Public Meetings - Oakland, California

The Rules & Legislation Committee met on July 24, 2025, at 10:31 AM to approve minutes, schedule items, and review pending lists. The meeting briefly adjourned into a special City Council session due to the presence of Councilmember Houston, allowing discussion on the urgent encampment policy item. Key decisions included scheduling a September 10, 2025 special public safety committee meeting for the encampment policy and forwarding several items to the September 16, 2025 City Council agenda. Consent Calendar - Approval of the draft minutes from the July 10, 2025 meeting was accepted by a vote of 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - Asada Olabala (on the July 10 minutes): Criticized the handling of security contracts, stating that the minutes fail to reflect a month-to-month arrangement with ABC Security and that no contract is currently in place. - Asada Olabala (on all items): Urged seriousness about encampments near schools, criticized the shelter ordinance for not addressing shelter destruction (e.g., West Oakland and Lake Merit tiny homes), questioned the Unity Council's identification (calling it "non-existent" and suggesting replacement with "Spanish speaking unity council"), criticized the lack of enforcement of existing policies, and opposed the play "Co-Founders: The Musical" as a diversion from real issues. - Isaac Cos Reed (Open Forum): Thanked city officials for their work, highlighted the "Unite for good" Rotary International motto, invited officials to club meetings, praised intergovernmental advocacy on Measure W, and urged reconsideration of the citywide security contract to favor a local company. - Asada Olabala (Open Forum): Criticized the homelessness prevention focus, arguing it overlooks those already homeless—particularly African Americans, who face 89% unemployment—and noted risk factors such as drug addiction, domestic violence, mental illness, and foreclosure. Discussion Items - 3.0: 2025 Encampment Abatement Policy: Councilmember Houston proposed a resolution to repeal the 2020 policy and adopt a new one that defines encampment as excluding vehicles, authorizes citation and towing of inhabited vehicles (per California and Oakland Vehicle Codes), requires 7-day notice for non-urgent closures, and clarifies conditions for immediate, 24-hour, or 72-hour notices (e.g., blocking sidewalks). A title change was read into the record. Councilmember Fife initially requested it go to the Life Enrichment Committee first, but Councilmember Houston highlighted the urgency, noting that other cities (e.g., San Francisco) are pushing RVs into Oakland. A special City Council meeting was convened at 10:38 AM due to Houston's presence, and it was scheduled to the September 10, 2025 Public Safety Committee via a special meeting (subject to quorum), then to the September 16, 2025 City Council. The item was left pending with no specific date. - 3.1: FY 2025-26 Appropriations Limit: Scheduled to the September 30, 2025 Finance and Management Committee. - 3.2: Honoring 'Co-Founders: The Musical': Approved on consent for the September 16, 2025 City Council agenda. - 3.3: Shelter Crisis Ordinance: After no action at the July 22 Special Life Enrichment Committee due to lack of quorum, this item was scheduled to the September 16, 2025 City Council on consent. - 3.4: Contract for Public-System High-Risk Youth Team: Approved on consent for September 16, 2025. - 3.5: Apricot Amended Use Policy and Annual Report: Approved on consent for September 16, 2025, with an added further resolved clause making a cost-benefit determination and finding the proposal safeguards civil liberties. - 3.6: OPD Biannual Staffing Report: Received and filed. - 3.7: OPD Data Sharing Policy for ALPRs: Received and filed. - 3.8: DOT Planning for Sideshow Abatement: Received and filed. - 3.9: Prohousing Designation Renewal Application: Approved on consent for September 16, 2025. - 3.10: Exclusive Negotiation Agreement with The Unity Council: Approved on consent for September 16, 2025. - 3.11: FY 2024-25 Quarter 1 and 2 Code Enforcement Update: Received and filed. - 4: Review of Draft Agendas and Pending Lists: The committee approved amendments removing several items from the pending list (e.g., resolutions on voter initiative opposition, council rules amendment, Coliseum sale, cannabis lounges, and Black Arts Movement district support) by a 4-0 vote. Key Outcomes - 2025 Encampment Abatement Policy (Item 3.0): A title change was accepted, and the item was left pending (no date specific) with a plan to schedule a special September 10, 2025 Public Safety Committee meeting (subject to quorum) before advancing to the September 16, 2025 City Council via Rule 28. - Consent items (3.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.5, 3.9, 3.10): All forwarded to the September 16, 2025 City Council agenda on consent, with the shelter crisis ordinance (3.3) requiring no action from the earlier lack of quorum. - Pending list amendments: Several items (e.g., opposition to voter initiative, rules restatement, Coliseum sale, cannabis lounges, Education Partnership Committee, Coliseum Board appointment, Black Arts Movement district) were withdrawn with no new date. - Open Forum: One speaker raised concerns about the citywide security contract and Measure W; another criticized homelessness prevention efforts for not addressing those already homeless, citing risk factors including 89% unemployment among African Americans in Oakland.

The meeting focused on city arts funding, honoring a local musical, and renewing a shelter crisis ordinance. It opened with a major announcement about restoring a key cultural arts position. Discussions were passionate, with strong public testimony both supporting arts investments and criticizing city priorities. The committee advanced a resolution honoring the musical 'Co-Founders' but lost quorum before taking final action on the shelter crisis ordinance. Consent Calendar - There were no consent calendar items, as it was a special meeting with no minutes to approve. Public Comments & Testimony - Vanessa Wong (Chair, Cultural Affairs Commission) expressed support for reinstating the Cultural Arts Manager position and urged the committee to allow staff flexibility in allocating arts funds. - Asada Olabala voiced strong opposition to prioritizing a cultural manager, arguing the city's higher priorities were homelessness, African American unemployment, public health, and racism. He later criticized the city's support for Black artists, citing unfulfilled promises for a jazz museum and the Art Shanks Jr. plaque. - Kat Brooks (Co-founder, Anti-Police Terror Project) expressed gratitude for the reinstatement of the Cultural Arts Manager and argued for reinvesting police funds into arts and culture, particularly Black arts. - Tania Scott Smith (Outreach Pastor) spoke in favor of the shelter crisis ordinance, sharing her personal experience with homelessness and advocating for a wraparound services center. - Kev Choice (Cultural Affairs Commissioner) thanked the council for restoring the Cultural Arts Manager position and emphasized the need to integrate arts into all city departments. - Roberto D. Badoya (Former Cultural Affairs Manager) thanked the council for restoring the position, highlighting its revenue-generating potential and the importance of the cultural strategies in government program. Discussion Items - Announcement on Cultural Arts Manager: Chair Fife announced the city administrator and budget office had worked to restore the full-time Cultural Arts Manager position, funded by ongoing city funds, citing its role in generating revenue and fostering artist relationships. - Pending List Determination: The committee voted to approve the schedule of outstanding committee items. - Resolution Honoring 'Co-Founders' Musical: Councilmember Wong and Mayor Lee praised the musical for its Oakland themes, innovation, and potential economic and cultural impact. Creators Marilee and Asada (speaker) presented data showing the musical's success in San Francisco, including nearly $1M in economic impact, and expressed their goal to bring it to Oakland in 2026. Councilmember Houston emphasized supporting Oakland artists first. - Emergency Shelter Crisis Ordinance: Staff presented the need to renew the expiring ordinance to maintain shelter operations and contracting flexibility. Discussion centered on evaluating service provider performance, the need for more transitional options like safe parking, and concerns that Oakland bears a disproportionate burden of the county's homelessness crisis. Councilmember Houston moved to keep the item in committee, citing a need for more discussion, but the motion failed for lack of a second. Key Outcomes - Pending List: Approved via roll call vote (3 Ayes: Houston, Wong, Fife; 1 Absent: Guiles). - 'Co-Founders' Resolution: A motion passed (3 Ayes: Houston, Wong, Fife; 1 Absent: Guiles) to forward the resolution to the September 16, 2025, Special City Council meeting on the consent calendar. - Shelter Crisis Ordinance: The committee lost quorum (after Councilmember Houston left) before a vote could be taken. The item was not advanced, and the current ordinance is set to expire on September 19, 2025. - Cultural Arts Manager: Chair Fife announced the position would be restored using ongoing city funds.

The Oakland City Council Public Safety Committee convened at 11:02 AM and adjourned at 1:24 PM on July 22, 2025, at Oakland City Hall. All four members present (Councilmembers Brown, Fife, Houston, and Wang) voted unanimously on all items. The meeting addressed a no-cost youth violence prevention partnership, surveillance technology policy, police staffing, automated license plate reader data sharing, and sideshow abatement planning. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 2 (Schedule): A speaker criticized the city's ceasefire program, demanding quantitative data on participants, services, and outcomes, stating there is "no evidence of ceasefire working." - Item 3 (High-Risk Youth Team): A speaker questioned the root causes of youth violence (mental health, substance use, academic struggles) and asked how the Department of Violence Prevention (DVP) is addressing prevention rather than reaction, noting limited visibility of DVP case managers at local schools. - Item 4 (Apricot 360): Two speakers addressed the system. One argued that Apricot 360 should track systemic harm (e.g., targeting of victims, LGBTQ+ underreporting) and questioned why the Privacy Advisory Commission was involved. Another speaker challenged the necessity of the privacy review and asked why the city cannot use a single evaluation system across departments. - Item 5 (OPD Staffing): Two speakers spoke. One (Tania Scott Smith) called for rejecting "the Willie Lynch blueprint" in policing, demanding better recruitment of mentally stable, community-oriented officers. Another speaker requested detailed breakdowns of officers on duty vs. leave, and questioned the effectiveness of 911 response given low staffing. - Item S6 (ALPR Data Sharing): One speaker (Ms. Asado Olabata) criticized the city's sanctuary policy as incomplete, noting expired U-visas and the California Trust Act's limitations, and accused the city of performative actions rather than protecting all immigrants. - Item S7 (Sideshow Abatement): Two speakers. One played an audio clip of a 5:30 AM sideshow and read a neighbor's account of disruption, urging non-criminalizing traffic calming. Another (Reverend Scott Smith) provided historical context, noting that current events are "vandalism," not the original sideshows, and stressed the need for parental accountability. - Open Forum: Two speakers: one raised concerns about unvetted OPD units (Youth and School Services, Felony Assault, Training, SWAT) and the need for culture change; another called for annual performance reviews of all grant-funded programs. Discussion Items - Item 2: Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items – The committee unanimously accepted the schedule as presented. - Item 3: Contract for Public-System High-Risk Youth Team – DVP presented a no-cost, five-year agreement with Alameda County, Oakland Unified School District, and the National Institute for Criminal Justice Reform (NICJR) to create a weekly coordination team for youth at high risk of group violence, intimate partner violence, or commercial sexual exploitation. The team would make coordinated service referrals; DVP would receive referrals only. A similar model in San Francisco served over 40 youth. Councilmembers asked about funding (no cost), cultural competency, and overlap with the ceasefire program. The committee voted 4-0 to forward to the September 16, 2025 City Council consent calendar. - Item 4: Apricot 360 Use Policy and Annual Report – DVP reported that the cloud-based system is used by 200 staff (20 DVP, 180 grantee staff) to track service delivery and grant management. Annual cost is $125,000. Proposed amendments: update language to allow DVP grant monitors to access data, and replace data privacy training with a more concise version. The City Attorney recommended adding a further resolved clause making a cost-benefit determination and affirming civil liberties safeguards. The committee voted 4-0 to approve as amended and forward to the September 16, 2025 City Council consent calendar. - Item 5: OPD Biannual Staffing Report – As of July 22, 2025, OPD had 653 sworn officers (down from 678 authorized), with 105 totally off work (63 medical, 37 administrative, 3 military). The 195th academy started July 21 with 26 trainees. Recruitment is hindered by limited staff (1 sergeant, 2 officers, 2 professional staff). Councilmembers requested future reports include officer assignment granularity and length of leave. The committee voted 4-0 to receive and file. - Item S6: OPD Data Sharing Policy for ALPR – OPD reported that since July 2024, Flock ALPR cameras have assisted in 182 arrests, 55 firearm recoveries, and 53 stolen/carjacked vehicle recoveries. Overall violent crime is down 30% year-to-date. OPD requires all partner agencies to agree not to use data for immigration enforcement, and random audits found no improper OPD use. A recent news article alleging data sharing with ICE was addressed: an outside agency conducted a statewide search using a term related to immigration enforcement, but OPD's policy prohibits such sharing. The committee voted 4-0 to receive and file. - Item S7: DOT Sideshow Abatement Planning – DOT Director Josh Rowan presented a plan to use the $1.4 million allocated in the June 2025 budget for traffic calming interventions at about 14 intersections (estimated $50,000–$100,000 each). He emphasized that wide, fast streets enable sideshows, and advocated for long-term solutions like speed governors, road diets, and roundabouts. The department is developing a prioritized list based on risk, equity, and data from OPD and 311. Councilmembers discussed the need for quick, cost-effective treatments (e.g., plastic bollards at $25,000) and community-led traffic calming programs. The committee voted 4-0 to receive and file. Key Outcomes - Item 2: Accepted schedule of outstanding committee items (4-0). - Item 3: Approved staff recommendation to forward the high-risk youth team agreement to the September 16, 2025 City Council consent calendar (4-0). - Item 4: Approved as amended (with added further resolved clause) the Apricot 360 annual report and use policy, forwarded to September 16, 2025 City Council consent calendar (4-0). - Item 5: Received and filed the OPD biannual staffing report (4-0). - Item S6: Received and filed the OPD ALPR data sharing policy report (4-0). - Item S7: Received and filed the oral report on DOT sideshow abatement planning (4-0). - Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned in memory of Joshua Byrd, a probation officer murdered on July 17, 2025.

The Oakland City Council convened on July 22, 2025, at 3:37 p.m. for a concurrent meeting of the Oakland Redevelopment Successor Agency and City Council. Consent Calendar - Multiple resolutions and ordinances were approved, including those related to local emergencies, salary ordinances, impact fee regulations, and various city contracts and agreements. Public Comments & Testimony - Members of the public spoke in support of AB 1242, a language access bill, highlighting its importance for Oakland's diverse community. - Several speakers addressed the proposed revisions to the Animal Control Ordinance (S5.41), expressing concerns about turning away owner-surrendered animals and the need for more time to discuss the issue. - Public comments were also made in support of SB 63, a resolution related to public transit funding, emphasizing its importance for Oaklanders' transportation needs. - Speakers addressed various other items on the consent calendar, including the allocation of HHAP6 funds and the annexation of city-owned property at Joaquin Miller Park. Discussion Items - Councilmembers discussed the proposed revisions to the Animal Control Ordinance, with some expressing opposition to the provision allowing the shelter to reject owner-surrendered animals. - The city administrator and staff provided information on the budget crisis affecting the Animal Shelter and the need for the proposed ordinance changes. Key Outcomes - The consent calendar was approved with a vote of 8 ayes, with Councilmember Ramachandran voting no on item S5.41. - The council introduced and scheduled the second reading of an ordinance related to the issuance and sale of general obligation bonds for $300 million and refunding bonds for $55 million. - A resolution authorizing a contract extension with Madoxo Traffic Management Inc. for parking citation system software and related services was adopted. Other Business - The council adjourned the meeting in memory of civil rights attorney Dan Siegel.

This meeting of the Community and Economic Development Committee focused on housing initiatives and code enforcement. The committee approved a pro-housing designation application and an exclusive negotiation agreement for an affordable housing project, and received a report on code enforcement activities. Public comments centered on equity concerns, specifically regarding the inclusion of the African American community in city programs and grant opportunities. Consent Calendar - No items were presented for the consent calendar. Public Comments & Testimony - Asada Olabali criticized the Economic and Workforce Development Department for not pursuing state grants specifically targeting African American entrepreneurs and addressing high unemployment in the community. The speaker argued the department was not serving everyone equitably. - David Boatwright (District 4) expressed surprise that Oakland would qualify for a pro-housing designation given the removal of tiny house projects, emphasizing the need for better project manager vetting and oversight. - Derek Barnes (EBRHA) offered cautious support for the pro-housing designation renewal but urged the council to ensure the city has the staffing and systems to deliver on promises, achieve equitable outcomes, and learn from past application failures. - Maciel Jaquez (Centro Legal de la Raza) and Christopher Martinez (Spanish Speaking Citizens Foundation) voiced strong support for the Unity Council's affordable housing proposal, citing its deep roots and trusted stewardship in the Fruitvale community. - Asada Olabali also questioned the relationship between the Spanish Speaking Unity Council and the Unity Council, alleging misrepresentation and a lack of service to diverse communities, particularly African Americans. - Taneas Scott Smith called for stricter penalties and streamlined enforcement against non-compliant landlords to address the housing crisis and criticized the complaint-based system. - During open forum, Taneas Scott Smith raised concerns about Head Start program eligibility for undocumented children and leadership issues, and alleged selective code enforcement targeting African American street vendors. - Asada Olabali (open forum) advocated for simplifying processes to allow locally built, recycled-material tiny homes for unsheltered residents. Discussion Items - Pro-Housing Designation Renewal: Caleb Smith from HCD presented on renewing Oakland's pro-housing designation with the state. He explained the designation provides competitive advantages for state affordable housing and infrastructure funding, noting Oakland had already received $2.39 million. He highlighted Oakland's housing policies (e.g., ending single-family zoning, affordable housing overlay) as qualifying factors. - 36th & Foothill Affordable Housing Project: Kimani Rogers (EWDD) presented a proposal to enter an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) with the Unity Council to develop an 82-unit affordable family housing project. The Unity Council's proposal scored higher than a competing proposal from Five Keys. Abra Levine from the Unity Council described the project's integration of community services and its focus on larger units for families, including units for formerly homeless households. - Code Enforcement Report: Cecilia Muela (Acting Building Official) presented a biannual update on code enforcement for Q1 and Q2 of FY 2024-25. The report covered complaint volumes, inspection timelines, enforcement actions, and fees. Staff noted increases in complaints and detailed efforts to maintain compliance timelines despite staffing challenges. Key Outcomes - Item 2 (Pending List): Approved the determination of scheduled outstanding committee items. Motion passed 3-0 (Councilmember Fife excused). - Item 3 (Pro-Housing Designation): Approved a resolution authorizing the city administrator to apply for the state's pro-housing designation renewal. The item was forwarded to the September 16, 2025, City Council consent agenda. Motion passed 3-0 (Councilmember Fife excused). - Item 4 (36th & Foothill ENA): Approved a resolution authorizing an Exclusive Negotiation Agreement with the Unity Council for a 24-month term (with a 6-month extension option) to develop affordable housing. The item was forwarded to the September 16, 2025, City Council consent agenda. Motion passed 3-0 (Councilmember Fife excused). - Item 5 (Code Enforcement Report): Received and filed the informational report on code enforcement activities in committee. Motion passed 3-0 (Councilmember Fife excused). Committee Logistics - The committee confirmed a quorum with three members present (Chair Brown, Councilmember Ramachandran, Councilmember Unger) and one excused (Councilmember Fife). - Draft minutes from July 8, 2025, could not be approved due to a missing report. - The next committee meeting is scheduled for September 30, 2025.

The committee convened to review and schedule upcoming agenda items for council and committee meetings, discuss informational reports on police data sharing and sideshow abatement, and address administrative matters such as bond resolutions. The meeting also included significant public testimony on security contracting and constituent concerns, culminating in an adjournment into a special city council meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of the draft minutes from the July 3, 2025 committee meeting was moved, seconded, and passed unanimously with three ayes and one excused absence. Public Comments & Testimony - Greg Feldman (Allied Universal Vice President) urged the committee to schedule and proceed with the Public Works staff's recommended award of the citywide security contract to Allied Universal, arguing that the formal selection process should not be disregarded. He stated his company is an Oakland-based business with a large local workforce and a union partnership. - Asado Olabala criticized the council's handling of funds and services in Chinatown, alleging misuse of grants, lack of enforcement on double parking, ignored issues with gambling and prostitution, and unfair allocation of Measure U funds. He called for investigations into these matters and the removal of basketball courts at Lincoln Recreational Center. - Councilmember Houston (during open forum) expressed concern about gentrification and the disproportionate impact on African Americans in Oakland, citing an 8.9% unemployment rate for African Americans compared to 4.2% for whites and 4.5% for Latinos, and homelessness rates of 50-60% for African Americans. He also questioned police spending of Measure Z funds for a memorial trip. Discussion Items - New Scheduling: Items were placed on future committee agendas: - 3.1: An informational report on Oakland Police Department's automated license plate reader data sharing policy with ICE, requested for the July 22 Public Safety Committee. - 3.2: An informational report on the Department of Transportation's planning for using $1.4 million for sideshow abatement, also for the July 22 Public Safety Committee. - 3.3 & 3.4: Resolutions recognizing a vegetation management company and authorizing an MOU with San Leandro were scheduled for September committee meetings. - Dais Request: Three resolutions related to general obligation bond issuance (Measure DD/U) were requested for the September 16 City Council meeting on the non-consent calendar due to financial risk considerations. - Review of Draft Agendas: The Finance and Management Committee item from July 22 was rescheduled to September 30. The Life Enrichment Committee (LEC) meeting on July 22 was moved to 9:30 AM. - Unagendized Constituent Safety Issue: Councilmember Houston displayed a video and passionately described a situation where a 79-year-old senior constituent faced an abandoned vehicle, trash, and threats from a neighbor over two years. He vowed to personally remove the hazards if city services did not act promptly. Councilmember Fife acknowledged similar challenges in her district and supported taking serious action on such safety and mental health concerns. Key Outcomes - Vote on Item 3: Motion to accept the new scheduling items as amended, including the dais bond resolutions request, passed with four ayes. - Vote on Item 4: Motion to accept the review of draft agendas as amended passed with four ayes. - Adjournment: At 11:02 AM, a motion to adjourn the committee and enter a special city council meeting due to Councilmember Houston's participation passed with four ayes.

The July 16, 2025 meeting of the Oakland Planning Commission began with the election of Commissioner Josie Aaron as Chair Pro Tem due to the absence of the regular chair and vice chair. The commission addressed a continuance request for a public hearing item, received an informational report on a proposed affordable senior housing project, heard from the Planning Director, discussed committee reports and commission matters, and approved previous minutes. Discussion Items - Continuance Request for 1205 Franklin Street: The applicant's representative, John Kevin, requested a continuance for Item 2 (1205 Franklin Street) due to the project representative's personal issues and the absence of the assigned city attorney. Commissioners discussed scheduling options and voted unanimously to continue the item to a date certain of September 17, 2025. - Informational Report on SB 35 Project at 7954 MacArthur Boulevard: Planner Heather Klein introduced an informational report on a proposed 100% affordable senior housing project. Timothy Moreau, representing the project sponsor, presented details. The project, previously approved for 40 units, seeks to increase to 50 units and add a sixth story. Commissioners asked questions about unit mix (primarily one-bedroom units), funding sources, parking allocation, and exterior design. Commissioner Maurice Rob suggested incorporating a mural or varied facade materials to improve the building's appearance. Commissioners expressed general support for the project and its contribution to addressing housing needs. - Director's Report: Planning Director William Gilchrist attended and committed to providing regular updates to the commission on broader city and regional planning issues, state legislation, and interagency projects to enhance the commission's situational awareness. Commissioner Alex Randolph thanked the director and staff for their work. - Committee Reports: The Zoning Update Committee (ZUC) met on June 25th. The committee requested that staff provide additional data in the next annual progress report, including information on rents and vacancies by income level, implementation of S-13 and S-14 zones, and efforts to affirmatively further fair housing. - Commission Matters: Commissioners discussed concerns about the rate at which entitled projects proceed to construction. Commissioner Maurice Rob requested an informational report analyzing this issue and exploring potential city actions to facilitate development. Commissioner Josie Aaron requested staff investigate the feasibility of counting non-deed restricted affordable housing units toward the city's affordable housing goals, citing practices in Berkeley, Antioch, Brentwood, and Oakley. - City Attorney's Report: Deputy City Attorney Michael Branson offered the commission assistance with questions regarding state housing legislation (e.g., SB 35, SB 423) and related processes. Key Outcomes - Continuance Approved: The commission unanimously approved a motion to continue the public hearing for 1205 Franklin Street to September 17, 2025. - Minutes Approved: The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 18, 2025 meeting. - Director's Commitment: Planning Director William Gilchrist committed to attending future meetings monthly and providing relevant reports. - Data Requests Formalized: The commission formally requested staff to: 1. Analyze the rate of construction for entitled projects and explore city actions to support project realization. 2. Investigate the feasibility of counting non-deed restricted affordable units toward affordable housing goals. - City Council Actions Noted: The City Attorney reported that recently approved ADU regulations are now effective, and an omnibus planning code amendment package, including design review changes, has been approved with a 45-day delayed effective date.

The Oakland City Council met on July 15, 2025, at 3:37 PM in City Hall, with Council President Kevin Jenkins presiding. The meeting lasted until 6:43 PM and covered a large consent calendar, public hearings, and several non-consent items, including bond issuances and revisions to the animal control ordinance. Councilmember Janani Ramachandran was excused at the start but arrived at 4:37 PM. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Item 5.1): Approved - Declarations of Local Emergency (Items 5.2, 5.3, 5.4): Renewed declarations for HIV/AIDS, medical cannabis access, and homelessness. - Salary Ordinance Amendment (Item 5.5): Final passage adding classifications and adjusting minimum wage compliance. - Citywide Impact Fee Regulations (Item 5.6): Final passage of ordinance updating Jobs/Housing, Affordable Housing, and Transportation impact fees. - Parking Fines Ordinance (Item 5.7): Final passage increasing fines and adopting a $40 fine for daylighting violations. - Omnibus Planning Code Amendments (Item 5.8): Final passage streamlining design review. - ADU/Fire Zone Code Amendments (Item 5.9): Final passage updating ADU regulations and fire hazard zone definitions. - License of 615 High Street to TRYBE, Inc. (Item 5.10): Final passage authorizing a $0 license fee for emergency food storage for two years with three one-year extensions. - D’Wayne Wiggins Way (Item 5.11): Adopted resolution to commemoratively name intersection of Olive Street and Eightieth Avenue. - Leimert Bridge Seismic Retrofit Contract Amendment (Item 5.12): Approved $150,000 increase to total $1,840,279.20. - MOU with Alameda County for HHAP 6 Funds (Item 5.13): Approved roles and responsibilities for homeless assistance funding. - Caltrans Funding for Trash Capture Projects (Item 5.14): Approved application for up to $8 million design and $20 million construction funds for three trash capture devices in East Oakland. - Equipment Services Cooperative Purchase Agreements (Item 5.15): Approved ongoing contracts up to $8,329,000. - Regional Measure 3 Goods Movement Funds (Item 5.16): Two resolutions approved for $29,616,005 for MLK Jr. Way streetscape improvements. - Lake Merritt Algaecide Exemption (Item 5.17): Approved limited exemption to integrated pest management policy to apply algaecides under NPDES permit. - Sales Tax Record Examination (Item 5.18): Approved superseding resolution to examine tax records. - Tree Maintenance Contract (Item 5.19): Awarded to West Coast Arborists, Inc. for $3,500,000 over three years with two-year extension option. - Emergency Tree Services Contracts (Item 5.20): Awarded to West Coast Arborists and The Professional Tree Care Company, each up to $1,000,000 for three years. - Item 5.21 (Resolution in Support of SB 332): Withdrawn from the agenda by a 5-2 vote (Fife and Wang voting no; Ramachandran excused). - UPRR Crossing Agreements for Fruitvale Alive! Gap Closure (Item 5.22): Approved $1,599,998 for rail crossing improvements. - Settlement in Curran v. City of Oakland (Item 5.23): Approved consent decree for 25-year ADA compliance, $35,000 each to two plaintiffs, and up to $2,008,000 in attorney fees. - Support for SB 63 (Regional Transit Funding) (Item 5.25): Adopted resolution supporting November 2026 ballot measure. - Veterinarian Supplies Contract with MWI Animal Health (Item 5.26): Approved $66,000 increase and new $1,000,000 contract through 2028. - Wildfire Prevention Commission Appointments (Item 5.27): Confirmed seven appointees. - Employee Benefits Broker Consultant Contract (Item S5.28): Approved five-year agreement with Keenan & Associates for $481,250. - Fiscal Year 2026-30 Oakland Roadmap to Fiscal Health (Item S5.29): Informational report received and filed. - Paving Equipment Parts and Repair Services Contract (Item S5.30): Awarded to Nixon-Egli Equipment Company for $2,800,000 over four years, waiving local business requirements. - Citywide Pavement Rehabilitation Projects (Items S5.31 and S5.32): Two contracts awarded to McGuire and Hester: $25,948,875 and $26,188,425. - Pedestrian Right-of-Way Construction Contracts (Item S5.33): Approved authorization for contracts up to $7,500,000 each to enable rapid ADA compliance. - Waiver of Local Business Requirements for PROW Construction (Item S5.34): Approved to increase competition and lower prices. - Eliminate Annual Cap on Sidewalk Assistance Program (Item S5.35): Approved resolution to authorize no-cost sidewalk repairs for low-income property owners with no cap. - Memorandum of Agreement for 571 Crofton Avenue (Item S5.36): Approved agreement with Piedmont for processing entitlements. - Annexation of City-Owned Property at Joaquin Miller Park (Item S5.37): Approved application to LAFCO for annexation of 25,700 sq ft parcel. - Property BID Annual Reports and Assessments (Item S5.38): Approved assessments for nine business improvement districts, with 5% increases for most and 3.2% for Downtown Oakland District; also approved ORSA resolution for $3,266.79 assessment. - OAB Air Quality Informational Report (Item S5.39): Received report on operational air quality plans for Prologis warehouses and Oakland Maritime Support Services construction. - Professional Services Agreement with Cityspan Technologies (Item S5.40): Approved $375,400 for database licensing, plus $64,950 for past due invoices. - Revisions to Animal Control Ordinance (Item S5.41): Approved on introduction (first reading) with a vote of 7-1 (Ramachandran voting no). Final passage scheduled for September 16, 2025. The ordinance reduces holding period to 72 hours, removes requirement to accept all surrendered animals, allows finders to keep strays, requires spay/neuter for outdoor cats and impounded dogs, and authorizes fee waivers based on financial need. - Mayor’s Designation to Police and Fire Retirement Board (Item S5.42): Approved urgency finding and resolution designating Finance Director to serve on the board. - Support for AB 1242 (Language Access) (Item S5.43): Approved urgency finding and resolution supporting establishment of a Language Access Director and amendments to Bilingual Services Act. - Oakland Head Start Children’s Initiative Funding (Item S5.44): Approved urgency finding and acceptance of up to $27,492,648 from First 5 Alameda County for Head Start programming through 2027, and grant to Bananas, Inc. for $235,130. - Early Childhood Apprenticeship Program (Item S5.45): Approved urgency finding and authorization for MOU with Peralta Community College District and Tides Center for apprenticeship expansion, accepting up to $449,110 in reimbursements. Public Comments & Testimony - 64 speakers addressed the consent calendar, with many speaking on the withdrawn SB 332 resolution, the animal control ordinance, and other items. - Support for SB 332 (Item 5.21): Dozens of speakers urged the council to support the resolution, arguing that PG&E’s rate increases and safety record necessitate a feasibility study of not-for-profit utility models. Speakers included Scott Brown, a licensed engineer, who called PG&E a “continuing menace.” Many noted that low-income and communities of color are disproportionately affected by high rates and disconnections. - Opposition to Section 2 of the Animal Control Ordinance (S5.41): Numerous volunteers and residents spoke against the provision allowing the shelter to reject owner-surrendered animals. They argued it would lead to increased abandonment, particularly in low-income communities, and that the shelter is already underfunded. Speakers like Cindy Cooper, Johanna Widger, and Valerie Green shared personal stories of turned-away cats and kittens. Some requested more time for stakeholder input. - Support for SB 63 (Item 5.25): Ariana Casanova (State Senator Jesse Arreguín’s office), Robert Rayburn (BART Board), and Maria Henderson (AC Transit) urged passage, citing transit funding deficits and the importance of BART to Oakland. - Support for AB 1242 (Item S5.43): Julia Liao (Asian Health Services) and others spoke in favor of the language access bill. - Support for Bond Issuances (Items 11 and 12): Angelina Cornejo, Tono Trachtenberg, Nicole Guzman, and Mary Ann Lim urged the council to proceed with bond sales to fund affordable housing and infrastructure, warning that delays could cause project cancellations. - Concerns about Bond Issuance: Gene Hazard argued that the city’s negative credit ratings make bond sales risky, and that refunding existing debt may not be authorized by the original ballot measures. - Comments on Homelessness, Parking Fines, and Parks: Several speakers raised issues about homeless encampments, parking citations on stolen vehicles, and neglected parks. Discussion Items - Withdrawal of Item 5.21 (SB 332): Council President Jenkins moved to withdraw the item, citing a need for more discussion. Councilmember Fife spoke in favor, explaining that the resolution only called for a feasibility study and that she was concerned about PG&E’s rate hikes and disconnections. The motion passed 5-2 (Fife and Wang dissenting; Ramachandran excused). - Animal Control Ordinance (S5.41): Councilmember Ramachandran registered opposition to Section 2, expressing concern about turning away animals. Deputy City Administrator Joe DeVries explained that the ordinance aligns with best practices and that the shelter is under severe staffing and budget strain (200 hours monthly overtime, an officer working 2.5 weeks without a day off). He committed to developing administrative guidelines before final passage and to meet with stakeholders. Councilmember Wang requested a three-month and six-month data report back. Councilmember Gallo emphasized the need to support volunteers. Councilmember Fife noted that budget cuts have hurt the shelter and urged transparency. Councilmember Houston asked about alignment with other Bay Area shelters; DeVries confirmed that Oakland is the only one without a managed intake policy. - Brooklyn Basin Bonds (Item 10): Staff presented the resolution to approve the official statement for special tax bonds. Councilmember Brown asked about the impact of assessed value reductions on parcels G and J; the municipal advisor confirmed no impact on bond security. Councilmember Fife clarified that the park parceling controversy is not part of this item. The resolution passed 7-0-1 (Fife excused). - General Obligation Bonds (Item 11): Staff presented the first reading of an ordinance authorizing up to $300 million in new bonds and up to $55 million in refunding bonds for streets, facilities, and affordable housing. Councilmember Ramachandran asked about the timeline and rating; staff noted pricing around October 24 and closing November 4, with a strong team. The ordinance was approved on introduction 7-0-1 (Houston excused). - Bond Issuance Plan Informational Report (Item 12): Received and filed 7-0-1 (Houston excused). - Parking Citation System Agreement Extension (Item 9): Staff requested a one-year extension with Modaxo Traffic Management for $2,509,697 to allow time to finalize a new procurement. Gene Hazard spoke against the practice of extending expired contracts. The resolution passed 8-0. Key Outcomes - Consent Calendar Approved: 8-0, with Ramachandran voting no on S5.41 only. - Item 5.21 Withdrawn: 5-2-1. - Animal Control Ordinance (S5.41): Approved on introduction (first reading) 7-1, with final passage scheduled for September 16, 2025. Commitments made to develop administrative guidelines, engage stakeholders, and report back on data at 3 and 6 months. - Brooklyn Basin Special Tax Bonds (Item 10): Adopted 7-0-1. - GO Bonds (Item 11): Introduced 7-0-1; final passage September 16, 2025. - Bond Issuance Informational Report (Item 12): Received and filed 7-0-1. - Parking Citation System Contract (Item 9): Adopted 8-0. - Council Adjourned: In memory of civil rights attorney Dan Siegel at 6:43 PM.

The Oakland City Council Rules & Legislation Committee convened on Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 10:43 AM and adjourned at 11:50 AM. The meeting was chaired by Council President Kevin Jenkins, with Councilmembers Rowena Brown, Carroll Fife, and Janani Ramachandran present (quorum of 4). The committee reviewed and scheduled numerous items for upcoming City Council and committee meetings, approved urgency findings for four items, adjusted consent/non-consent designations, and heard public testimony on the citywide security services contract and East Oakland Senior Center concerns. Consent Calendar - Approval of June 26, 2025 Minutes: Accepted unanimously (4-0). - New Scheduling Items (as amended): The following items were approved with urgency findings to bypass committee and proceed directly to the July 15, 2025 City Council agenda on consent: - 3.1: Mayor’s designation of Director of Finance to the Police and Fire Retirement Board. - 3.2: Oakland Head Start Children’s Initiative FY 2024-27 funding application (up to $27,492,648). - 3.3: Resolution supporting AB 1242 (language access director and AI translation review). - 3.4: Early Childhood Apprenticeship Program funding (up to $449,110 in reimbursements). - Recommendations from July 8 Committees (all forwarded to July 15 City Council on consent): - 3.10: Employee Benefits Broker Consultant Contract with Keenan & Associates ($481,250). - 3.11: Fiscal Year 2026-30 Oakland Roadmap to Fiscal Health (informational report). - 3.12: Nixon-Egli Equipment Company contract for paving equipment parts ($2.8 million over four years). - 3.13 & 3.14: Citywide Pavement Rehabilitation Projects 1007572 and 1007573 ($25.95M and $26.19M). - 3.15A: Contract Authorization for Pedestrian Right-of-Way Construction (up to $7.5M each). - 3.15B: Resolution waiving Local/Small Local Business Enterprise requirements for PROW construction. - 3.16: Eliminate Annual Cap on Sidewalk Assistance Program (no cap on low-income owner repairs). - 3.18: Memorandum of Agreement for 571 Crofton Avenue (Piedmont processing entitlements). - 3.19: Annexation of city-owned parcel at Joaquin Miller Park. - 3.20: Property BID Annual Reports and Assessment Payment Approval (including 5% and 3.2% assessment increases). - 3.21: OAB Air Quality Informational Report. - 3.22: Professional Services Agreement with Cityspan Technologies ($375,400 over two years). - 3.23: Revisions to Animal Control Ordinance (moved from non-consent to consent by Councilmember Fife). Public Comments & Testimony Item 3.17 – Citywide Security Services Contract - Eric Coleman (Allied Universal government specialist): Expressed disappointment with the Public Works committee’s decision to not approve the staff-recommended award to Allied Universal. He argued the committee engaged in improper speculation, deviated from procurement procedures, and failed to consider Marina Security’s limited capacity (approximately 200 total employees vs. required 93 security professionals). He noted Allied Universal has over 1,600 employees in Oakland, with 1,000 living in the city, and that Marina has pending litigation including wage and hour claims. - Frank Doyle (Allied Universal general manager): Stressed Allied Universal’s commitment to employee growth and integration into Oakland communities, citing personal experience. - Brian Van Lu (Allied Universal Oakland branch general manager): Listed major clients (e.g., BART, Kaiser, Port of Oakland) and emphasized the company’s 20-year presence in Oakland with 20 administrative staff. - Joseph Collier (Allied Universal employee): Cited personal positive impact from 10 years at the company and urged the committee to follow proper procedures. - Anthony Botello (Allied Universal client manager): Mentioned open interview days and community relationships, including work with subsidized housing and Chinatown properties. - Gene Hazard (public speaker): Criticized the committee for failing to follow procurement protocol, accusing them of keeping the current contract in place month-to-month while the contractor is under FBI investigation. He also challenged the committee’s use of Rule 24 and urgency findings, citing Brown Act requirements for transparency. Item 4 – Review of Draft Agendas / Open Forum (Senior Center Concerns) - Pamela Farron (NAACP Oakland Branch Vice President): Thanked Councilmember Houston for attending a senior center meeting but noted the East Oakland Senior Center is at risk of closure due to staffing loss. She presented a petition with 400 signatures and requested a special council meeting to amend the budget to keep the center open five days a week. - Rucius Wilson (East Oakland Senior Center member): Requested the center stay open five days a week, extension of staff member Angela Galbraith’s contract, a forensic audit, inclusion of seniors in hiring panels, and a clear timeline for construction/ generator installation. - Patty Jo Selowitz (NAACP Executive Committee): Supported the senior center requests and asked for an agenda item to amend the budget. - Dondria Morgan (former city employee, senior center member): Detailed the center’s role as a cooling center and community resource. Requested Angela Galbraith’s contract be extended beyond August 5, 2025, and called for a clear construction timeline. - Gene Hazard (continued): Demanded reports on several issues (e.g., California Black Ownership Initiative, Chinatown homeless housing, Department of Race and Equity updates) and again criticized the committee’s adherence to the Brown Act. Discussion Items Item 3.17 – Citywide Security Services Contract (Re-scheduling) - Staff presented two new resolutions: one awarding the contract to Marina Security Services, Inc. and one to Allied Universal Security Services LP, both for a three-year term at $9 million annually (total not to exceed $45 million). The department’s position remained that Allied Universal should be awarded the contract. - Councilmember Ramachandran expressed confusion about presenting two options from an RFP process and requested the item be pulled and brought back for scheduling the following week with written materials. The committee agreed, and the item was withdrawn with no new date, to be rescheduled for the next Rules & Legislation Committee. Item 4 – Review of Draft Agendas - The City Administrator’s office requested several changes: withdraw Item 8 (Letter of Support for Measure W funding) from the July 15 agenda; reschedule the FLSA Overtime Investigation Report to a special Finance & Management Committee on September 30; withdraw OPD Surveillance Technology Annual Reports from the July 22 Public Safety agenda; and schedule the 2025-2029 Economic Development Action Plan to the September 30 CED Committee. - Councilmember Fife noted she was not willing to pull Item 5.21 (related to PG&E) from the July 15 agenda but was open to discussion with stakeholders. - The committee approved all amendments as read. Key Outcomes - Approved Minutes (4-0). - Approved New Scheduling Items as Amended (4-0), including urgency findings for items 3.1-3.4. - Adjusted Consent/Non-Consent Designations: Items 3.15A, 3.15B, 3.16, and 3.23 were moved to consent. - Withdrawn Items: - 3.9 (Citywide Security Services Contract to Marina Security Services) – withdrawn with no new date. - Item 8 from July 15 agenda (Letter of Support for Measure W) – withdrawn with no new date. - Rescheduled Items: - FLSA Overtime Investigation Report – withdrawn from July 22 Finance & Management and rescheduled to September 30 special meeting. - OPD Surveillance Technology 2024 Annual Reports – withdrawn from July 22 Public Safety and placed on pending list. - 2025-2029 Economic Development Action Plan – scheduled from pending list to September 30 CED Committee. - Cancellation: July 22, 2025 Public Works and Transportation Committee meeting was cancelled; next meeting scheduled for September 30, 2025. - Public Comments: The committee heard extensive testimony on the security contract and senior center. No action was taken on senior center requests, but the Assistant City Administrator was noted as available for follow-up. - Adjournment: 11:50 AM.