The city of Benicia, located north of San Francisco, presents an idyllic small town atmosphere yet is overshadowed by a massive 900-acre oil refinery. This refinery has been a pivotal part of the city since its establishment nearly 60 years ago, influencing both the economic landscape and the political dynamics of the area, while also posing public health risks. With a community that thrives on the jobs and revenue generated by this facility, many residents are caught between appreciating its economic contributions and recognizing the potential dangers it brings.

Valero Energy Corporation, which acquired the refinery from Exxon in 2000, has profited in an era when fossil fuels were the backbone of the American economy. Local businesses benefitted from the reliable tax revenue and employment this refinery provided, effectively knitting the facility into the fabric of Benicia's identity. However, as California emphasizes the need to shift towards renewable energy and reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, the looming question of the refinery's future arises, casting uncertainty over the city’s economic stability.

As Benicia contemplates its transition away from this oil dependency, the community faces challenges concerning job loss, economic rebirth, and long-term environmental health. The future of the oil refinery, once a symbol of prosperity, now reflects a broader narrative of change, forcing residents to reckon with the implications of moving towards a cleaner, more sustainable energy future while safeguarding their local economy and community identity.