ON the northwestern corner of Contra Costa County is Richmond, a city of 94,000 that takes prides in its pro-growth, pro-business attitude.

To Richmond’s perch on San Francisco Bay, ocean-going tankers bring crude oil to Chevron Oil refineries, a major Richmond employer. In addition to its positive attitude toward growth, Richmond has excellent marinas, including Marina Bay; and Hilltop Mall, a regional shopping center.

Richmond originally was home to the Ohlone Indians, who were followed by Europeans of predominantly Spanish descent. It was incorporated in 1905.

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