Not satisfied with the property tax reduction gifted to it by the Contra Costa County Assessment Appeals Board, Chevron has now filed a lawsuit against Contra Costa County challenging the Assessment Appeals Board property tax assessment for 2004, 2005 and 2006.  Even though they are lower than the taxes assessed by the Assessor, Chevron alleges that the Board’s assessment is still too high.  The County has filed a cross-complaint alleging that the Board¹s assessment is too low.  The City of Richmond may, if it wishes, intervene in the lawsuit.

If Chevron were to prevail in the lawsuit, it could cost the City of Richmond as much a $26 million, which the City would have to return to Chevron. It would also take millions away from the West Contra Costa Unified School District, other special districts and Contra Costa County.

As reported by the city attorney in open session, the entire City Council, with the exception of Nat Bates, voted to intervene in the lawsuit to protect Richmond’s interests. Chevron is supporting Nat Bates campaign for mayor.

For some history, see:

• Blowback from Fisher Participation in Chevron Assessment Appeal Continues, November 11, 2009
• New Chevron Refinery Appeal Has County Seeing Ocean of Red Ink, October 24, 2009
• A Friend of Chevron Gives It a Costly Gift, October 21, 2009
• Chevron Prevails in Refinery Property Tax Appeal, September 4, 2009

 

Chevron has also filed an administrative appeal of the Assessor’s assessment for 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010.  No hearing dates have been set yet by the Assessment Appeals Board.