Public Meetings - Oakland, California

The Oakland Planning Commission met on November 5, 2025, to consider a major package of citywide planning code amendments aimed at streamlining conditional use permit (CUP) requirements for commercial, civic, and low-impact industrial activities. The meeting began with the selection of a chair pro tem due to the absence of the vice chair, followed by a director's report, commission matters, and a public hearing on the proposed amendments. The commission voted unanimously to recommend the ordinance to the City Council. Consent Calendar - No consent calendar items were presented. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke during the public hearing. Discussion Items - Selection of Chair Pro Tem: Commissioner Josie Aaron's nominated herself and was unanimously elected as chair pro tem for the meeting. - Director's Report: Deputy Director Ed Manassey acknowledged the commission's concerns about alcohol license buffering regulations near schools and committed to researching flexibility, but noted that revisiting alcohol regulations is not feasible in the near term due to workload from the General Plan update and other priorities. - Commission Matters: Strategic Planning Manager Laura Kaminski reported that the Housing Department cannot currently differentiate vacancy rates by affordability level due to software limitations. She also noted ongoing research into how other cities report non-deed-restricted units. Commissioner Aaron's requested data on rents by affordability level for deed-restricted units, which staff agreed to follow up on offline. - Public Hearing – Citywide Planning Code Amendments (CUP Streamlining): Planner Timothy Green presented the proposal, which reduces the number of activities requiring a CUP, raises square footage thresholds by 20–50%, and introduces performance standards (e.g., operational noise plans for group assembly uses). Key changes include permitting artisan production, arcades, and medical services by right in many zones, streamlining park improvements (e.g., benches, restrooms, concessions), and adding design review provisions for noise plans. Staff noted that the amendments were refined based on the Zoning Update Committee's October 22 meeting, including retaining transient habitation commercial as a major CUP. Commissioners expressed strong support, highlighting benefits for small businesses, activation of commercial corridors, and park amenities. Commissioner Randolph raised concerns about equitable outreach to underserved communities and requested periodic data collection to track impacts. Staff committed to working with the Public Information Office on outreach and exploring dashboards. Key Outcomes - Motion to Accept Minor Modifications: Unanimously approved (4-0) to accept staff's late modifications to the staff report. - Motion to Recommend Ordinance to City Council: Commissioner Randolph moved, seconded by Commissioner Rob, to recommend that the City Council adopt the ordinance with the revision to Section 17.136.30 (small project design review) adding provisions for community education, civic activities, and group assembly commercial activities as presented. The motion passed unanimously (4-0). - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the October 15, 2025 meeting were approved unanimously. - Next Steps: The item will be heard by the Community and Economic Development Committee on November 18, 2025, and by the full City Council in December 2025. Implementation is planned for mid-February 2026.

The Oakland City Council held a special concurrent meeting on November 4, 2025, at 9:00 AM. The agenda included a consent calendar with 28 items, a public hearing on the open space element extension, a proposed overhaul of council rules of procedure, a response to the Alameda County Civil Grand Jury report, and presentations from Caltrans on the Vision 980 and I-580 truck access studies. Key outcomes included approval of most consent items, adoption of the open space extension and grand jury response, and the failure of the proposed rules amendments after multiple substitute motions. Item 8 (27th Street Complete Streets contract) was pulled and rescheduled to December 2. Consent Calendar - The consent calendar included resolutions on local emergencies (AIDS, medical cannabis, homelessness), BID annual reports, airport warehouse lease, support for AB 1243 (Polluters Pay Climate Superfund Act), OPD DNA backlog program, technology contracts, corridor safety ambassador grants, domestic violence awareness month, OPD fire range agreement, privacy commission appointments, asphalt paving materials contract, fire department side letter agreements, equal access to services report, 42nd/High Street I-880 access improvements, right-of-way repair fund, Lakeshore cul-de-sac parking restriction, San Antonio BART feasibility study, Home Key resolutions, Bonterra Tech contract, Urban Institute grant evaluation, conflicts of interest code amendments, community champions grant, OPD rental car contract, and two settlement/claim items. - Vote: Passed 7-0-1 (Council President Jenkins excused). Councilmember Houston voted no on items 5.14 and 5.28; Councilmember Fife voted no on 5.14. Public Comments & Testimony - Multiple speakers supported the Make Polluters Pay resolution (item 5.7), including Barbara Ryan (representing a grandmothers’ coalition), Zoe Johnick (350 Bay Area Action), Rod Fujita (Indivisible East Bay), Quinn Ed, and Diana Curiel. They urged the council to back state legislation holding fossil fuel companies accountable for climate costs. - Several speakers opposed the Saba Groceries Initiative claim (5.28), citing a July 2024 city auditor report documenting fraud, unauthorized payments, and misuse of funds. They requested the item be pulled from consent. - On consent generally, public commenters criticized the lack of committee review for 12 items moved via Rule 24, the early meeting time, and the burden of special meetings. - On the rules of procedure (Item 9), speakers expressed concern about reduced public participation, the 24-hour e-comment deadline, and the need for consistency. - On the grand jury response (Item 10), representatives from the Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission requested the Measure Q portion be heard at a future public works committee meeting for fuller discussion. - On the Caltrans reports (Item 3.1), one speaker questioned the effectiveness of racial equity assessments and the link to gentrification in West Oakland. Discussion Items - Item 6.1 – Open Space Element Extension: The council held a public hearing and adopted a resolution requesting a two-year extension from the state to update the Open Space Conservation and Recreation (OSCAR) element of the General Plan, as required by SB 1425. Staff confirmed no additional funding was needed. The motion passed 7-0-1. - Item 9 – Council Rules of Procedure Amendments: Councilmember Ramachandran presented proposed changes to streamline meetings, including moving non-consent items earlier, creating a vice-chair option for committees, and adjusting the consent calendar pull procedure. After extensive debate and multiple substitute motions (to change meeting start time to 4:00 PM, 4:15 PM, etc.), all attempts to pass the amendments failed. The final vote on a motion to adopt the original proposal (with only the removal of the majority requirement for pulling consent items) resulted in a tie, and the mayor did not break the tie before the item was set aside. No resolution was adopted; existing rules remain in effect. - Item 10 – Grand Jury Response: The council heard a staff presentation on the city’s proposed responses to the 2024-25 Alameda County Civil Grand Jury report regarding potholes, Measure Q funds, parking tickets on stolen vehicles, wildfire preparedness, and other issues. Councilmembers asked about hiring for public works, the definition of “extreme fiscal necessity” for Measure Q, and audit plans. The resolution authorizing the Council President to submit the responses passed 6-0-1. - Item 3.1 – Caltrans Studies (Vision 980 & I-580 Truck Access): Originally scheduled as a special order but delayed, the council received an informational presentation from Caltrans on two studies: Vision 980 (reconnecting West Oakland) and I-580 Truck Access Study (assessing removal of truck weight restrictions). Caltrans outlined timelines, community engagement plans, and equity assessments. The council accepted the report by a 5-0-2 vote. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar: Approved (7-0-1), with no votes on items 5.14 and 5.28 from Councilmember Houston and 5.14 from Councilmember Fife. - Open Space Extension: Adopted (7-0-1). - 27th Street Complete Streets Contract (Item 8): Withdrawn from the agenda and rescheduled to the December 2 city council meeting on consent. - Council Rules of Procedure (Item 9): Not adopted. All motions and substitute motions failed; the council will continue with current rules. - Grand Jury Response (Item 10): Adopted (6-0-1). - Caltrans Reports (Item 3.1): Received and filed.

The Rules and Legislation Committee met on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 10:31 AM to review and schedule numerous agenda items for upcoming City Council and committee meetings. The committee processed referrals from multiple standing committees, adopted amendments to the conflicts of interest code and council rules of procedure, and made key scheduling decisions, including sending the Flock safety contract and OPD emergency response audit to the Public Safety Committee for further debate. Consent Calendar - Item 2.1 (Playground Structures): Authorized a cooperative purchasing agreement with GameTime for up to $2 million (including $350,000 matching funds) for San Antonio Park and other city parks. Referred to the November 4, 2025 Special City Council meeting (9 AM) on consent. - Item 3.2 (Enterprise Rent-A-Car Contract): Amended resolution 90768 to correct the vendor name. Referred to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.4 (Settlement): Authorized settlement of Saba Grocers Initiative case for $500,000. Referred to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.13 (Equal Access Report): Annual compliance report received and forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.15 (42nd & High Street Access): Resolution of local support for I-880 access improvements forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.17 (Right-of-Way Repair): Resolution to establish right-of-way repair forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.18 (Lakeshore Cold de Sac Parking): Resolution amended to add whereas clauses and clarify no citations until signage installed. Forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.19 (San Antonio BART Station Feasibility Study): Staff recommendation approved and forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.23 (HCD Grant Legislation): Multiple pieces of legislation regarding 2025 California HCD forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.28 (Bonterra Tech Contract Amendment): Requested to go to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 3.29 (Urban Institute Grant Evaluation): Requested to go to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 5 (Conflicts of Interest Code): Ordinance adopted to update positions and disclosure categories. Forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. - Item 6 (Council Rules of Procedure): Resolution to amend council rules (non-substantive technical edits, non-consent items heard earlier, additional presiding officer). Previously heard; forwarded to November 4 Special Council on non-consent. Public Comments & Testimony - Mark Barakal (Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission Chair): Expressed concern over the rushed process for the city’s response to the 2024-2025 Alameda County Civil Grand Jury Report on Measure Q. Noted lack of transparency and that the response was due October 14 but not shared until the day before the council meeting. Thanked the committee for moving the item to non-consent. - Brooke Levin (Measure Q Co-Chair): Echoed disappointment with the delayed response, noting that the public will have little time to review the city’s reply before the November 4 meeting. Urged careful review of all grand jury findings. - Blair Beekman (Public Comment on Open Forum and Item 4): Commended the committee for not sending the Flock safety contract directly to council and for allowing committee discussion. Expressed concerns about Flock’s transparency and urged consideration of alternatives. Also advised that the city’s process for using ALPRs in illegal dumping should be open and accountable. Discussion Items - Item 3.1 (Grand Jury Response): Originally on consent, Councilmember Ramachandran requested removal to non-consent for fuller discussion. Committee agreed unanimously. - Item 3.5 (Vacant Property Tax): Staff announced a title change to the ordinance, adding exemptions for ownership changes, requiring hearing officer findings of fact, and establishing a 12-month petition window. - Items 3.26 & 3.27 (Life Enrichment): Staff requested both items go to the November 18 Life Enrichment Committee instead of directly to council; committee agreed. - Item 3.30 (Flock Safety Contract): Dr. Tracy Jones (OPD) cited urgency due to staffing challenges and reliance on an MOU. Councilmember Ramachandran argued the public interest warranted committee review. Committee voted to send the item to the November 18 Public Safety Committee rather than directly to council. - Item 3.31 (OPD Emergency Response Audit): City Auditor staff requested the item be heard separately from other complex issues. Councilmember Ramachandran proposed sending it to the November 18 Public Safety Committee, with the option for a non-consent council hearing afterward. The committee agreed. - California Civil Grand Jury Report Discussion: The committee removed item 3.1 from consent to allow public deliberation on the city's response. - Council Rules of Procedure (Item 6): No additional questions; previously presented. Forwarded to November 4 council on non-consent. Key Outcomes - Item 3.1: Moved to non-consent for the November 4 Special Council meeting. (Unanimous) - Item 3.30: Scheduled to November 18 Public Safety Committee. (Unanimous) - Item 3.31: Scheduled to November 18 Public Safety Committee. (Unanimous) - Items 3.26 & 3.27: Scheduled to November 18 Life Enrichment Committee. (Unanimous) - Item 4 (Pending List): Approved as amended: November 4 11 AM meeting canceled; EAP item moved to December 2 evening special meeting; cannabis equity informational report rescheduled to December 9 CED committee. (Unanimous) - Item 5 (Conflicts Code): Forwarded to November 4 Special Council on consent. (Unanimous) - Item 6 (Council Rules): Forwarded to November 4 Special Council on non-consent. (Unanimous) - All consent items were approved and scheduled as recommended by staff, with the exception of items moved to committee as noted above. All votes were 3-0-1 (Councilmember Fife excused).

This regular meeting of the Oakland Public Works and Transportation Committee convened at 11:30 AM on October 28, 2025, with a quorum present. Councilmember Houston participated remotely due to a contagious illness. The committee reviewed and voted on eight agenda items, including routine approvals, infrastructure projects, sidewalk repair funding, a parking restriction amendment, and a resolution supporting a new BART station feasibility study. An informational report on illegal dumping featured a volunteer cleanup effort, which received a formal commendation. Consent Calendar - Item 1 – Approval of Draft Minutes (October 14, 2025): Approved unanimously (4–0). - Item 2 – Determination of Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items: Approved unanimously (4–0). Public Comments & Testimony - Illegal Dumping Report (Item 8): Kevin Daly praised the volunteer’s efforts and noted challenges of repeated dumping. Blair Beekman raised concerns about transparency in surveillance technology used for enforcement. Councilmember Houston commended the volunteer and mentioned a regional convening on illegal dumping the next day. - 42nd & High Street Project (Item 3): Kevin Daly supported the project but urged adding protected bike lanes and sidewalks on 42nd Avenue. Asada Olawala criticized the project’s timeline, requested clarity on the city of Alameda’s financial contribution, and noted inconsistencies on the city website. - 27th Street Complete Streets (Item 4): George Spees (Traffic Violence Rapid Response) shared the story of Steve Bloom, killed at the intersection, arguing the project would save lives. Kevin Daly (Transport Oakland) expressed strong support. Asada Olawala opposed the bike lane focus, arguing that priorities should address homelessness and congestion; she questioned enforcement of one-lane streets. - Right-of-Way Repair Fund (Item 5): Kevin Daly supported the program, emphasizing the need for accessible sidewalks. Asada Olawala criticized the city’s use of asphalt to repair sidewalks at McClymonds High School and questioned liability for lawsuits. - Lakeshore Parking Restriction (Item 6): Marilyn Waller, a cul-de-sac resident, supported the extension, noting multiple shootings (including one fatality) and improved safety. Isaac Coast Reed (Parks and Recreation Advisory Commissioner) commended the effort as a necessary first step. Asada Olawala questioned enforcement logistics. - San Antonio BART Station (Item 7): Several speakers supported: Victor Flores (BART District 7 Director) highlighted the alignment with BART’s new station policy and potential for affordable housing; Ben Lupinetti, Young Che Lee, George Spees, and Kevin Daly each testified to the community’s need for transit access, reduced car reliance, and economic revitalization. Asada Olawala questioned BART’s financial deficit and prior feasibility studies. - Open Forum: Kevin Daly raised double parking issues in Chinatown and concerns about a school’s temporary use of property earmarked for housing. Blair Beekman urged more transparent tech accountability processes and expressed concern about the Police Commission review. Discussion Items - Informational Report on Illegal Dumping (Item 8): Andy Wong, a Livermore resident, presented his volunteer cleanup efforts since 2021, including before-and-after photos, data analysis of 311 requests, and a cost comparison showing Oakland residents pay significantly more for trash pickup than nearby cities (e.g., $62/week for 32 gallons in Oakland vs. $26 in Emeryville). He proposed adding QR codes with disposal alternatives on anti-dumping signs. The committee publicly commended Wong with a formal recognition. - 42nd & High Street I-80 Access Improvement (Item 3): Staff presented a $14.6 million project to extend 42nd Avenue, improve traffic signals, and add pedestrian/bicycle safety features. The city is seeking $2.256 million from MTC, with a required local match of $12.3 million (already $10 million secured from ACTC; remaining $2.3 million from city funds). Councilmember Gaio noted the project has been pursued for 10 years and involves cooperation with Home Depot. - 27th Street Complete Streets Project (Item 4): Staff described safety improvements including protected intersections and bike lanes. The lowest bidder, Redgwick Construction (based in Oakland), submitted $10.4 million. Councilmember Houston questioned whether Redgwick’s main office is in Hayward and expressed concern over lack of mentoring for a local very small business (Cooper Construction) vs. second-bidder McGuire & Hester (a local company mentoring Cooper). The vote passed 3–1, with Houston voting no. - Right-of-Way Repair Fund 2425 (Item 5): Staff explained the new revolving fund for private sidewalk repairs, required under an ADA consent decree to triple program size. Councilmember Houston requested better notification for seniors in District 7. - Lakeshore Avenue Cul-de-Sac Parking Restriction (Item 6): Councilmember Wong proposed extending the no-parking restriction from 2–6 a.m. to 10 p.m.–6 a.m. due to recent shootings. City attorney amendments were adopted to exempt the action from CEQA and to delay enforcement until signage is installed. Staff confirmed OPD requested the signage for enforcement. - San Antonio BART Station Feasibility Study (Item 7): Councilmember Wong presented a resolution supporting a feasibility study for an infill BART station between Lake Merritt and Fruitvale stations, noting the area’s low average income ($38,000), high percentage of people of color (80%), and lack of car access (20–30%). The study would be conducted by BART at no cost to the city, with potential for state grants. Councilmember Houston requested a similar study for the Coliseum area. Key Outcomes - Item 1 (Minutes): Approved 4–0. - Item 2 (Schedule): Approved 4–0. - Item 3 (42nd & High Street): Approved 4–0 and forwarded to the November 4 Special City Council consent agenda. - Item 4 (27th Street Complete Streets): Approved 3–1 (Councilmember Houston dissenting) and forwarded to the November 4 City Council non-consent agenda. - Item 5 (Right-of-Way Repair Fund): Approved 4–0 and forwarded to the November 4 consent agenda. - Item 6 (Lakeshore Parking Restriction): Approved 4–0 (with amendments) and forwarded to the November 4 consent agenda. - Item 7 (San Antonio BART Station): Approved 4–0 and forwarded to the November 4 consent agenda. - Item 8 (Illegal Dumping Report): Received and filed by the committee (4–0); a formal commendation was presented to Andy Wong.

The meeting convened at 9:34 a.m. with Chair Ramachandran presiding and four members present. The committee addressed seven agenda items, including an update on options to raise $40 million in ongoing revenue, a whistleblower investigation into overtime calculation practices, a fire staff premium pay side letter, the annual language access compliance report, and the Police and Fire Retirement System (PFERS) investment portfolio update. Public comment was heard on several items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Draft Minutes (July 8 and September 30, 2025): Motion by Councilmember Brown, seconded by Councilmember Wong. Passed unanimously (4-0). - Termination of Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items: Motion by Councilmember Unger, seconded by Councilmember Brown. Passed unanimously (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 (Revenue Options): Kevin Dally (co-chair of Bicyclist and Pedestrian Advisory Commission) emphasized that parking policy must prioritize safety and that better-funded enforcement could reduce dangerous parking and increase revenue. A second speaker criticized the proposed parcel tax, noting steep property value declines (e.g., 30% drop in zip code 94612 since early 2020) and high homeowner burdens (property tax rates five times the national average, average homeowner insurance $1,600 annually). The speaker urged the council to consider these impacts before placing a tax on the ballot. - Item 4 (Overtime Audit): A speaker accused the city of failing to recover $1.7 million in overpaid overtime to 526 employees and noted that a consultant hired in May 2025 had not yet fixed the system. The speaker also referenced a May 2025 IFPTE Local 21 finding that the city had not filled 38 sworn officer positions, a move that could reduce overtime costs by $13 million. - Item 5 (Fire Side Letter): A speaker criticized the city for originally drafting MOU language that did not comply with CalPERS reporting requirements, calling it a “screw up” that required a fix. The speaker contrasted this with the council’s previous treatment of Omar Farmer. - Item 6 (Language Access): A speaker questioned the finance committee’s failure to ask about the total cost of the equal access program, including interpretation services, translations, staff training, and premium pay for bilingual employees. The speaker noted that while the ordinance focuses on Spanish and Chinese, other language groups may be overlooked. - Item 7 (PFERS Portfolio): No public comments were made beyond the speaker’s opening statement. - Open Forum: A speaker referenced a grand jury report warning against selling bonds, arguing the city was financially unsolvent and that bond sales put the city at risk. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Revenue Options to Raise $40 Million: Budget Administrator Brad Johnson presented a report analyzing options for a new parcel tax to generate $40 million annually. He noted that the city’s PFERS (retirement) property tax override is phasing out, leaving most homeowners with net savings. For a $1 million home, the PFERS roll-off is about $1,500. Under a $40 million parcel tax, 61–63% of homes would see a net reduction, with low-income senior exemptions. Councilmember Unger asked about a progressive parcel tax based on property size; Johnson warned of legal risks and potential regressive effects. Councilmember Wong inquired about a utility consumption tax (UCT); Johnson noted it could be a general tax on the November 2026 ballot but cautioned against putting two measures on the same ballot. The item was received and filed unanimously (4-0). - Item 4 – Overtime Calculation Audit: The administration reported that the city has used a more generous overtime formula than FLSA minimum for 17 years, establishing binding past practice. Any change would require collective bargaining. Chair Ramachandran expressed interest in memorializing the current practice. Director of HR Mary Howe suggested including it in CBAs or a process memo. Councilmember Unger requested a department-wide analysis of overtime calculations. The committee voted unanimously (4-0) to continue the item to the January 27, 2026 meeting for a written update. - Item 5 – Fire Staff Premium Pay Side Letter: Crystal Remy Adams (Principal Employee Relations Analyst) presented a side letter with IAFF Local 55 to clarify eligibility criteria for the “fire staff premium” to comply with CalPERS reporting requirements. The change is effective retroactively to November 1, 2020, and has no additional cost. Chair Ramachandran noted that this is a statewide adjustment due to new CalPERS standards. Motion to approve and forward to the November 4, 2025 City Council consent agenda passed unanimously (4-0). - Item 6 – Language Access Compliance Report: Program Analyst May Tam presented the annual report for FY 2024–25. Key data: 42% of Oakland residents speak a non-English language at home (most common: Spanish, Chinese); 24% of public-facing employees are bilingual; 412 documents translated; 308 hours of live interpretation provided; 795 survey responses covering over 45 languages. Chair Ramachandran and Councilmember Wong discussed accountability mechanisms and noted that the fire department relies on interpretation lines for medical emergencies. The item was received and forwarded to the November 4 City Council consent agenda unanimously (4-0). - Item 7 – PFERS Investment Portfolio: Investment Manager Taylor Jenkins reported that as of June 30, 2025, PFERS had a portfolio of approximately $480 million and was 90% funded. Investment Consultant Davis Sandwic noted a 10.2% net return for the fiscal year, with the portfolio transitioning to lower-risk bonds (now 61% fixed income). The city’s contribution to PFERS decreased by $10 million this year due to strong performance. The item was received and filed unanimously (4-0). Key Outcomes - Item 3: Received and filed (4-0). - Item 4: Continued to January 27, 2026, with a request for a written update on memorializing the overtime policy and a department-wide overtime analysis (4-0). - Item 5: Approved and forwarded to the November 4, 2025 City Council consent agenda (4-0). - Item 6: Received and forwarded to the November 4, 2025 City Council consent agenda (4-0). - Item 7: Received and filed (4-0). - Items 8 and 9: Withdrawn from the agenda and rescheduled to later dates by the Rules and Legislation Committee (October 23, 2025).

On October 28, 2025, several Oakland city bodies met, including the Privacy Advisory Commission, Life Enrichment Committee, and Public Works and Transportation Committee. The transcript includes proceedings from multiple dates, but the summary is compiled for this date. Consent Calendar - Port of Oakland audit reports for fiscal year 2024: single audit, passenger facility charge audit, customer facility charge audit, and deferred compensation plan audit – all clean with no findings. - Approval of draft minutes from previous committee meetings (June 24, July 8, July 22, September 30, 2025) for Public Works and Life Enrichment committees. Public Comments & Testimony - During the Privacy Advisory Commission, multiple speakers expressed concerns about flock cameras and data sharing with ICE, citing sanctuary city violations and risks to immigrant communities. Others, including business representatives, supported cameras for crime reduction and public safety. - During the Life Enrichment Committee, a speaker criticized Head Start staffing shortages, low morale, and lack of leadership, and urged better communication and equity. - During the Public Works Committee, a veteran complained about parking tickets in his neighborhood and requested a report on parking permit decisions. Discussion Items - Privacy Advisory Commission: Reviewed the annual report on the Crime Tracer forensic system, which allows OPD to search public records across agencies. OPD stated that ICE does not have access and that data sharing is reciprocal. Commissioners questioned audit capabilities and risks of federal access. The commission then considered the use policy for community safety cameras (Flock system). After extensive debate about vendor Flock's history of data sharing with ICE and lack of adequate guardrails, the commission voted to recommend rejection of the use policy. - Life Enrichment Committee: Considered two items: (1) A resolution to accept and appropriate $13,797,057 in federal Head Start and Early Head Start grants for FY2025-26, with a local match of $6.7 million from the General Purpose Fund. Staff reported 622 funded slots but only 408 currently enrolled due to staffing vacancies. (2) A resolution to waive competitive bidding and approve a second amendment to a contract with Child Care Careers LLC for substitute teacher staffing, increasing the amount by $500,000 to a total of $1,250,000. Staff noted the vendor is the only responsive bidder and is critical to keeping classrooms open. The committee approved both items. - Public Works Committee: Considered a resolution to award a contract to WW Williams Company LLC for Allison transmission parts and repairs, at $750,000 per year for five years (total $3.75 million). Staff explained that the city has about 100 vehicles with these transmissions and that internal capacity is limited due to staffing shortages. Only one bidder responded. Councilmembers expressed frustration about the lack of local business participation and the need for workforce development, but acknowledged the urgency of repairing fleet vehicles. The committee approved the contract. Key Outcomes - Privacy Advisory Commission voted 3-2 (with one abstention) to recommend rejection of the flock camera use policy to the City Council, citing inadequate privacy guardrails and vendor concerns. The motion passed with Commissioners Wang, Hoffer, Tomlinson, and Everhart in favor; Vice Chair Gage and Chair Levitt opposed; Commissioner Katz abstained. - Life Enrichment Committee voted 4-0 to forward the Head Start grant acceptance and the substitute teacher contract amendment to the October 21 City Council agenda on consent. - Public Works Committee voted 4-0 to approve the transmission repair contract and forward it to the City Council.

The Community and Economic Development Committee met on October 28, 2025, at 1:31 PM. Chair Brown presided with Councilmembers Ramachandran and Unger present; Councilmember Fife was excused. The committee considered seven agenda items, including a study session on the general plan update, resolutions for affordable housing funding, and a transient occupancy tax sharing agreement to support the Oakland Roots and Soul soccer club during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Public comment was heard on several items. Consent Calendar - Approval of Draft Minutes (October 14, 2025): Approved unanimously (3 ayes, 1 excused). - Termination Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items: Approved unanimously (3 ayes, 1 excused). - Resolution Requesting Two-Year Extension for OSCAR Element Update: Approved unanimously (4 ayes, after Councilmember Fife arrived) and forwarded to the November 4, 2025 special city council consent agenda at 9 AM. - Home Key Plus Resolutions (Four Items): Approved unanimously (3 ayes, 1 excused) and forwarded to the November 4, 2025 special city council consent agenda at 9 AM. The resolutions amend previous authorizations for the Mark Twain Homes (up to $35 million), 34th & San Pablo (up to $35 million), Maya Affordable Housing (up to $8.5 million), and add a new project at 3135 San Pablo (up to $13 million). Public Comments & Testimony - Ralph Cantz (on item 2) expressed frustration about house flippers in Oakland, alleging they cost the city millions in lost permit fees and perform shoddy work without inspections. He urged the committee to schedule enforcement discussions. - Ralph Cantz (on item 3) criticized the General Plan Advisory Committee for lacking institutional memory and geographic diversity, stating that a member who moved to Oakland in November 2024 was selected over long-time residents. - Sharifa Taylor (CBE, on item 4) submitted a comment letter urging that the general plan redress environmental and racial injustices, and flagged failure to consider environmental impacts of RD centers in EJ communities. - John Dari (Alameda County Building Trades, on item 4) noted the plan overlooks 20,000–25,000 construction trade jobs generated by the plan and urged policies for local hiring and workforce preparation. - EJ Sire (Sheet Metal Workers Local 104/Rising Sun, on item 4) highlighted the Women Build the Bay cohort (27 women, 80% women of color, 10 from Oakland) and emphasized the need for strong local hire goals in the general plan. - David Ralston (resident and BPAC chair, on item 4) commended staff but argued the base map excludes key assets (e.g., ECAP, EONI) and that mapping reflects what the city values. - Isaac Cosreed (District 2 resident and PRAC member, on item 4) stressed focusing on jobs, playing to Oakland’s strengths as a port city, and not spreading resources too thinly. - Ralph Cantz (on item 4) criticized the process for ignoring endangered species protection, citing past failures at Oak Knoll and Oakland Zoo. - Ms. Asada (on item 5) questioned the geographic balance of Home Key projects and whether all categories of need (families, veterans, etc.) are being considered. - Ms. Asada (on item 6, withdrawn) questioned the forgiveness of $3 million in principal and $661,042 in interest for East Bay Highland Farms, arguing the city should not forgive loans when properties are poorly maintained. - Ms. Asada (on item 7) opposed the TOT sharing agreement, arguing it diverts funds from city services and noted a video discouraging visits to Oakland due to crime. - Josephine Guzman (Oakland Metro Chamber, on item 7) expressed strong support for the TOT agreement, calling it a strategic investment in Oakland’s economy and global visibility. Discussion Items - General Plan Update – Oakland for All Options Report (Item 4): Staff (Lakshmi Rajkopalan, Bibi Legado, and youth fellows) presented three broad options (A, B, C) for growth and stabilization through 2045. All options share a baseline of adding housing and jobs near transit and downtown, with differences in density, location of new development, and transportation/park improvements. Option A spreads development across 18 mixed-use centers; Option B concentrates along major transit corridors; Option C creates a midtown waterfront district with a potential San Antonio BART station. Staff emphasized the options are flexible and can be mixed. Community engagement included over 65 events, a youth fellows program, and a survey. Councilmembers Unger and Ramachandran raised questions about implementation capacity, local hire policies, and job types. Staff noted that the draft land use framework will be published in early 2026, with council feedback in April 2026. The item was received and filed unanimously. - Transient Occupancy Tax Sharing Agreement for Oakland Roots and Soul (Item 7): Director Ashley Canett presented a proposal to share up to $300,000 of incremental TOT (over June 2025 baseline) with Oakland Roots and Soul if they are selected as a team base camp for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. FIFA estimates host communities could see 30,000 hotel room nights, 60,000–80,000 visitors, and $25–33 million in expenditures. The Roots and Soul would incur $700,000 in additional costs for security, staffing, etc. The city would only share TOT if revenues exceed baseline; if not, no payment. Oakland Alameda has already approved a similar measure. Councilmembers expressed excitement and support, with Councilmember Unger requesting an informational report on outcomes by October 13, 2026, to CED. The item was approved as amended and forwarded to the December 2, 2025 city council consent agenda as a public hearing. Key Outcomes - Approvals: All consent calendar items passed unanimously (except item 3 passed 4-0 after Councilmember Fife arrived). - Forwarded to City Council: - OSCAR extension resolution (to Nov 4, 2025 special consent). - Four Home Key Plus resolutions (to Nov 4, 2025 special consent). - TOT sharing agreement (to Dec 2, 2025 regular meeting consent, with amendment for informational report by Oct 13, 2026 to CED). - Withdrawn: Item 6 (loan forgiveness for Highland Farms and East Lake) was withdrawn by the city administrator’s office to be rescheduled at the Rules Committee on Thursday. - Study Session: Received and filed without further action.

The Rules and Legislation Committee convened to schedule and discuss legislative items, with extensive debate on a proposed encampment abatement policy. The meeting also covered affordable housing funding, domestic violence awareness, police training agreements, and administrative contracts, reflecting both procedural matters and substantive public concerns. Consent Calendar - Resolution proclaiming October 2025 Domestic Violence Awareness Month was placed on the consent calendar for the November 4th City Council agenda, with Councilmembers Jenkins, Ramachandran, and Brown added as co-sponsors. - Items 3.4 (OPD firearms range agreement), 3.5 (Privacy Advisory Commission appointment), 3.6 (material contracts), and others were scheduled for consent on the November 4th City Council agenda. Public Comments & Testimony - Public speakers uniformly expressed opposition to the proposed encampment abatement policy (Item 3.1). Armando criticized the lack of transparency and argued that the policy would undermine Measure W implementation and harm unhoused individuals. John Genasco urged slowing down the process to allow more community input. Bridget Nicoletti, an attorney, opposed scheduling the item for October 27th, citing inadequate time for review and transparency issues. - Other speakers, such as Nita B. and Satya Basker, emphasized the structural roots of homelessness and condemned criminalization. Juan Canham linked the policy to broader political issues, while Eva Argetty highlighted dire impacts on vulnerable populations. Alex Pinagis and others objected to last-minute scheduling that limited public engagement. Discussion Items - Councilmembers deliberated on scheduling Item 3.1. Councilmember Ramachandran and Brown advocated for a date accommodating all council members and sufficient time to review amendments, expressing concerns about rushing the policy. Councilmember Houston, via phone, insisted on urgency and proposed a special meeting on October 27th, but the committee favored more deliberation. - The committee also discussed withdrawing Item 8, the audit recommendation follow-up report, from the Finance and Management Committee agenda and rescheduling it directly to the City Council. Key Outcomes - Item 3.1 was rescheduled to a special City Council meeting on November 4, 2025, at 9:30 a.m., rather than the originally proposed October 27th date, to allow for broader council participation and public input. - Item 3.3 (Domestic Violence Awareness Month) was added to the consent calendar for November 4th with multiple co-sponsors. - Item 8 was withdrawn from the October 28th Finance and Management Committee agenda and rescheduled to the December 2nd City Council meeting as a non-consent item.

The Zoning Update Committee met on October 22, 2025, to review proposed amendments to the Oakland Planning Code aimed at streamlining conditional use permit (CUP) requirements. The meeting included a staff presentation, commissioner questions, and public testimony, focusing on reducing regulatory barriers for small businesses, park improvements, and commercial district activation. Public Comments & Testimony - Maven Carter Griffin, co-founder of the Wood Street People's Collective, expressed support for regulated curbside communities for unhoused individuals, advocating for permit systems and cleanliness standards to foster hope and organization. - Sonia Carabel, representing Unite Here Local 2, stated opposition to removing the major conditional use permit requirement for hotels, arguing that this change would undermine community voice in hotel development decisions. - Maven Carter Griffin provided additional comments, emphasizing the need for creative, portable housing solutions and business opportunities for unhoused creatives. Discussion Items - Staff planner Timothy Green presented the proposed planning code amendments, outlining key changes: increasing CUP square footage thresholds (e.g., from 7,500 to 10,000 square feet in CN zones), establishing performance standards for group assembly uses, permitting artisan production and mechanical games in more zones, and updating regulations for medical services, animal care, and parks. - Commissioners engaged in Q&A, with Commissioner Sandoval asking about CUP processing times (reported as 8-12 months for minor CUPs), impacts on small businesses, lessons from the Broadway Valdez pilot, and concerns about commercial activities in parks. Staff clarified that fee structures are cost-based and that changes aim to fill vacant spaces and activate districts. - Deputy Director Ed Manasseh and Deputy City Attorney Michael Branson provided context on fee legality and parking regulation updates. - Staff acknowledged public concerns about hotel permits and committed to working with Unite Here to refine Chapter 17.134 before the full Planning Commission hearing. Key Outcomes - The committee passed a motion recommending that the Planning Commission conduct a public hearing on the ordinance, with refinement to Chapter 17.134 based on comments, particularly regarding hotel conditional use permits. - The project timeline includes Planning Commission review on November 5, CED committee hearing on November 18, and City Council consideration in December, with implementation anticipated in mid-February 2026.