Martinez Refining Company hit with $10 million fine

"Authorities announced Thursday that they had secured a $10 million penalty against a Contra Costa County refinery owner after repeated violations over a four-year period. The Martinez Refining Company will also pay $600,000 in mitigation for environmental projects and has committed to making compliance improvements at its refinery on Pacheco Boulevard in Martinez. The facility has experienced a number of issues in recent years, including a release of spent catalyst in 2022 that covered parts of the city in an ash-like substance, as well as illegal flaring, fires, leaking tanks, and the release of coke dust that spread past its property line."

"The residents of Martinez deserve to feel safe in their communities, Contra Costa District Attorney Diana Becton said in a statement. This civil action holds the Martinez Refining Company accountable for numerous violations, enforces compliance with the law, and reinforces our office's dedication to protect public health and safety through all available legal means, including civil action."

A $10 million penalty was secured against Martinez Refining Company following repeated violations spanning four years. The company will pay $600,000 for environmental mitigation and has pledged compliance improvements at its Pacheco Boulevard refinery in Martinez. The facility experienced multiple incidents, including a 2022 release of spent catalyst that covered parts of the city in an ash-like substance. Other violations included illegal flaring, fires, leaking tanks, and coke dust release that spread beyond the property line. The enforcement action aims to hold the company accountable and protect public health and safety. The matter remains developing and may receive further updates.

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