Infrastructure engineering and design services
• Community engagement facilitation
• Program evaluation and impact assessment
• Accessibility audits and universal design consultation Capacity Building Goals
• Establish dedicated fund management office by end of year one • Develop comprehensive project tracking and reporting systems • Create interdepartmental coordination protocols
• Build staff expertise in accessible program design
• Establish relationships with regional economic development partners Outcome Measures
• Time from project approval to implementation
• Percentage of funds allocated and spent on schedule
• Resident satisfaction with city communication and engagement • Staff capacity assessment scores
• Quality of program evaluation and reporting
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 17
Data Collection Requirements
• Project pipeline tracking
• Fund expenditure monitoring
• Staff workload and capacity assessments
• Community feedback on city responsiveness
CROSS-CUTTING PRINCIPLES
Equity and Inclusion Every dollar spent must advance equity for Richmond's most vulnerable residents. All programs will:
• Use targeted outreach to reach older adults, people with disabilities, and residents with limited English proficiency
• Remove barriers to participation through accessible formats, flexible scheduling, and supportive services
• Track demographic data to ensure equitable distribution of benefits • Adjust strategies based on equity outcome data
Economic Transition This funding represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reduce Richmond's economic vulnerability to fossil fuel industry decline. All investments should:
• Diversify the local economy into sustainable, growing sectors • Create pathways for workers to transition from legacy industries • Build wealth and ownership opportunities in Richmond's communities • Strengthen local supply chains and business-to-business relationships Climate Action Every investment should consider climate impacts and prioritize solutions that:
• Reduce greenhouse gas emissions
• Increase resilience to climate hazards
• Support renewable energy and energy efficiency
• Protect vulnerable populations from climate impacts
Transparency and Accountability Public trust requires clear communication and rigorous oversight:
• Publish detailed annual reports on all expenditures and outcomes Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 18
• Maintain public dashboard tracking fund allocation and project status • Conduct regular community meetings to share progress and gather feedback • Commission independent audits of program effectiveness
I
MPLEMENTATION ROADMAP
Year One (2026-2027)
• Establish fund governance structure and hire core staff • Launch community engagement process for Community Investment Board • Conduct needs assessments and develop detailed program guidelines • Issue first round of requests for proposals
• Begin infrastructure planning and design
• Establish data collection and reporting systems
Years Two-Three (2027-2029)
• Achieve full program implementation across all priority areas • Complete first major infrastructure projects
• Launch workforce training programs and small business support • Attract and break ground on first large-scale economic development project • Establish baseline data and refine outcome measures
• Conduct mid-term program evaluation and adjustments
Years Four-Five (2029-2031)
• Scale successful programs based on evaluation findings • Measure progress toward long-term economic transition goals • Assess tax revenue generation from economic development investments • Expand community-led projects demonstrating strong outcomes • Plan for sustained impact beyond initial funding period Years Six-Ten (2031-2035)
• Demonstrate measurable economic diversification and job creation Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 19
• Achieve significant progress on climate resilience infrastructure • Build institutional knowledge and systems for sustained community investment • Develop strategies for maintaining momentum as initial funding concludes • Document lessons learned and best practices for replication
MEASURING SUCCESS
Economic Indicators
• Jobs created and median wage levels
• Tax revenue growth
• Business formation and survival rates
• Reduction in unemployment and underemployment rates
• Industry diversity metrics
Social Indicators
• Labor force participation among older workers and people with disabilities • Income levels across demographic groups
• Access to employment benefits (health insurance, retirement) • Educational attainment and skills certification
• Community survey results on quality of life
Infrastructure Indicators
• Accessibility compliance rates for public infrastructure • Pedestrian and bicycle safety metrics
• Transit access and reliability
• Climate resilience improvements
• Public facility condition assessments
Process Indicators
• Community participation in decision-making
• Demographic reach of programs
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 20
• Timeliness of fund disbursement
• Grant recipient satisfaction
• Transparency and communication effectiveness
NEXT STEPS Immediate Actions Required
1. City Council Resolution: Adopt spending plan framework and authorize staff to begin implementation
2. Staffing Authorization: Approve new positions and begin recruitment for fund management team
3. Community Investment Board: Establish application process and selection criteria for board members
4. Stakeholder Engagement: Launch community outreach to gather input on program design details
5. Administrative Systems: Develop grant management, tracking, and reporting infrastructure
Policy Development Needs
• Detailed program guidelines for each priority area
• Community Investment Board bylaws and operating procedures • Accessibility standards for all funded projects
• Labor standards and local hiring requirements
• Environmental review processes
• Conflict of interest and ethics policies
Interagency Coordination
• Align with existing city plans (General Plan, Climate Action Plan, Economic Development Strategy)
• Coordinate with Contra Costa County workforce and social services • Partner with school districts on youth training programs • Engage regional planning agencies on infrastructure projects • Collaborate with community-based organizations serving priority populations Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 21
CONCLUSION The Chevron settlement provides Richmond with transformative resources to build a more prosperous, equitable, and sustainable future. This spending plan balances strategic economic investments with responsive community priorities, always centering the needs of residents who have been most impacted by industrial pollution and economic inequality.
Success will require sustained commitment to equity, transparency, and community partnership.
By investing wisely across economic development, workforce preparation, community priorities, essential infrastructure, and city capacity, Richmond can create lasting benefits that extend well beyond the funding period and serve as a national model for just economic transition.
The path forward demands both urgency and care—moving quickly to deploy resources while ensuring that every dollar spent advances our shared vision of a Richmond where all residents can thrive.
Gemini >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
POLICY BRIEF
To
: Mayor and City Council, City of Richmond
From: Policy Analysis Division
Date: January 25, 2026
Subject: FY2025–2035 Spending Plan for Chevron Settlement Funds ($50M/Year) Executive Summary
Following the successful negotiation of a $550 million settlement with Chevron, the City of Richmond has secured $50 million annually through 2035 to transition the local economy and remediate environmental harms. This spending plan proposes a strategic allocation of these funds to foster a "Just Transition" that is not only economically robust but radically inclusive.
Unlike traditional economic development plans, this framework embeds the needs of residents aged 65+, people with disabilities, and those with limited or intermittent work capacity into every fiscal priority. The goal is to move beyond "bolted-on" compliance toward an economy designed for universal participation.
1. Large-Scale Economic Development
Transitioning the industrial base toward a Green-Blue Economy while ensuring high-quality employment is accessible to all.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 22
Goals:
• Attract and retain clean energy, manufacturing, and logistics firms committed to local hiring.
• Ensure major infrastructure projects utilize Universal Design principles, making workplaces usable by employees of all physical abilities.
Strategic Investments:
• Green Industrial Park Retrofits: Incentives for retrofitting industrial zones for clean energy usage, contingent on "Beyond ADA" accessibility standards (e.g., sensory- friendly workspaces, wheelchair-accessible heavy equipment interfaces). • Union Partnerships: Collaborate with trade unions to develop "job carving" protocols within large contracts—identifying roles within major construction and energy projects suitable for older workers or those with physical limitations (e.g., safety monitoring, logistics planning).
• Social Enterprise Incubator: Direct investment in large-scale cooperatives (e.g., industrial laundry, food systems) that mandate integrated workforces including people with disabilities.
Outcome Measures:
• Number of new union jobs created, disaggregated by worker age and disability status. • Percentage of capital projects meeting Universal Design certification.
Data Needs: Labor market analysis of local residents with disabilities; inventory of accessible industrial sites.
2. Inclusive Economic Development
Supporting the resilience of small businesses and the diverse workforce capabilities of Richmond residents.
Goals:
• Foster entrepreneurship among residents excluded from the traditional 9-to-5 labor market.
• Build a workforce training pipeline that accommodates intermittent work capacity due to health or caregiving.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 23
Strategic Investments:
• Adaptive Entrepreneurship Grants: A dedicated grant stream for business owners with disabilities or chronic health conditions, funding adaptive equipment and assistive technology to run their businesses.
• Flexible Workforce Development: Training programs for high-demand fields (admin, coding, green consulting) designed with asynchronous learning modules for residents with intermittent capacity.
• "Care Economy" Support: Subsidies for small businesses that provide essential services to seniors and disabled residents, recognizing this as a high-growth economic sector.
Outcome Measures:
• Retention rates of minority- and disability-owned small businesses. • Number of residents with limited work capacity placed in part-time or flexible employment.
Data Needs: Survey of barriers to entry for local entrepreneurs with disabilities.
3. Community Visioned Projects
Directly empowering residents to design the future of their neighborhoods.
Goals:
• Ensure the $50 million annual spend reflects the immediate needs of frontline communities.
• Guarantee that the governance process itself is fully accessible to non-ambulatory and neurodivergent residents.
Strategic Investments:
• Richmond Community Justice Board: Establishment of a governing body with a charter mandating representation from disability advocacy groups and senior centers. • Participatory Budgeting Process: Allocation of 20% of the annual fund to projects voted on by residents. V oting mechanisms must include mobile voting units for homebound seniors, screen-reader-accessible digital platforms, and ASL-interpreted town halls.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 24
• Neighborhood Micro-Grants: Funding for block-level improvements (e.g., community gardens with raised beds for wheelchair access) proposed by informal neighborhood groups.
Outcome Measures:
• V oter participation rates in budgeting cycles, specifically tracking demographic spread. • Percentage of funded projects originating from designated "Environmental Justice Communities."
Data Needs: Demographic mapping of civic participation to identify exclusion hotspots.
4. Investments in Essential Services & Public Works
Building critical infrastructure that improves health outcomes and climate resilience for the most vulnerable.
Goals:
• Eliminate the "mobility gap" for residents who do not drive. • Harden city infrastructure against climate events (floods, heat waves) that disproportionately kill seniors and people with disabilities.
Strategic Investments:
• Universal Complete Streets: Beyond standard bike lanes, this includes widening sidewalks for paratransit loading, installing audible pedestrian signals at all intersections, and increasing crossing times for slower walkers.
• Climate Resilience Hubs: Upgrading community centers and libraries with solar storage and air filtration to serve as 24/7 cooling/charging centers during disasters, fully staffed with personal care assistants during emergencies.
• Accessible Transit Expansion: Expansion of the free city shuttle specifically connecting senior housing and medical centers with new economic zones, operating on on-demand loops.
Outcome Measures:
• Reduction in pedestrian accidents involving seniors and wheelchair users. • Reduction in heat-related ER visits among residents 65+.
Data Needs: GIS mapping of "sidewalk gaps" and heat islands overlaid with senior population density.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 25
5. City Staffing & Consultants
Building the internal capacity to execute complex, intersectional projects.
Goals:
• Ensure city departments have the technical expertise to manage the transition from fossil fuels.
• Operationalize the commitment to inclusivity within city hall itself.
Strategic Investments:
• Chief Disability Officer: A new executive role to review all spending plan projects for genuine accessibility and integration.
• Just Transition Specialists: Recruitment of staff with specific expertise in brownfield remediation and green workforce conversion.
• Consultant Roster: A pre-qualified list of consultants specializing in Universal Design, gerontology, and accessible urban planning to support Public Works and Economic Development departments.
Outcome Measures:
• Time-to-execution for fund projects.
• Satisfaction rates from community feedback regarding project accessibility.
Data Needs: Internal skills gap analysis regarding accessibility compliance and green technology.
Next Steps
1. Immediate (Month 1-3): Convene the Community Justice Board selection committee and release the RFQ for the Chief Disability Officer.
2. Short Term (Month 3-6): Launch the "Adaptive Entrepreneurship" pilot grant program to demonstrate early wins.
3. Mid Term (Month 6-12): Complete the city-wide "Universal Complete Streets" audit to prioritize year-one infrastructure builds.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 26
Gemini >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>
How does this benefit seniors?
Based on the Richmond Polluters Pay spending plan drafted above, here is a summary of the s
pecific benefits designed for seniors (age 65+):
1. Physical Safety & Health
• Climate Protection: Dedicated Climate Resilience Hubs (upgraded community centers) will provide 24/7 cooling and air filtration during heat waves and disasters, directly addressing the high risk of heat-related illness in the senior population. • Pedestrian Safety: The "Complete Streets" approach mandates longer crossing times at intersections for slower walkers and wider sidewalks to accommodate mobility aids, reducing the risk of pedestrian accidents.
2. Mobility & Independence
• Free Accessible Transit: Expansion of a free city shuttle system specifically designed to connect senior housing complexes with medical centers and new economic zones, reducing isolation for non-drivers.
• Home-Based Participation: The introduction of mobile voting units ensures that homebound seniors can still vote on budget priorities and participate in civic life without leaving their homes.
3. Economic Security
• Tailored Employment: New "job carving" protocols with unions will identify specific roles in large infrastructure projects (like safety monitoring or logistics) that are suitable for older workers, ensuring they aren't excluded from the economic boom. • Care Economy Support: Subsidies for small businesses that provide essential services to seniors will likely increase the quality and availability of local care options.
4. Civic Power
• Direct Representation: The Community Justice Board charter mandates representation from senior centers, ensuring that the $50 million annual spend is continuously guided by the actual needs of Richmond’s older residents.
Expand on the "Job Carving" concept to see what specific roles might be most suitable for older workers in the green energy sector?
Expanded Concept: Job Carving for the Green Energy Sector Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 27
"Job carving" is an employment strategy where a job is created by modifying an existing role or combining specific tasks from different jobs. The goal is to match the unique skills, experience, and physical capabilities of an individual—in this case, older workers—with the specific needs of an employer.
In the context of the green energy sector, which often implies physically demanding installation or construction work, job carving allows the industry to tap into the immense experience of older workers without requiring them to perform heavy labor.
Here are specific "carved" roles suitable for older workers in the green economy:
1. Safety & Compliance Monitoring
• The Role: Instead of a general foreman who manages both crew speed and safety, a "Safety Specialist" focuses exclusively on site safety protocols. • Why it fits: It leverages the maturity, patience, and attention to detail of older workers.
They can monitor work sites (sometimes remotely via drone or camera feeds) to ensure compliance with OSHA and environmental regulations, freeing up younger, more physically agile workers to focus on speed and installation. • Tasks: Conducting safety audits, maintaining compliance logs, verifying PPE usage, and managing site access.
2. Logistics & Supply Chain Coordination
• The Role: "Green Logistics Coordinator."
• Why it fits: Large-scale solar or wind projects require complex orchestration of parts and equipment. Older workers with backgrounds in administration, warehousing, or management excel at the organizational aspects of getting the right part to the right place on time.
• Tasks: Tracking solar panel shipments, managing tool inventories, scheduling delivery windows to avoid site congestion, and handling vendor communication.
3. Green Fleet Dispatch & Routing
• The Role: "EV Fleet Dispatcher."
• Why it fits: As city fleets transition to electric vehicles (EVs), charging logistics become critical. This role manages the charging schedules and route planning to ensure vehicles are charged when power is cheapest and ready when needed. It is a desk-based, cognitively engaging role.
• Tasks: Monitoring fleet battery levels via software, scheduling charging rotations, and planning efficient routes for maintenance crews.
Public Comment Gerry La Londe-Berg 260127 – Polluters Pay Page 28
4. Community Liaison & Education
• The Role: "Retrofit Advisor" or "Community Outreach Specialist." • Why it fits: Older residents often trust their peers more than young salespeople. Older workers can serve as ambassadors for home energy retrofit programs (e.g., heat pumps, insulation), explaining the benefits and financial incentives to other seniors in the community.
• Tasks: Hosting information sessions at senior centers, conducting "kitchen table" walkthroughs of energy bills, and helping residents navigate grant paperwork.
5. Mentorship & Technical Training
• The Role: "Master Craftsman Mentor."
• Why it fits: Many older workers possess deep knowledge of electrical systems, plumbing, or carpentry. Even if they can no longer crawl into attics, they can be paid to supervise and train apprentices on-site, troubleshooting complex problems that stump younger workers.
• Tasks: On-site troubleshooting, reviewing blueprints with junior staff, and conducting quality assurance checks on completed work.
6. Remote Systems Monitoring
• The Role: "Energy Systems Analyst."
• Why it fits: Modern green buildings and solar arrays are "smart" systems that generate massive amounts of data. This role involves monitoring dashboards to detect efficiency drops or maintenance alerts from a home or office computer. • Tasks: Monitoring real-time data from solar inverters, dispatching repair crews when efficiency drops, and generating performance reports for building owners.
Summary of Benefits
• For the Worker: Continued income, social connection, and a sense of purpose without physical strain.
• For the Employer: Access to reliable, experienced labor; improved safety records; and better community relations.
• For the Economy: Retention of institutional knowledge that would otherwise be lost to retirement.