Public Meetings - Oakland, California

The Oakland City Council held a special meeting on December 16, 2025, starting at 1:03 PM. The meeting covered a lengthy consent calendar, a major debate on expanding the Flock ALPR and community safety camera contract, a tree-removal penalty appeal, amendments to the council’s rules of procedure, and several other items. Public testimony was extensive, with 145 speakers on the Flock item alone. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar included 36 items, covering approvals of minutes, declarations of local emergencies (AIDS, cannabis, homelessness), cooperative agreements, business relief, campaign finance reform, honors, audit reports, salary ordinance amendments, software contracts, professional services, sustainable fleet transitions, traffic maintenance, a construction-mentor-protégé program, an electric-bike lending program, Bay-Rin decarbonization, an MOU with San Leandro, an exclusive negotiation agreement for Costco at the former Army base, zero-emission building appliance rules, grants for Peralta Hacienda, university affiliation, OPD citizen option for public safety grant, training services contracts, ceasefire evaluation, Lynn Marine contract, emergency amendments to the Oakland Fire Code, and more. - Item 5.10 (27th Street construction contract with Regwick) was pulled from consent by Councilmember Fife due to a recently occurring industrial accident in Hayward involving the contractor. The item was deferred to the January 6, 2026 meeting. - The remaining consent calendar was approved 8–0 as amended. Public Comments & Testimony - Consent Calendar (including Flock and other items): Approximately 145 people spoke on the Flock contract. Supporters cited reductions in carjackings (66% decrease), robberies (41% decrease), stolen vehicles (58% drop), and over 230 arrests and 68 firearms recovered using Flock ALPR. Opponents raised concerns about data sharing with ICE, past breaches, the company’s ties to federal agencies, and the lack of a competitive procurement process. Many speakers also addressed the 27th Street contract, the fire code amendment, the campaign finance reform, and the Costco ENA. - Tree Violation (Item 6.1): A few speakers, including the property owner and arborists, presented conflicting accounts regarding the number of trees removed (the city claims 38; the owner says 8). - Council Rules of Procedure (Item 8): Several speakers opposed the changes, arguing they would reduce public participation and were procedurally improper after a previous tie vote failed. - Audit Report (Item 10): Multiple community members spoke in support of Saba Grocers' Fresh 5X program, thanking the council for supporting food access. - Security Contract (Item 12): Speakers urged the council to pay outstanding invoices to ABC Security but asked for a shorter extension and reconsideration of other qualified bidders. Discussion Items - Flock Safety Camera System (Item 9): OPD presented data showing that since Flock ALPR deployment in July 2024, there have been 188,964,975 license plate reads, leading to 232 arrests, 68 firearms recovered, 573 “successful outcomes,” and significant reductions in carjackings and robberies. The department requested a two-year contract for 290 existing cameras plus 40 new pan-tilt-zoom community safety cameras at a cost of $2,252,500. After extensive public comment, Councilmembers Wong, Unger, and Brown offered multiple amendments strengthening data-sharing prohibitions, requiring quarterly certifications, a two-key approval system, an independent compliance audit by the city auditor, and a requirement for a new RFP within 18–24 months. The motion passed 7–1 (Fife dissenting). - Protected Tree Violation (Item 6.1): Public Works staff detailed the illegal removal of 38 protected trees on Claremont Avenue between February 2021 and May 2022. The property owner argued he removed only 8 trees and had obtained a permit. Given the factual discrepancies, the council voted 7–0 (Fife excused) to continue the matter to the February 3, 2026 meeting with the public hearing left open. - Council Rules of Procedure (Item 8): Proposed amendments sought to move non-consent items earlier, add a vice-chair role for committees, and make technical edits. After a tie vote in a previous meeting and the mayor declining to break it, the item was brought back. The council voted 5–3 (Fife, Gaio, Wong dissenting) to approve the amendments as modified by the removal of two provisions. - PFERS Charter Amendment (Item 11): A resolution to place a charter amendment on the June 2026 ballot to expand eligibility for the Police and Fire Retirement System board and reduce meeting frequency. The item was continued to the January 6, 2026 meeting by a 7–0 vote (Gaio absent). - Security Services Contract (Item 12): Staff requested a 15-month month-to-month extension of the ABC Security contract worth up to $6.75 million and payment of $818,989.40 in outstanding invoices. After debate on the procurement process and the possibility of using existing qualified bidders, the council approved a 12-month extension (including 6 months past due) on a 5–1–1 vote (Fife opposed, Jenkins abstained, Gaio absent). - Cooperative Purchase Agreements (Item 13): A resolution to approve ongoing cooperative purchase agreements for facilities maintenance up to $3.5 million was approved 7–0. Key Outcomes - Flock Contract Approved: Resolution approving the OPD surveillance use policy and a two-year contract with Flock Safety for ALPR and community safety cameras, with multiple amendments including a new RFP requirement within 18–24 months and independent audits. Vote: 7–1 (Fife no). - Tree Violation Continued: Public hearing and decision on the illegal tree removal penalty postponed to February 3, 2026. Vote: 7–0. - Council Rules of Procedure Amended: Resolution adopting changes to council rules (excluding two previously proposed provisions) passed 5–3. - PFERS Ballot Measure Continued: Charter amendment resolution continued to January 6, 2026. Vote: 7–0. - ABC Security Contract Extended: Approved a 12-month month-to-month extension and payment of outstanding invoices. Vote: 5–1–1 (Fife no, Jenkins abstain). - Cooperative Purchase Agreements Approved: Resolution for facilities maintenance contracts approved 7–0.

The Rules and Legislation Committee met on Thursday, December 11, 2025, at 10:31 AM to consider scheduling items and recommendations from other committees. The meeting covered new scheduling items requiring bypass of committee (Rule 24), forwarded items from subcommittees, and a discussion on the Flock automated license plate reader contract. A special council meeting was announced for December 16, 2025, at 1 PM. Consent Calendar - Numerous items from the Finance and Management Committee, Public Works and Transportation Committee, Community and Economic Development Committee, Life Enrichment Committee, and Public Safety Committee were approved to be forwarded to the December 16, 2025 City Council agenda (mostly on consent). Key approved items include: performance audit of the Kids First Oakland Children's Fund (3.7), salary ordinance amendments (3.8, moved to consent), HDL software tax solution contract (3.9), sustainable fleet transition grants (3.13), grant agreements for Peralta Hacienda Historical Park (3.23) and others. The following amendments were adopted: for the salary ordinance (3.8), the minimum wage rate was raised from $16.89 to $20.00; for the Francisco and Associates engineering services contract (3.11), the waiver of local/small local business enterprise requirements was stricken. Public Comments & Testimony - On Flock camera contract (Item 3.2): The majority of public speakers opposed the contract, citing concerns over mass surveillance, data sharing with federal agencies (including ICE), security vulnerabilities, lack of transparency, and the vendor's ties to far-right billionaires. Speakers noted that the contract failed in the Public Safety Committee and the Privacy Advisory Commission. Some speakers supported moving the item to full council for broader discussion. Councilmember Houston and staff from Councilmembers Wang and Ogre spoke in favor of forwarding the item to the full council. Rajni Mandal (District 4) later in Open Forum supported the committee's decision to advance the Flock item and criticized what she described as misinformation and intimidation tactics by opponents. Discussion Items - Item 3.2 – Flock Safety Contract: Councilmember Fife reiterated her position that she supports community safety cameras but opposes this vendor due to concerns about transparency, data sharing, and the vendor's track record. She noted the item failed (tied) in the Public Safety Committee and should return there for further deliberation. Staff from OPD argued the contract is urgent because the current CHP agreement has expired, and without a new contract the city would lose access to the camera system. - Other new scheduling items (3.1, 3.3–3.6): Staff provided Rule 24 urgency justifications. Item 3.1 (resolution honoring Coach John Beam) was bypassed to consent. Item 3.3 (cooperative purchase agreements for public works) was justified for winter break work. Items 3.4–3.6 were scheduled for future committee dates. - Item 4 – Draft Agendas: Administration requested removal of two items from the Life Enrichment Committee pending list (SSBT informational report and SSB advisory board grants). The January 13, 2026 Finance Committee meeting was cancelled. Key Outcomes - Vote on new scheduling items (Item 3 – motion to forward): The motion passed 4–1, with Councilmember Fife voting no specifically on Item 3.2. All other items were approved as scheduled. (Councilmembers Brown, Ramachandran, Jenkins voted aye; Fife voted no on 3.2.) - Item 4 (draft agendas) approved as amended (4–0, with all present aye). - The Flock camera contract will be placed on the December 16, 2025 special City Council agenda for full discussion and vote. - The next Rules and Legislation Committee meeting was scheduled for December 18, 2025.

The Oakland Public Ethics Commission (PEC) held a special meeting on December 10, 2025, beginning at 6:33 p.m., chaired by Commissioner Francis Upton. A quorum of four commissioners (Gage, Michigan, Talok, Upton) was present; Commissioners Baeva and Steele were absent. The meeting focused on proposed amendments to the Oakland Campaign Reform Act (OCRA) and an informational item on remote public participation via Zoom. Public Comments & Testimony - Ralph Cannes spoke during open forum, alleging that the PEC has violated the Brown Act by holding un-noticed ad hoc subcommittee meetings with staff or public participation, and that the process for selecting new commissioners must be public under the city charter. He also referenced a 2017 city attorney legal opinion to argue that special city council meetings called under Charter Section 208 are limited to a single subject and that recent meetings on September 15 and November 4 should be nullified. - During the action item, Ralph Cannes commented again, questioning the purpose of officeholder accounts and asserting they function as vote-buying slush funds. He also argued the Democracy Dollars program is prohibitively expensive, citing Seattle's 46% administrative overhead. - Diaz Arm of Common Cause California spoke in opposition to raising annual contribution limits for officeholder accounts, stating the increase would deepen dependence on large donors and worsen inequities. He supported the amendment to prohibit officeholder-funded mailers within three months of an election and encouraged the commission to continue exploring Democracy Dollars. Discussion Items Action Item: Proposed Amendments to the Oakland Campaign Reform Act (OCRA) Staff Director Suzanne Doran presented three components of draft legislation requested by Council President Jenkins: 1. Extension of the sunset date – The temporary increase in campaign contribution limits (to pre-Measure W levels) had been set to sunset June 30, 2029, or earlier if Democracy Dollars thresholds were met. The proposed six-month extension would align deadlines for 2028 candidates. 2. Increase in officeholder account contribution limits – Raising the annual per-donor limit from the current Measure W level to $900 for individuals and $1,800 for broad-based political committees, matching temporary candidate limits. Staff noted that 21% of individual contributions (accounting for a majority of funds) were at the maximum limit, and the increase would amplify large-donor influence. 3. Mailer prohibition – Barring officeholder funds from being used for mailings within three months of any election for city office. Staff supported this guardrail as consistent with FPPC guidance. Commissioners debated each component: - Extension of sunset: Commissioners Michigan and Talok opposed, citing the council’s disregard of the commission’s earlier recommendation for a 2026 sunset and the lack of justification. Commissioners Gage and Upton remained neutral. No consensus was reached; the commission directed staff to reflect the split in the comment letter. - Officeholder limit increase: All four commissioners opposed. They cited the council’s failure to address prior requests for justification and guardrails, the potential for increased donor influence and inequity, and the existence of behested payments as an alternative. The commission voted unanimously to oppose. - Mailer prohibition: All four commissioners supported the amendment as a common-sense measure to prevent campaign-related advantages. Informational Item: Remote Public Comment via Zoom Staff outlined a proposal to allow hybrid meetings, enabling public participation and potentially commissioner participation under Brown Act just-cause provisions. The PEC already streams meetings via Zoom but does not allow public comment online. Staff noted that implementing hybrid meetings would require dedicated staffing to monitor the Zoom room and would create an expectation of continued availability. Commissioners expressed support for moving forward, with no objections. The item was informational only; no vote was taken. Key Outcomes - The commission voted 4-0 to send a comment letter to the City Council reflecting: - Opposition to the increase in officeholder account contribution limits. - Support for the mailer prohibition. - A split view on the extension of the sunset date (two opposed, two neutral), with staff to summarize the opposing commissioners' reasons. - Commissioners agreed to proceed with implementing hybrid meeting capabilities to allow remote public comment, with staff to finalize logistics. - Chair Upton suggested the commission could consider proposing its own amendment to eliminate officeholder accounts at a future meeting, given the commission’s role in administering OCRA.

The Public Works Committee met on December 9, 2025, at 11:32 AM in City Council chambers. Four members were present: Councilmember Guyo, Councilmember Houston, Councilmember Wong, and Chair Unger. All eight agenda items were unanimously approved (4-0) and forwarded to the December 16 City Council consent agenda. The meeting also included public comments and open forum. Public Comments & Testimony - Mrs. Sada Olabala spoke on multiple items: criticized the term BIPOC in city reports, asked about funding for environmentally preferable purchasing, questioned the comparative costs and insurance of electric vehicles, requested multilingual traffic signs, expressed safety concerns about e-bikes in certain areas, and noted the lack of safe EV charging stations in Oakland. - Kevin Daly (Transport Oakland) supported the ADA compliance waiver (Item 6) and the e-bike program (Item 7), and raised concerns about moving parking policy to the Finance Department without council discussion. - Blair Beekman asked about technology in procurement for ADA work, thanked the committee for starting the e-bike program at Fruitvale BART, and discussed Flock contract alternatives. - Sam Wilson (Bike Hub) spoke in support of the e-bike lending program, noting 50% of rentals have gone to low-income residents. Discussion Items Item 1: Approval of Minutes (October 28 & November 18, 2025) - Motion by Councilmember Guyo, seconded by Councilmember Houston. Approved 4-0. Item 2: Determination of Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items - Public comment from Mrs. Olabala raised concerns about enforcement of parking violations, encampment policy, and an expired ABC security contract. Motion to accept as is, passed 4-0. Item 3: Environmentally Preferable Purchasing Policy Update - Staff present: Jeffrey Wong (Public Works). The policy aligns with SB 1383, the 2030 Equitable Climate Action Plan, and the reusable foodware ordinance. No additional costs. Councilmember Guyo asked about cooking oil dumping enforcement; staff said education and enforcement are underway. Councilmember Wong asked about the $100,000 annual cost for SB 1383 compliance; staff said the policy will save tens of thousands of dollars annually. Motion to forward to consent, passed 4-0. Item 4: Grant Funds for Clean Heavy-Duty Vehicles and EV Infrastructure - Staff: Richard Battersby. Accepting $4.8 million in grants, requiring $7.1 million match, appropriating $4.3 million from city funds. Projects include 119 EV chargers, 4 battery electric vehicles, 3 electric street sweepers, and 1 electric refuse truck. Timeline: 12-24 months. Councilmember Guyo discussed OUSD collaboration. Councilmember Houston questioned procurement through Sourcewell. Councilmember Wong asked about performance benefits; staff cited increased capacity and noise reduction. Motion to forward to consent, passed 4-0. Item 5: Traffic Sign and Pavement Marking Supplies Contract - Staff: unnamed (likely DOT). Award contract to Safe Boys Signs Inc., $2.5 million over 5 years. Only two bids received, one non-responsive. Councilmember Houston asked about advertising; staff said online and city organ. Councilmember Wong requested estimated number of signs but none provided. Motion to forward to consent, passed 4-0. Item 6: Waiver of SLBE Requirements for ADA Compliance Work - Staff: Josh Rowan (DOT). Cleans up previous waiver to include local hiring and apprenticeship requirements. City has 25 years to comply with ADA settlement. Councilmember Houston preferred in-house but staff said they are not ready. Councilmember Wong said waiving will enable rapid compliance. Motion to forward to consent, passed 4-0. Item 7: E-Bike Lending Program - Grant and Contract Extension - Staff: Kirby (DOT). Accept $800,000 additional grant from CalSTART, extend contract with Bike Hub for 4 years at $264,812 total. Program launched September 2025 with 50 e-bikes; 30 rentals to date. Councilmember Guyo made motion. Motion to forward to consent, passed 4-0. Item 8: BayREN Technical Assistance for Building Decarbonization - Staff: Nick Kordash (Sustainability). Accept $100,000 and free engineering for energy audits at Temescal Library, install electric heat pump. No matching required. Motion by Councilmember Houston, seconded by Councilmember Guyo. Passed 4-0. Open Forum - Kevin Daly opposed moving parking policy to Finance without council discussion. - Blair Beekman urged community dialogue on the future of the Flock ALPR contract. - Mrs. Olabala highlighted $35 million in DOT lawsuits that could have funded homeless services. Key Outcomes - All agenda items (1-8) passed unanimously (4-0) and were forwarded to the December 16, 2025 City Council consent agenda. - Chair Unger made a comment about rising gasoline prices due to refinery closures, encouraging alternative transportation. - The meeting adjourned after open forum.

The Oakland City Council’s Finance and Management Committee met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, starting at 9:30 AM. All four committee members were present: Councilmembers Brown, Unger, Wong, and Chair Ramachandran. The committee approved previous meeting minutes, scheduled outstanding items, and acted on six substantive items, including an audit of the Kids’ First Fund, salary schedule amendments, an IT software contract, the redevelopment agency’s Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (ROPS), and an engineering services agreement. Several items were forwarded to the December 16, 2025 City Council meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of Draft Minutes (October 28, 2025 and November 18, 2025 special meeting) – Approved 4-0. - Determination to Schedule Outstanding Committee Items (Pending List) – Approved 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Members of the public spoke on multiple items. - Ms. Lassada raised concerns about the City of Oakland fully funding $700,000 for the 2025 World Cup, noting that the City of Alameda had already budgeted $150,000 and that other jurisdictions were expected to share the cost. She requested a report on how Oakland became solely responsible. - David Boatwright (District 4) on the Kids’ First audit: questioned why the audit did not detail how funds were spent or who benefited, and noted that exhibits were cut off in the online version. - Ms. Lassada on the audit: pointed out that the city did not always meet the 3% set-aside requirement, that corrections were not always accurate, that documentation was partial, and that staff expressed uncertainty about the requirements. She also highlighted the lack of a permanent Human Services director. - Ms. Lassada on the minimum wage amendment: noted that California’s fast-food minimum wage is $25/hour and Oakland’s hotel minimum wage is $18.36 with health benefits or $24.48 without, arguing the proposed $20/hour for senior aides is still too low. - Mr. Boatwright on item 6 (ROPS): questioned whether the $268.9 million outstanding debt is decreasing, and asked for more detailed information on how payments impact the city budget. - Ms. Lassada on the ROPS report: asked about a $3.3 million bad debt that would not be reimbursed, and why a racial equity analysis was not conducted. - Ms. Lassada on the engineering services contract (item 7): expressed concern that the contract allowed extensions “without returning to council,” particularly for homeless services, and asked whether landscaping and lighting maintenance includes trimming trees that block street lights. - Two speakers in open forum: (1) A representative from Transport Oakland opposed moving parking policy from Transportation to Finance, arguing it should remain under the Department of Transportation established by Council. (2) Ms. Lassada repeated concerns about the World Cup funding and suggested that one person cannot oversee both Public Works and Transportation. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Audit of the Kids’ First Oakland Children’s Fund (FY 2018–19 through FY 2023–24) - City Auditor Michael C. Houston presented the audit. Key findings: The city did not always meet the exact 3% set-aside requirement from unrestricted General Purpose Fund revenues; overpayments and underpayments occurred in different years. The audit recommended a one-time transfer of $203,973 from the Kids’ First Fund back to the General Purpose Fund. The city did meet or exceed the baseline spending requirement (≥5.35% of GPF expenditures) every year, with a high of $29.3 million over the minimum in FY 2023–24, largely due to Measure AA (Oakland Children’s Initiative) funds. The audit also recommended the Finance Department finalize formal guidance for set-asides and true-ups. The administration agreed with the recommendations. - Council discussion centered on the complexity of percentage‑based budgeting, potential impacts on nonprofit providers, and the interaction between Measure AA’s non‑supplantation requirements and the baseline spending formula. Finance Director Brad Johnson clarified that the 3% set‑aside is exact, while the 5.35% baseline is a minimum; exceeding it does not violate the charter but may have service implications. - The committee voted 4‑0 to receive and forward the item to the December 16 City Council consent agenda. - Item 4 – Classification Plan Amendments and Salary Schedule Changes - HR staff presented three actions: (a) increase the part‑time Senior Aid classification to $17.34/hour to comply with the 2026 minimum wage ordinance; (b) increase the Park Equipment Operator salary to align with Class A CDL requirements; and (c) create two new exempt administrator positions (Payroll Administrator and Procurement & Contracts Administrator) within the Finance Department. - Chair Ramachandran proposed an amendment to raise the Senior Aid rate from $17.34 to $20.00/hour, arguing that minimum wage is insufficient and that a salary survey is unnecessary for such a small increase. Councilmember Wong seconded the amendment. HR Director Mary Howe noted the position is unrepresented but recommended a market survey before adjusting wages. After debate, the amendment carried. - The committee also discussed labor relations: Councilmember Unger expressed concern that the new administrator positions were being created before meet‑and‑confer with affected unions about the planned centralization of payroll. Staff maintained that the structure itself is a management right, though impacts on represented employees would be subject to bargaining. - The committee voted 4‑0 to approve the staff recommendations as amended (Senior Aid at $20/hour) and forward the legislation to the December 16 City Council meeting on non‑consent due to labor concerns. - Item 5 – Waiver of Competitive Bid and Contract with HDL Software - Staff requested a waiver of the competitive multi‑step solicitation and L/SLBE requirements to enter a new 5‑year, $1.67 million contract with HDL Software LLC for tax software technical support, maintenance, and printing/mailing services. The current contract expires January 2027; the new contract begins January 2026 to allow integration with a new citywide cashiering system. - Councilmember Wong asked about integrating systems to help address nuisance businesses (e.g., human trafficking hotspots). Revenue & Tax Administrator Nicole Welch described a planned tip line and outreach (74,000 postcards to parcel owners) but noted a full Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is not yet in place. - The committee voted 4‑0 to approve and forward to the December 16 consent agenda. - Item 6 – Redevelopment Successor Agency ROPS and Administrative Budget (FY 2026–27) - Brittany Hines reported outstanding obligations of $268.9 million as of November 1, 2025, with $33.8 million in enforceable obligations through FY 2026–27. A supplemental report will add line item 75 (Uptown Prop 1C grant interest). Most payments are debt service through 2041, plus $607,000 in administrative costs. - No council questions; the committee voted 4‑0 to forward to the December 16 consent agenda. - Item 7 – Engineering Services Contract with Francisco & Associates - Jose Segura presented a resolution to authorize a 3‑year contract (with two 1‑year extensions) for engineering services for the Landscaping and Lighting Assessment District (LLAD) and other voter‑approved measures, total not to exceed $550,000. The annual fee ($100,000) represents 0.05% of the $196 million in assessments generated. The RFP process found no certified L/SLBE firms qualified, so staff recommended striking the L/SLBE waiver language from the title and resolve clause. - Councilmember Wong questioned why the county assessor could not perform the work; staff explained it is standard practice for municipalities to contract with certified engineers. - The committee voted 4‑0 to approve as amended (removing the L/SLBE waiver references) and forward to the December 16 consent agenda. - Item 8 – Withdrawn - The information report on ratings for the GO Bond Series 2025 was withdrawn and rescheduled to January 27, 2026. Key Outcomes - All items passed unanimously (4‑0). - Item 4 (Senior Aid salary) – Amended to raise the rate from $17.34 to $20.00/hour; forwarded on non‑consent. - Item 7 (Engineering contract) – Amended to remove L/SLBE waiver language; forwarded on consent. - Items 3, 5, 6 – Forwarded to December 16 City Council meeting on consent. - Directive: Chair Ramachandran stated she will bring a request to the first Rules Committee of 2026 for an informational report on all city classifications earning under $25/hour, including whether positions are represented or unrepresented, to inform a potential expedited salary survey.

The Oakland City Council Public Safety Committee met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 6:01 PM for its final meeting of the year. The committee approved multiple contracts and grant allocations aimed at supporting police operations, violence prevention training, program evaluation, and removal of abandoned vessels. All votes were unanimous (4-0). Consent Calendar - Item 1: Approval of Draft Minutes – The committee unanimously approved minutes from meetings held on July 8, 2025, July 22, 2025, September 10, 2025, September 30, 2025, October 14, 2025, and the special meeting on November 18, 2025. Public Comments & Testimony - Ms. Sada (public speaker) raised concerns about the city's lack of discussion regarding organized crime (Mexican Mafia, MS-13) and questioned whether ceasefire strategies can address cartel-related violence. She also asked about NSA compliance funding, rape kit backlogs, and the qualifications for life coaches. - Blair Beekman (public speaker via Zoom) expressed support for non-law enforcement approaches to crime and urged continued federal funding for such programs. He also commented on surveillance technology policies. - David Boatright (District 4) questioned the benefits of violence prevention spending ($5.5 million) and requested clearer evidence of outcomes. - Jennifer Finley (public speaker) was listed but her comment was not audible. Discussion Items - Item 2: Determination of Scheduled Outstanding Committee Items – The committee accepted the pending list as amended by withdrawing Item 6 (OPD surveillance report) at staff's request. Deputy Chief Lisa Osmus explained that the surveillance use policy requires a council resolution rather than an informational report. The item will be rescheduled for early 2026. Councilmember Houston requested that future reports include data on charges and convictions, not just arrests. - Item 3: COPS Grant Allocation (FY 2024-2025) – Staff presented a combined state grant award of $1,381,009 ($850,072 for FY 2024 and $529,937 for FY 2025). Funds will support helicopter maintenance, computer/technology upgrades, crime lab equipment, training, marketing, and supplies. Councilmembers discussed using grants for officer hiring, signing bonuses, and community service officers. Staff noted that the amounts are insufficient for sustained hiring and that prior large grants caused budget issues. Officer Brandon Martin detailed helicopter maintenance costs ($850,000/year) and advocated for fixed-wing aircraft as a quieter, more cost-effective alternative. The committee approved the resolution. - Item 4: Professional Services Agreements for Training – Vanetta Thomas (DVP Training Manager) requested approval of two contracts: $75,000 with Bright Research Group for life coaching and capacity-building services, and $36,000 with ROCA Inc. for cognitive behavioral theory training. Both contracts waive competitive bidding. Chief Holly Joshi clarified that life coaching certification was developed in response to frontline workers' demands for professional training, and that the city recently graduated 12 life coaches. Councilmember Houston asked about “healthy masculinity” and motivational interviewing. The committee approved the item. - Item 5: Amendment to University of Pennsylvania Evaluation Contract – Jillian Kaplan (DVP Program Planner) presented an amendment adding $362,087 (total $439,952) and extending the term to December 31, 2028, for an impact evaluation of the Ceasefire Lifeline strategy. The evaluation will now include analysis of shooting/homicide changes attributable to the program and qualitative interviews. Lead researchers Dr. Anthony Braga and Dr. Lisa Barrow have prior experience evaluating Oakland's ceasefire. Councilmember Fife and Chief Joshi emphasized that ceasefire is not a silver bullet and that a multi-pronged approach is needed. The committee approved the amendment. - Item 6: OPD Surveillance Use Policy – Withdrawn from the agenda during Item 2. - Item 7: Abandoned Vessel Removal Contract – Officer Oscar Ryan Smith (Marine Unit) requested urgency approval for a $1,456,258 contract with Lynn Marine to remove 40 sunken and 20–25 abandoned vessels from the Oakland Estuary. The work is funded by state and federal grants and must be completed before winter to avoid navigational and environmental hazards and potential fines. The committee approved the urgency finding and the contract. Key Outcomes - All items passed unanimously (4-0), with Councilmembers Brown, Fife, Houston, and Chair Wong voting yes. - Items 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 7 were forwarded to the December 16, 2025 City Council meeting for approval on the consent calendar. - Item 6 was withdrawn and will be rescheduled in early 2026. - Staff will provide an informational report on external funding sources for police signing bonuses, as requested by Chair Wong. - Councilmember Houston’s request for arrest vs. charge/conviction data on Flock technology will be included in future reports.

The Life Enrichment Committee of the Oakland City Council met on December 9, 2025, at 4:02 PM. Four members were present (Councilmembers Gallo, Houston, Wong, and Chair Fife). The committee approved draft minutes, discussed outstanding items, introduced a new Human Services Director, and voted on grant agreements and an informational report on Head Start. All motions passed 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (Schedule of Outstanding Items): A public speaker (Asada Olabala) criticized conditions at McClymonds High School, citing toxic soil, broken scoreboard, non-functional PA system, rats, lack of ADA accessibility, and inequitable treatment of Black students. The speaker urged the city to address disparities for African Americans. - Item 3 (Peralta Hacienda Grant): Four speakers (Miguel Lopez, Xavier Beckett, Carmelita Andrews, Jai Wen Lee) expressed strong support, describing the program's positive impact on youth leadership, confidence, and community service. One speaker (Asada Olabala) questioned why this organization receives independent funding while others must apply through competitive processes, and highlighted lack of support for African American institutions. - Item 4 (USF Nursing Affiliation): Two speakers (Asada Olabala, Samuel Raimi) raised concerns: Olabala asked about coverage of chronic conditions (hypertension, diabetes), inclusion of homeless seniors, and projected numbers; Raimi emphasized the need for professional, educated nurses and criticized systemic inequities. - Item 5 (Head Start Report): Speaker David Boatwright praised the report and suggested tracking long-term outcomes for program participants. Speaker Asada Olabala voiced concerns about travel expenses, lack of staff inclusion, allegations of mistreatment, and lawsuits, and said she could not fully support the program until issues are resolved. - Open Forum: Latanya Simmons thanked the committee and proposed a pilot program using trail cameras to combat illegal dumping, noting cost-effectiveness. Asada Olabala criticized Oakland Unified School District (OUSD) for avoiding school closures and mismanaging resources, calling for action on McClymonds. Discussion Items - Item 1: Approval of Draft Minutes – Minutes from October 14 and November 18, 2025, were approved unanimously. - Item 2: Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items – The committee approved the schedule. Chair Fife introduced the new Human Services Director, Dr. Jason Lester, who shared his background and vision. Councilmember Gallo motioned to invite OUSD to present on its financial condition and investments in East Oakland schools. - Item 3: Peralta Hacienda Grant Agreement – The committee heard a presentation from Pamela Mateira (Acting Cultural Funding Coordinator) on the two-year, $91,800 grant to support youth programs, cultural events, and maintenance. Youth speakers highlighted personal growth and community impact. Councilmembers praised the program. The item was forwarded to the City Council consent agenda. - Item 4: USF School of Nursing Affiliation – Anna Bactus (Human Services Manager) presented an addendum to the existing affiliation agreement, enabling nurse-led and public health initiatives for older adults, with in-kind services valued up to $150,000/year for three years. The program includes health screenings, fall prevention, and nutrition education. Councilmember Wong commended the effort. The item was forwarded to City Council consent. - Item 5: Head Start Informational Report – Staff presented a comprehensive report: the program achieved non-competitive renewal status and six strong practices designations in a federal review; a compensation study found salaries 13.54% below market; and enrollment data showed 23% of children experiencing homelessness. Councilmembers discussed the salary gap, federal compliance requirements (must match school district salaries by 2031), and program options (center-based, home-based, family child care). Chair Fife raised concerns about federal funding threats and attracting staff. The report was received and filed. Key Outcomes - Item 1: Approved draft minutes (4-0). - Item 2: Approved the schedule of outstanding committee items (4-0). Chair Fife directed staff to invite OUSD to a future meeting. - Item 3: Approved the resolution to enter into a grant agreement with Friends of Peralta Hacienda Historical Park and forwarded to the December 16 City Council consent agenda (4-0). - Item 4: Approved the resolution to accept in-kind services from USF School of Nursing and forwarded to the December 16 City Council consent agenda (4-0). - Item 5: Received and filed the informational report on Head Start services (4-0). The committee noted ongoing challenges with staff salaries, recruitment, and facilities.

The Community and Economic Development (CED) Committee met on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 1:30 PM under Chair Brown. The meeting covered agenda items including approval of minutes, a pending list, a jurisdictional MOU with San Leandro, a resolution to begin negotiations with Costco/DECA for a warehouse at the former Oakland Army Base, an informational report on the cannabis equity program, an urgency resolution supporting Bay Area Air District rules 9-4 and 9-6 (zero-emission building appliance standards), and an urgency ordinance adopting the 2025 California Fire Code with local amendments. Public comment was limited to one minute per speaker. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Approval of Draft Minutes – Minutes from October 28, 2025, and the special meeting of November 18, 2025, were approved unanimously (4-0). - Item 2: Determination to Schedule Outstanding Committee Items – The pending list was accepted unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 (MOU with San Leandro): Speaker Ms. Asada questioned why San Leandro would be the lead agency when the majority of the property is in Oakland and raised concerns about the lack of a contract with Piedmont for library services. - Item 4 (Costco ENA): 19 speakers registered. Supporters included Stephanie Tran (small business owner, sees Costco as creating jobs and affordable supplies), Petra Brady (Oakland African American Chamber of Commerce, full support), Christina Tostado (Costco employee for 20 years, described strong wages and benefits), Kathleen Uribe (Oakland resident, lauded Costco’s ethics), Sean Granberry (Oakland resident, 100% support), and Travis Duncan (DECA developer, emphasized early stage and community benefits). Opponents included Sanford Forte (warned of increased traffic and pollution, questioned loss of local jobs and tax revenue) and Ray Kidd (concerned that Costco would preempt relocation of polluting industry Cast Metals to the site). The Prescott Chair (Zoom) requested an RFP rather than exclusive negotiation. - Item 5 (Cannabis Equity): Two speakers. Ricky McCullough (equity operator) praised the grant program for its ease of access. Joshua Chase (operator) credited the program for his ability to own 100% of his business and employ 20 local workers. Ms. Asada questioned the program’s success, citing struggles and attrition. - Item 6 (Air District Rules): Two speakers. Sam Fishman (SPUR) emphasized the breadth of engagement and urged support. Derek Barnes supported the goals but urged caution about retrofitting old multifamily buildings. Ms. Asada criticized the city’s failure to address lead paint, seismic safety, and Army Base pollution. - Item 7 (Fire Code): Two speakers. George Spees (Traffic Violence Rapid Response) praised collaboration between OFD and OakDot but preferred project‑by‑project flexibility. Kevin Daly (Transport Oakland) opposed codifying minimum street widths (Appendix D and Section 503), arguing they encourage speeding and were not deemed urgent three years ago. Ms. Asada asked about gated community access and ADU accessibility. Discussion Items - Item 3: MOU with City of San Leandro – Staff (Jana Wismer) presented that the property straddles the border; the Oakland portion is a parking lot with no structures. San Leandro will process all planning and building permits as lead agency. No questions from committee. Motion passed unanimously to forward to the December 16 City Council consent agenda. - Item 4: Costco Exclusive Negotiating Agreement (ENA) – Councilmember Fife presented the resolution as a preliminary step to allow discussion with Costco/DECA. He noted the site has been undeveloped for 20 years, legal restrictions prevent residential use, and the project could bring significant tax revenue and jobs. He committed to extensive community engagement, starting Dec 18. City Administrator Johnson and Director Moriarty supported the item, stating an ENA would later require analysis of whether a competitive RFP is needed. Councilmember Unger asked why exclusive instead of RFP; staff responded that the OMC allows waiver and analysis will be done. Motion passed 4-0 to forward to Dec 16 City Council consent agenda. - Item 5: Cannabis Equity Program Informational Report – Staff (Kat Torrio and Darlene Flynn) presented the program’s history, current status (211 equity businesses), and use of GoBiz 6 grant funding. New initiatives include startup grants, cannabis café conversions, and special events. Staff noted staffing needs and plans to improve record‑keeping. Councilmembers asked about geographic tracking and predatory partnership prevention. The report was received and filed unanimously (4-0). - Item 6: Resolution Supporting Bay Area Air District Rules 9-4 and 9-6 – Councilmember Wong introduced the urgency resolution, citing public health benefits (85 premature deaths/year, 15,000 asthma attacks) and the need to support timely implementation with flexibility for low‑income residents and small businesses. Staff confirmed the rulemaking process includes exemptions and a December 10 hearing. Motion passed 4-0 to forward to Dec 16 City Council consent agenda. - Item 7: 2025 California Fire Code Adoption and Local Amendments – Fire Marshal White and Assistant Fire Marshal Smith presented the code adoption, focusing on Section 503 (20‑foot minimum fire access road width) and Appendix D (26‑foot width for aerial apparatus access). They stressed collaboration with OakDot and BPAC, and that the code provides clear minimums to streamline development. Councilmember Unger introduced an amendment to require licensed contractors for smoke damper certification (sections G1 and G2). Councilmember Fife raised concerns about street width leading to speeding and asked if Appendix D could be removed. Staff argued removal would hinder emergency response and that the collaborative approach works. The committee voted 4-0 to approve as amended and forward to Dec 16 City Council consent agenda. Key Outcomes - All consent items (1, 2) approved unanimously. - Item 3 (MOU with San Leandro) approved unanimously and forwarded to City Council consent. - Item 4 (Costco ENA) approved unanimously and forwarded to City Council consent; community meeting scheduled Dec 18. - Item 5 (Cannabis Equity) received and filed unanimously. - Item 6 (Air District Resolution) approved unanimously and forwarded to City Council consent. - Item 7 (Fire Code Adoption) approved with amendments (smoke damper contractor certification) unanimously and forwarded to City Council consent. - Public comment for Costco and fire code raised significant opposition to street width requirements and exclusive negotiation; committee acknowledged concerns but opted for continued collaboration.

The Rules and Legislation Committee met on December 4, 2025, at 10:32 AM to consider scheduling for upcoming council and committee meetings, a business tax relief ballot measure, a charter amendment for the police and fire retirement board, and campaign finance ordinance cleanup. The committee approved most items, some with urgency findings, and scheduled them for future dates. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes from November 13 and 20, 2025 (motion by Brown, second by Fife; 4 ayes). Public Comments & Testimony - Naomi Schiff (Oakland Heritage Alliance) opposed item 3.9 (billboard agreement), citing environmental harm and the need to include East Bay Regional Parks District. - Amelia Marshall (Oakland resident) opposed the billboard proposal, especially near Lake Temescal, calling it environmentally damaging. - Ranjini Mandal (District 4) urged that the billboard proposal (3.9) be discussed with the community prior to scheduling, and supported OPD surveillance technology reports. - George Spees (Traffic Violence Rapid Response) raised concerns about item 3.6 (fire code) regarding street design sections and urged committee review. - Kevin Daly (Transport Oakland) also spoke on item 3.6, noting that amendments had not been published and that California's fire code is more progressive; he recommended sending relevant sections to the public works committee. - Blair Beekman commented on multiple items, including the need for more dialogue on the Flock ALPR contract and the importance of committee review. - Kevin Daly (in open forum) noted the broken electronic speaker card system that limits public participation. - Ranjini Mandal (open forum) discussed the NSA, police compliance, and charter reform related to the police commission. Discussion Items - Item 3.1 (Resolution supporting Bay Area Air District zero-emission building appliance rules): Originally scheduled for CED on Dec 9 with urgency, but speaker noted it would miss the Dec 10 air district deadline. Scheduled to CED Dec 9 with urgency finding. - Item 3.2 (Sewer contract increases): Approved to go to Dec 16 City Council on consent. - Item 3.3 (Abandoned vessel removal contract): Sponsor changed from Councilmember Wong to OPD. Sent to Public Safety Committee Dec 9 with urgency finding. - Item 3.4 (Property tax liens): Scheduled as public hearing for Dec 16 City Council. - Item 3.5 (City auditor follow-up report): Scheduled for Dec 16 City Council on non-consent. - Item 3.6 (Emergency ordinance adopting 2025 California Fire Code): Moved to CED Dec 9 with urgency finding after Councilmember Fife requested committee discussion. - Item 3.7 (ABC Security Services contract extension): Sent to Dec 16 City Council on non-consent. Several members expressed frustration over last-minute delays. - Item 3.8 (Summer food service grant): Scheduled for Life Enrichment Committee Jan 13, 2026. - Item 3.9 (Advertising signs relocation agreement with Outfront): Despite objections from Councilmember Ramachandran regarding site transparency and potential harm to Lake Temescal, the item was scheduled for CED Feb 10, 2026 and City Council Feb 17, 2026 as a public hearing. Vote was 4 ayes; Ramachandran voted no. - Item 4 (Draft agendas): Approved with amendment to move finance item from Dec 9 to Jan 27, 2026. - Item 5 (Business tax relief ballot measure): Approved to go to Dec 16 City Council on non-consent (unanimous). - Item 6 (Charter amendment for Police/Fire Retirement Board): Approved with a non-substantive amendment; forwarded to Dec 16 City Council on non-consent (unanimous). - Item 7 (Campaign finance ordinance cleanup): Approved with urgency finding; forwarded to Dec 16 City Council on consent (unanimous). Key Outcomes - All scheduling items were approved with the following assignments: - Items 3.1, 3.6: CED Dec 9 (urgency) - Item 3.3: Public Safety Dec 9 (urgency, sponsor changed to OPD) - Items 3.2, 3.4: City Council Dec 16 (consent or public hearing) - Items 3.5, 3.7, 5, 6: City Council Dec 16 (non-consent) - Item 3.8: Life Enrichment Jan 13 - Item 3.9: CED Feb 10 and City Council Feb 17 (public hearing) - Item 4 approved with amendment. - Item 7 approved with urgency and sent to consent. - Councilmember Ramachandran voted no on item 3.9. - The meeting was adjourned into a special meeting briefly to handle urgency findings.