Eureka City Council Calls on CalPERS to Divest from Companies Involved in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict

The Eureka City Council held a special session on August 26th, 2025, culminating in a unanimous decision to request that CalPERS, the California Public Employees' Retirement System, divest from companies contributing to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The meeting, attended by Mayor Bergel and Councilmembers Castellano, Molton, and Contreras Deloach (Councilmembers Fernandez and Bower were absent), included presentations by city officials and a robust public comment period.

City Manager Miles Slattery clarified that the request focuses on CalPERS' investments, not the city's own holdings. He highlighted CalPERS' substantial investments in Israeli entities and multinational corporations supplying military technology and logistical support to the conflict. Slattery noted CalPERS' history of divestment from other sectors, such as tobacco and firearms, based on various factors. Councilmember Fernandez's motion to send the letter, seconded by Councilmember Contreras Deloach, passed with no dissenting votes.

The public comment period featured numerous speakers, all strongly supporting the proposed letter. Speakers emphasized the moral imperative of divestment, citing the impact on humanitarian crises and drawing parallels to successful divestment campaigns against apartheid in South Africa. Several speakers, including CalPERS recipients, expressed frustration with the inability to opt out of investments they considered ethically problematic and highlighted the financial risks associated with continued investment in the conflict.

One speaker, identifying as an anti-Zionist Jew, powerfully stated the importance of cities taking action against genocide. Other comments detailed specific instances of alleged Israeli actions, including targeting of civilians and hospitals. While some speakers highlighted the Israeli government's claim of precision bombing, others refuted this, claiming the targeting of hospitals and aid stations. The Council will consider modifying the letter's language to specify that the divestment request targets companies, not individuals.

The council's decision reflects a growing movement within municipalities to advocate for ethical investment practices. While the exact wording of the letter to CalPERS is still under consideration, the decision marks a significant step for the City of Eureka. No specific deadlines or follow-up meetings were announced. For more information on city council agendas and minutes, please visit https://www.eurekaca.gov/662/Agendas-Minutes.