Proposed Richmond Refinery Upgrades Face Key City Council Vote
RICHMOND (CBS?AP) - Chevron's five-year quest for approval of a $1 billion overhaul of its aging refinery is facing a decisive vote by Richmond city officials.
Richmond's city council is scheduled to take up the project at its meeting on Tuesday night. Councilmembers could impose additional conditions that are opposed by Chevron or approve the project without them.
Chevron wants to upgrade the 1960s-era refinery, allowing it to process higher-sulfur crude oil. Chevron officials earlier this month agreed to a plan backed by state Attorney General Kamala Harris that would cap the plant's greenhouse gas emissions and reduce levels of sulfur processing.
Opponents want more limits on pollution and additional safety upgrades.
A 2012 fire at the plant led 15,000 residents to seek treatment for breathing problems.
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