Please join EBLC’s Water, Energy & Environment Task Force for a discussion on the state of California’s fuel supply and the ongoing challenge of ensuring reliable and affordable fuel for residents and businesses across the state.
As California navigates refinery closures, changing energy demands, and growing concerns about affordability, the future of the state’s fuel supply chain remains uncertain. We will hear directly from an industry representatives at the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA) about the challenges facing California’s refining sector, the implications for the broader fuel supply chain, and opportunities to strengthen fuel reliability and affordability. The discussion will also explore recent state efforts to address refinery stability and what more may be needed to encourage continued investment in California’s energy infrastructure.
OUR SPEAKER

Bob Brown serves as Senior Director, CA Regional Affairs for the Western States Petroleum Association (WSPA). Through this role Bob leads the non-profit trade association’s state advocacy and regional government affairs efforts on behalf of the major oil refineries, mid-stream and producers for the five state energy trade association. He develops leadership partners, community engagement strategies, public awareness initiatives and issue analysis on behalf of the association. Bob’s efforts intersect at the local, state and federal level. Prior to joining WSPA Bob led AAA Northern California, Nevada, and Utah’s corporate communications, community relations, and advocacy efforts. He managed the auto club’s reputational external initiatives in subject areas including traffic safety, transportation, insurance, and energy. Bob also has experience in media, community and government relations with the U.S. Senate, the California Legislature, and California Department of Consumer Affairs. Bob serves on several diverse state and regional boards, including EBLC, where he previously served as Boarch Chair, and the East Bay Economic Development Alliance committees. He is a past Board member of the California Contractors State License Board, East Bay Regional Parks Foundation, and past chair of the Walnut Creek Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau.
Tuesday Oct 20, 2026
8:30 AM - 10:00 AM PDT
In-Person Event Only
Brown and Caldwell
201 North Civic Drive (Suite 300)
Walnut Creek, CA
Meg Stern, Policy Director
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Printed courtesy of www.eastbayleadershipcouncil.com – Contact the East Bay Leadership Council for more information.
P.O. Box 4096, Walnut Creek, CA 94596 – (925) 246-1880 – mark@eblcmail.org