Port Arthur, Texas is one of the nation’s most polluted communities. A cluster of refineries and petrochemical plants are permitted to release 1 million pounds of toxins. Accidental releases were reported to be 6 million pounds.

The majority of the population is African-American and suffers from high cancer rates, asthma rates and a variety of skin and other health complaints.

In 2006, Motiva (a Shell Oil subsidiary) applied for a permit from the state of Texas to expand their existing Port Arthur refinery to more than double its current production - which would make it the largest refinery in the nation.  

Global Community Monitor assembled a national team to work with the Port Arthur-based Community In Power and Development Association (CIDA), led by Hilton Kelley, to successfully block the permit and won major pollution reductions, a multi-million dollar community development foundation and community safety measures.

Our work in Port Arthur and with Hilton Kelley is a prime example of how a single Bucket Brigade training can open the door to the community winning stunning victories from major oil companies.