Valero Refinery Fire in Benicia Is Under Control After Warnings to Stay Indoors
May 5 – The fire comes just weeks after Valero executives announced they were considering closing the sprawling refinery by next April. (Including quotes by Larnie Fox and Pat Toth-Smith of Benicia.)

Benicia Contends With Valero Refinery Closure
May 5 KQED Forum – We talk about the possible closure of the Benicia Valero refinery and what it means for our region. (Guests include Benicia Mayor Steve Young)

Potential Valero Refinery Closure Leaves Benicia, State Officials Scrambling for Alternatives
Apr 26 – The potential closure of the massive Benicia oil refinery by next April would have a major impact on the city’s economy and the state’s oil supply. (Including comments of Benicia Mayor Steve Young and Benicia attorney-activist Terry Mollica.) 

‘Shocking News’: Valero Announces Plans to End Operations at Benicia Refinery
Apr 21 – Last week, the oil giant Valero announced that it will “idle, restructure, or cease operations” at its Benicia refinery that employs more than 400 workers. (Including comments of Benicia City Councilmember Kari Birdseye.)

Oil Giant Valero Looks to Shutter Troubled Bay Area Refinery. It’s ‘a Big Surprise’
Apr 16 – Months after Valero was hit with a record $82 million fine by air regulators, the company said it would ‘idle, restructure, or cease operations’ in Benicia by the end of April 2026. (Quotes by Benicia Mayor Steve Young and Benicia City Councilmember Kari Birdseye.)