Public Meetings - Oakland, California

The Rules and Legislation Committee met on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at 10:38 AM to consider scheduling items, draft agendas, and a major charter reform proposal. Due to a high number of public speakers, speaking time was limited to 1 minute 30 seconds for item 3 and 1 minute for item 5. Consent Calendar - Item 1 (Approval of Minutes): Approved unanimously for the May 7, 2026 committee meeting. - Item 2 (Determination of Scheduling Outstanding Committee Items): Approved as is with no changes. Public Comments & Testimony - Item 3 (New Scheduling): Multiple speakers addressed the Becker Boards billboard amendment (item 3.9). Christopher Powell (attorney for Outfront Foster Interstate) urged rejection, arguing the proposal would cut guaranteed payments from $750,000 to $250,000 per year, retroactively claw back payments, and reduce billboard removal obligations. Nima Link (Becker Boards) supported the amendment as a necessary lifeline to continue community benefits. Other speakers commented on item 3.8 (SB 1415), item 3.13 (AANHPI Heritage Month), and item 3.14 (tax anticipation notes). - Item 5 (Charter Reform): Over 30 speakers expressed positions. Supporters (including Faith in Action East Bay, Spur, League of Women Voters, and labor representatives) urged placing the strong mayor proposal before voters, citing the extensive community process with over 750 participants. Opponents (including candidates and long-time residents) argued for a council-manager form of government or a “third option,” warning that a strong mayor model concentrates power and could weaken council oversight. Several speakers requested a fiscal analysis before adoption. - Open Forum: Two speakers commented on charter reform and city management issues. Discussion Items - Item 3 (New Scheduling) – Sub-item 3.9 (Becker Boards Amendment): The city attorney advised that a 17-day newspaper notice is required under Oakland Municipal Code Title 17. After discussion, the item was rescheduled to the June 16, 2026 City Council agenda to allow time for the notice. The rule 24 justification was provided: adjustments are needed to ensure market viability of the billboards and continued community revenue. - Item 3 – Other Sub-items: Several items were adjusted: item 3.8 withdrawn; item 3.2 (Arthur E. Thomas Way) scheduled for June 2 consent; item 3.10, 3.12, and 3.13 (with updated rule 24) placed on consent or non-consent; item 3.14 moved to June 23 FMC; item 3.17 moved to June 23 CED; item 3.24 withdrawn; item 3.25 placed on public safety pending list. - Item 4 (Draft Agendas & Pending Lists): Adjustments made to upcoming committee agendas. Public safety item (crime data report) moved to October 27; CED item (General Plan annual report) moved to pending list. - Item 5 (Charter Reform Resolution): Mayor Sheng Thao presented the proposal, emphasizing structural clarity, strong mayor with strong council, independent budget analysis, department head confirmation, full-time council, and elimination of Section 218 misdemeanor provision. She addressed concerns about rhetoric and historical bias. Councilmembers discussed accountability, financial implications, and preferred governance models. Councilmember Houston expressed support for the current strong manager system. Councilmember Ramachandran stated preference for council-manager but supported forwarding to full council. Councilmember Fife questioned accountability mechanisms. The Public Ethics Commission (PEC) recommended amendments to salary-setting timing and Section 218 enforcement scope. The committee voted 4-0 to forward the resolution to the June 2, 2026 City Council agenda as a non-consent item. Key Outcomes - Item 3 (New Scheduling) – Approved as amended: All sub-items scheduled per committee adjustments. - Item 4 (Draft Agendas) – Approved as amended. - Item 5 (Charter Reform) – Forwarded to City Council: Motion by Councilmember Brown, seconded by Councilmember Fife, to place the resolution on the June 2, 2026 City Council agenda as a non-consent item. Vote: 4-0 (Brown, Fife, Ramachandran, Jenkins). - Next Steps: PEC staff will work with the author on suggested amendments. The full council will debate and potentially vote on June 2. - Meeting Adjourned at approximately 12:30 PM.

The Oakland Public Ethics Commission (PEC) held a regular meeting on May 20, 2026, addressing public comments, a presentation on local public financing, proposed charter amendments regarding council member compensation and non-interference, case closures, and enforcement updates. The commission voted on salary-setting amendments and defined its enforcement role for charter section 218. Public Comments & Testimony - Gene Hazard criticized recent appointees for voting on a ballot measure dismissal without full knowledge, discussed a writ related to the April 15, 2025 special election, and warned of upcoming issues concerning a tie vote on the protected tree ordinance. - Ralph Cans cited a Fresno County ruling against ad hoc subcommittees, arguing the PEC's similar practice violates the Brown Act, and called for independent legal counsel due to a conflict of interest with the city attorney representing the mayor. - During public comment on the local financing presentation, Ralph Cans questioned the efficiency of Seattle's voucher program, noting administrative overhead exceeded funds to candidates and that independent expenditures have not decreased. - On charter amendments, Gene Hazard argued against salary increases given the city's fiscal crisis and criticized the process, while Helen Hutcheson (League of Women Voters of Oakland) supported placing the full charter reform proposal before voters. - Regarding case closures, Gene Hazard listed past 218 violations and alleged conflicts of interest, and Ralph Cans (complainant) disputed the characterization of a redistricting commission agenda notice error as inadvertent. Discussion Items Open Forum (Item 3) - Commissioners received public comments from Hazard and Cans on various procedural and legal concerns. No commission discussion followed due to open forum rules. Staff and Commissioner Announcements (Item 2) - Executive Director Duran announced potential dates (August 12-13 or 19-20) for a strategic planning retreat special meeting. Local Public Financing Update Presentation (Item 4) - Dee Azarmi (Common Cause California) presented an overview of public financing models (grant-based, matching, vouchers) nationally and in California. Key examples: Los Angeles (6-to-1 matching, increased small donor participation), San Francisco (matching with oversight), and Seattle (voucher program with four $25 vouchers per resident). Highlights from Seattle: 88% of voucher users were first-time donors, large contributions over $250 dropped 93%, and the program was reauthorized with increased funding despite budget pressures. She noted Oakland passed Measure W with 74% support but faces implementation challenges due to budget constraints. - Commissioners asked about minimum age (18), outreach strategies (trusted messenger model, bus campaigns), and comparative efficacy of matching vs. voucher programs. Questions also addressed administrative costs and dedicated funding streams (Seattle uses a parcel tax). Charter Amendments (Items related to sections 202, 218, 300, 603) - Preston Kilgore (Deputy Chief of Staff to Mayor Lee) introduced the proposal: modernizing section 218 (affirming council's right to inquiry for constituent services while prohibiting coercion), defining council service as full-time, and aligning salary-setting for all elected officials under the PEC. He emphasized equity and requested the commission support the salary amendments and continue discussions on section 218. - Executive Director Duran presented staff analysis supporting the salary amendments (standardizing process, adding city administrator/consultant assistance at PEC discretion) but expressed concern about expanding PEC enforcement to new duties under section 218 A-C, noting it overlaps with existing GIA provisions and could lead to inappropriate mediation of political disputes. - Commissioners debated: - For salaries: Support for aligning all officials on the same cycle (every two or four years), clarifying consultant authority is at PEC discretion, and recognizing the city's fiscal condition. A motion passed (6-0) to support the salary amendments with added language encouraging consideration of a four-year cycle to depoliticize and conserve resources. - For section 218: Most commissioners opposed PEC enforcement of sections A-C (communication pathways) but were open to keeping enforcement for section D (non-interference/coercion). A motion passed (6-0) to support section 218 as proposed but limit PEC enforcement authority solely to new section 218D, with direction to staff to work with the mayor's office and city council to align language with GIA and make necessary technical amendments. Case Closure Plan (Item 7) - Enforcement Chief presented two cases for closure without action: one where the respondent is deceased and the organization defunct; another regarding alleged failure to send redistricting commission agendas, deemed an inadvertent list maintenance error with no intent to deceive, stale evidence, and reduced public value. - Commissioners approved the closure plan on a motion (6-0). Informational Items - Oakland Campaign Reform Act Guide for 2026: Senior Analyst Jelani Killing presented the updated educational guide for candidates and committees. Commissioners praised its thoroughness. - Enforcement Program Report: The enforcement chief reported 16 preliminary reviews completed year-to-date (adjusted methodology). Two dismissed complaints: (1) a 2018 whistleblower retaliation allegation against the former city auditor – PEC lacked enforcement mechanism under current law; (2) a 2020 allegation that then-Mayor Schaff used a city mailing list for endorsements – low probability of substantiation and resource concerns. Commissioners noted the need for improved education on misuse of city resources and better coordination between enforcement and program teams. Executive Director's Report - Duran provided updates: Mayor Lee's proposed 2026-27 budget includes no cuts to PEC staffing and allows filling vacancies, though democracy dollars startup funds for the Maplight contract were cut (absorbable for 2026-27). Office renovation and case management software projects are on hold due to budget constraints. Strategic planning retreat will be combined with the mandatory August special meeting for limited public financing distribution. Subcommittee Reports - Transparency Committee: Chair reported meeting scheduled for the next day. - Democracy Dollars Pilot Ad Hoc Subcommittee: The subcommittee met to develop options for a limited pilot of the voucher program in 2028, given current unfunded status. They are revising talking points and gathering materials to build consensus and advocate for funding. Key Outcomes - Salaries: Motion passed (6-0) to support the proposed charter amendments related to elected official salary-setting, with amendments to align all officials on the same cycle (preferably every two years, with encouragement to consider four years) and clarify that use of city administrator/consultant assistance is at PEC discretion. Staff directed to work with authors on these clarifications. - Section 218: Motion passed (6-0) to support the proposed changes to charter section 218 but limit PEC enforcement authority to new subsection D (non-interference/coercion), removing sections A-C from PEC jurisdiction under 603B. Staff directed to work with the mayor's office and city council to align section 218D with GIA and make necessary technical amendments. - Case Closure Plan: Approved (6-0) closing two backlog cases without action. - Next Steps: Staff will continue budget advocacy, finalize the campaign reform guide, and prepare for the August special meeting and strategic planning retreat.

The Oakland Planning Commission met on May 20, 2026, at 11:00 AM and adjourned at 5:36 PM. The meeting covered three major items: an informational report on the 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report (APR), a public hearing on the 2026-2031 Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP), and a proposal to amend the Planning Code for ADU consistency with state law and other revisions. Public comments were received on the 6230 Claremont Avenue project and the housing element. Public Comments & Testimony - James Van (Oakland Tenants Union) asked how the housing element report reflects residents earning far below HUD affordable thresholds (e.g., $47,000/year for a family of four in the MacArthur area) and whether housing production meets their needs. No direct response was given during the meeting. - Open Forum Speakers (11 total) focused on the proposed 6230 Claremont Avenue project, expressing support for housing but raising concerns about traffic safety, garbage truck access, shadow impacts on Safeway Plaza, and the developer's density calculations. Speakers urged rigorous review and adherence to zoning codes. Discussion Items 1. 2025 Housing Element Annual Progress Report (Item 1) Staff from the Planning and Building Department (Bibi Lagarder) and Housing and Community Development (Caleb Smith) presented the APR. Key data: 1,007 units proposed, 1,944 entitled, 712 permitted, and 1,391 completed in 2025. Only 14% of Oakland's total RHNA has been met in the first three years, with stronger performance for very low- and low-income units (19% and 25%) and weaker performance for moderate-income (9%) and market-rate (9%) units. The presentation included results of the 2025 ADU survey (low response rate) and an analysis of moderate-income rents vs. market-rate rents, finding that moderate-income rent limits have exceeded market-rate rents in most new buildings since mid-2020. Commissioners discussed methodology, the need to count non-deed-restricted moderate-income units (as San Jose does), and concerns about deed-restricted affordable unit concentration in low-resource areas. A motion was made to recommend to City Council to remove the moderate-income-only on-site impact fee category and to allow counting non-deed-restricted units for RHNA. The motion passed 4-1 (Chair Rink dissenting). 2. Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (Item 2) Veronica Cole (Emergency Planning Coordinator) and Olga Crow (Assistant Emergency Manager) presented the 2026-2031 LHMP, which updates hazard profiles with an equity focus and includes 75 mitigation actions. The plan lists earthquake, severe weather, and fire as high risks. Approval would make Oakland eligible for FEMA funding and a potential 0% cost share for disasters. No public speakers. Commissioners praised the equity emphasis and utility for disaster recovery. A motion to recommend adoption to City Council passed unanimously. 3. Planning Code Amendments: ADU Regulations and Other Changes (Item 3) Ruslan Philippau presented proposed amendments to align ADU regulations with state law (removing subjective visibility criteria, updating statute references, etc.), plus changes to discontinuance standards for nonconforming activities (60-day cessation period), ministerial design review in S10 zones, recreational assembly in Wood Street zone, front setbacks in the Coliseum zone, and various clerical corrections. Staff noted that findings for ADU restrictions in high-fire zones were previously adopted and reaffirmed. No public speakers. A motion to recommend approval to City Council passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 (Housing Element APR): Passed 4-1 to recommend to City Council to remove the moderate-income-only on-site impact fee category and to count non-deed-restricted units for RHNA. (Commissioner Ahrens motion, Commissioner Lee second; Chair Rink opposed). - Motion 2 (Local Hazard Mitigation Plan): Passed unanimously to recommend City Council adopt the plan as an appendix to the Safety Element. - Motion 3 (ADU Code Amendments): Passed unanimously to recommend approval of the eight proposed code changes and affirm staff’s environmental determination. - Next steps: The Housing Element APR will go to City Council's Rules Committee on May 21 and Community and Economic Development Committee on June 9; the LHMP and ADU amendments are also scheduled for upcoming council hearings. The Planning Commission will hold elections for chair and vice chair on June 3, 2026.

The Oakland City Council met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, with six members present and two excused (Councilmembers Fife and initially Houston, though Houston later participated). The council unanimously approved a resolution to rename a plaza as More Hope Plaza honoring Peggy Moore and Hope Wood, authorized a retired annuitant appointment for continuity on the Oakland Army Base project, and approved the first reading of a $200 million tax revenue anticipation note ordinance. The consent calendar was passed with amendments, including an emergency floodplain ordinance and continuation of an item. Public comments addressed lead abatement, illegal dumping, and other community concerns. Consent Calendar - Approved draft minutes from the meeting of May 5, 2026. - Approved numerous items, including declarations of local emergency (AIDS, medical cannabis, homelessness), a floodplain ordinance (amended as an emergency ordinance), support for state legislation (smoke shops, illegal dumping enforcement, affordable housing bond), commemorative street renaming for Gary Payton, and various contract and grant awards. - Item 6.5 (easement) was continued to the June 2 council meeting. - Item 6.6 (floodplain ordinance) was amended to include findings and adopted as an emergency ordinance. - Vote: 7 ayes, 1 excused (Councilmember Fife). Public Comments & Testimony - On Item 5.1: Multiple speakers expressed full support for the More Hope Plaza renaming, honoring the legacies of Peggy Moore and Hope Wood, two prominent activists and community organizers who died in a traffic accident in May 2024. - On Item 5.2: One speaker opposed the retired annuitant appointment, citing concerns about contamination at the Oakland Army Base and arguing that development there is unsafe. - On Item 5.3: A speaker questioned the repayment source for the borrowing, suggesting reliance on Measure E funds, and raised concerns about consequences if repayment deadlines are missed. - On Consent Calendar: Speakers supported Affordable Housing Month (Item 6.15) and the Gary Payton street renaming (Item 6.18). Several speakers urged the city to use lead settlement funds for proactive rental inspections and lead abatement. One speaker criticized the illegal dumping expenditure plan, asking for KPIs and more frequent reporting. Another speaker questioned the effectiveness of the ceasefire program and requested data. Discussion Items - Item 5.1 - More Hope Plaza Renaming: Councilmembers Brown and Wong presented the resolution, highlighting the lives and work of Peggy Moore and Hope Wood, who were killed in a car accident in May 2024. A video clip of Peggy Moore was played. Councilmembers shared personal stories of Moore's mentorship and advocacy. The resolution was approved unanimously (7 ayes, 1 excused). - Item 5.2 - Retired Annuitant Appointment: Staff explained the need to retain John Manette, a project manager with 26 years of service, as a temporary part-time retired annuitant to ensure continuity on the Oakland Army Base project, including meeting obligations for a state grant and real estate negotiations. The council approved (7 ayes, 1 excused). - Item 5.3 - Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes (TRANs): The council authorized borrowing up to $200 million to cover temporary cash flow needs and to prefund CalPERS accrued liability, garnering a 3.34% discount. The first reading was approved (7 ayes, 1 excused). A second reading and resolution for documents will come next month. Key Outcomes - Approved the resolution renaming the plaza near the Oakland LGBTQ Cultural Center as More Hope Plaza (7-0-1). - Authorized the appointment of John Manette as a retired annuitant (7-0-1). - Approved the first reading of the ordinance authorizing up to $200 million in tax revenue anticipation notes (7-0-1). - Approved the consent calendar as amended, including the continuation of Item 6.5 and adoption of Item 6.6 as an emergency ordinance (7-0-1). - Council adjourned in memory of the victims of the 85th Avenue tragedy (Robert Dixon, Charles Blackman, and others), former council member Wilson Rowles Jr., former city arborist Christopher Buckley, and community member Edam May Johnson.

The Oakland City Council met on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 11:30 AM. Six members were present, two were excused. The meeting covered three non-consent items, a 33-item consent calendar, council announcements, and open forum. Key actions included renaming a plaza, approving a retired annuitant appointment, authorizing $200 million in borrowing, and adopting resolutions on affordable housing, illegal dumping enforcement, and other state legislative positions. Consent Calendar - Items 6.1–6.33 were approved as amended. Notable items: - 6.5 (Easement at 260 Oak Street): Continued to the June 2, 2026 council meeting. - 6.6 (Floodplain Ordinance): Adopted as an emergency ordinance to maintain FEMA compliance; deadline was May 25, 2026. - 6.15 (Affordable Housing Month): Recognized May 2026 as Affordable Housing Month. - 6.18 (Gary Payton Commemorative Street Renaming): Honored basketball legend Gary Payton. - 6.26 (Illegal Dumping Expenditure Plan): Approved $1.1 million for enforcement, though councilmembers expressed concerns about fine levels and data collection. - 6.31 (Ceasefire Lifeline Contracts): Contract renewals for violence intervention. - Motion to approve the consent calendar (as amended) by Councilmember Brown, second by Councilmember Houston. Passed 7-0 (one excused). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 5.1 (More Hope Plaza): Multiple speakers, including former Commissioner Olabala, celebrated Peggy Moore and Hope Wood. One speaker urged recognition of Moore as a Black woman, not just a "woman of color." - Item 5.2 (Retired Annuitant John Monetta): Mr. Olabala objected to any Army Base work due to contamination (lead, arsenic, asbestos) and health risks. - Item 5.3 (Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes): Mr. Olabala questioned repayment sources, noting the $200 million must be repaid within 15 months using future revenue (e.g., Measure E funds). - Consent Calendar: - Speakers supported Affordable Housing Month (Carla Guerrera, East Bay Housing Organizations) and the Gary Payton renaming. - Mr. Hazard critiqued procedural violations related to a prior tree ordinance vote. - Dwayne Nelson opposed the illegal dumping expenditure, demanding KPIs and outcome urgency. - Open Forum: Over a dozen speakers, primarily youth from La Clínica’s Healthy Homes Initiative, advocated for lead abatement programs using settlement funds. Residents highlighted unsafe housing conditions (roaches, broken railings, lack of bathroom bars). Gregory Slaughter praised councilmembers for addressing Oakland Station conditions. Discussion Items - 5.1 – More Hope Plaza Renaming: Councilmembers Brown, Wong, Houston, and Ramachandran shared personal tributes to Peggy Moore and Hope Wood. A video clip of Moore’s interview was shown. The resolution passed 7-0. - 5.2 – Appointment of Retired Annuitant (John Monetta): Staff explained the need for continuity on the Oakland Army Base project (critical state grant, Costco negotiations). Councilmember Houston noted Monetta’s 26-year service and past cost savings. Motion to approve by Councilmember Guyo, second by Ramachandran. Passed 7-0. - 5.3 – $200 Million Tax Revenue Anticipation Notes: Treasury Director David Jones outlined the borrowing for cash flow and a CalPERS discount. Councilmember Guyo queried repayment timeline (15 months) and usage (general fund operations). Motion by Ramachandran, second by Guyo. Passed 7-0 on first reading; second reading scheduled for next month. - Consent Calendar Discussion: Councilmembers Brown, Houston, Guyo, and Wong debated illegal dumping enforcement, calling for stronger penalties, dedicated OPD officers, and accountability for previously budgeted positions. Councilmember Wong also raised the need for graffiti enforcement. The consent calendar was approved as amended. - Council Announcements: Councilmembers noted the 20% reduction in homelessness (point-in-time count), honored victims of the 85th Avenue tragedy (Robert Dixon “Frog”, Charles Blackman, others), and recognized Affordable Housing Month, AAPI Heritage Month, and Women’s Health Month. Adjournments were made in memory of Wilson Riles Jr., Christopher Buckley, and Edam May Johnson. Key Outcomes - Item 5.1 – Approved (7-0): Resolution renaming plaza near LGBT Center as "More Hope Plaza." - Item 5.2 – Approved (7-0): Appointment of John Monetta as retired annuitant to continue Army Base work. - Item 5.3 – Approved on first reading (7-0): Ordinance authorizing $200 million in tax revenue anticipation notes for FY 2026-27. - Consent Calendar – Approved as amended (7-0): Including emergency floodplain ordinance and continuation of item 6.5. - Referrals: Councilmember Wong suggested adding a full-time OPD officer for illegal dumping and graffiti. Councilmember Houston promised to bring roach samples to the next meeting to highlight poor housing conditions. - Next Steps: Second reading of item 5.3 will occur at the June meeting. Staff directed to provide updates on lead abatement settlement funds and illegal dumping expenditure plans.

The Public Works and Transportation Committee met on May 12, 2026, at 11:33 a.m. with four members present (Councilmembers Gaio, Houston, Wong, and Chair Ungar). The committee considered several items including an illegal dumping expenditure plan, a pedestrian safety beacon project, a cooperative purchasing agreement, and a Caltrans grant for community cleanup and youth employment. All items were approved and forwarded to the full City Council for the May 19, 2026, agenda. Consent Calendar - Item 1 – Approval of Draft Minutes: Minutes from the March 24, 2026, and April 21, 2026, committee meetings were approved unanimously (4-0). - Item 2 – Determination of Schedule of Outstanding Committee Items: The pending list was accepted. Councilmember Gaio requested a future report on how Waste Management franchise fees (collected at $2.8 million/month, $34.6 million annually) are used. Public speaker Mr. Sada requested reports on delayed violation notices, Caltrans work commitments, the police administration building, tree removals at West Oakland BART, and project completion timelines. The motion passed 4-0. Public Comments & Testimony - On Item 2 (Pending List): Councilmember Gaio expressed frustration that franchise fee money should go directly to street cleaning and maintenance, not the general fund, and asked for an administrative report. He also noted that the city lacks mechanics (only 3 of 10 remain) and has 50-60 non-functional trucks. - On Item 5 (Illegal Dumping): - Dwayne Nelson (West Oakland resident): Criticized the effectiveness of existing cameras and raised concerns about 311 response times and equity in service delivery. He noted a specific open service request from June 2025 and questioned whether cleaning efforts would reduce dumping without deterrence. - Mr. Sada: Emphasized that cultural change, not just enforcement, is needed to solve dumping, and criticized the city for not holding property owners (including a black man and his white wife) equally accountable for violations. - Blair Beekman (via Zoom): Suggested using community dumpster days (as in San Jose) instead of relying solely on punitive measures, and urged more community engagement. - On Item 3 (RRFB Beacon Project): - Mr. Sada: Questioned how the two intersections (98th & C Street and Oakland Avenue & Moss Avenue) were selected, arguing for greater equity and asking why funds weren't used on other priorities like storm drains. - On Item 4 (Cooperative Purchase Agreement): - Mr. Sada: Asked why street lights at Keller & Mountain and Keller & Canyon Oaks Drive were installed but never turned on, and requested a list of incomplete public works projects. - Kevin Dolly: Supported the agreement but questioned why the city relies on a Missouri-based vendor instead of local electrical suppliers. - On Item 6 (Caltrans Grant): - Kevin Dolly: Criticized the amount of money allocated to Lake Merritt ($1.2 million total for Lake Merritt Institute) and argued for more equitable distribution of funds across the city. He also urged that youth jobs move beyond trash pickup into skilled trades like carpentry and electrical work. - Mr. Sada: Expressed concern that nonprofits (e.g., housing consortium, Spanish Speaking Unity Council) have not been held accountable for past mismanagement. - Open Forum: - Kevin Dolly: Called for a future agenda item on trenching deposits and coordination with paving. - Mr. Sada: Criticized the city’s Measure E tax proposals and the handling of a tree violation where a property owned by a black man and a white woman was fined $900,000 after a three-year delay. - Blair Beekman (via Zoom): Urged the city to address language barriers in 311 services, noting that English-only policies exclude many residents, and recommended learning from San Jose’s multilingual outreach. Discussion Items - Item 5 – Illegal Dumping Expenditures Action Plan (IDEA Plan): Staff (Kristen Hathaway) presented a $1.1 million expenditure plan using funds from the FY 2025-27 budget (Fund 1720). The plan covers: renting two lightning loader trucks ($190K), additional equipment for KOCB crews ($95K), restarting bulky block parties, aerial camera imagery via Airbits ($150K), staffing overtime for zone-based surges ($300K), technology systems for data management ($50K), tablets for enforcement officers ($50K), a $40K grant to Keep Oakland Beautiful for outreach, and $60K to a local firm for education on proper waste management. Councilmembers discussed the need for hazmat training for environmental enforcement officers (EEOs), data collection for prosecution, and measuring success. Councilmember Houston emphasized deterrence over cleanup and noted that only 5 of 8 budgeted EEO positions are filled. Councilmember Wong asked about doubling the number of cameras (from 36) and using solar-powered models. Councilmember Fife highlighted the importance of privacy education regarding drone use. Councilmember Gaio criticized the lack of enforcement, noting that graffiti and dumping arrests are rare, and urged more direct action by city workers. - Item 3 – HSIP 9 Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacon (RRFB) Project: Staff (Joe Wang) reported that the city received $250,000 in federal Highway Safety Improvement Program funds for pedestrian safety improvements at 98th Avenue & C Street and Oakland Avenue & Moss Avenue. The contract awarded to Bay Area Lightworks Inc. for $304,900 (26% below estimate) could not include DBE participation due to a federal suspension of DBE goals. Councilmember Houston questioned the implications of rejecting federal terms; staff confirmed that would forfeit the grant. The resolution was amended to include CEQA findings. Councilmember Houston expressed support for the 98th & C Street location due to prior fatal accidents in an underserved area. - Item 4 – Cooperative Purchase Agreement with Graybar Electric: Staff (Joe Wang) presented a five-year agreement (through June 30, 2031) for up to $1.5 million in electrical, lighting, data, and security supplies via a co-op with Kansas City, Missouri. The contract is a bridge until Oakland-based vendors can be identified. Councilmember Wong raised concerns about slow street light repairs (6-month delays) and asked about theft-deterrent wiring. Councilmember Houston questioned why no Bay Area vendors bid; staff noted that a prior solicitation received no Oakland bids. - Item 6 – Caltrans Community Cleanup and Employment Pathway (CCEP) Grant: Staff (Kristen Hathaway) presented a $300,000 grant to expand Team Oakland (run by Youth Employment Partnership) from a summer-only program to year-round, and to increase the Lake Merritt Institute contract for cleanup and education. The resolution included urgency action because the grant began April 15, 2026. Councilmember Houston requested quarterly reports on outcomes and skills training for the youth participants. Councilmember Wong emphasized the importance of graffiti removal in Chinatown and language accessibility in 311. Key Outcomes - Item 5 (Illegal Dumping): Motion passed 4-0 to approve staff recommendations and forward to the May 19, 2026, City Council agenda on consent. - Item 3 (RRFB Project): Motion passed 4-0 to approve staff recommendations as amended (adding CEQA findings) and forward to the May 19, 2026, City Council agenda on consent. - Item 4 (Graybar Cooperative Agreement): Motion passed 4-0 to approve staff recommendations and forward to the May 19, 2026, City Council agenda on consent. - Item 6 (Caltrans CCEP Grant): Motion passed 4-0 to approve staff recommendations and forward to the May 19, 2026, City Council agenda on consent. - Direction to Staff: Councilmember Gaio requested a future report on the use of Waste Management franchise fees. Councilmember Houston requested reporting on the Caltrans grant outcomes, including skills training data. Staff committed to providing regular updates on the illegal dumping plan's KPIs and the status of EEO hazmat training.

The Finance and Management Committee met on May 12, 2026, beginning at 9:33 a.m. and adjourning after covering eight agenda items. The committee approved consent calendar items, heard public testimony on police civilianization and budget policy directives, reviewed an audit of business tax collections, and forwarded several items to the full City Council. Consent Calendar - Approved draft minutes from the committee meetings of March 24, 2026 and April 21, 2026 (4-0 vote). - Approved the determination of scheduled standing committee items as amended: item four (originally scheduled for May 26) was moved to the June 23 FMC meeting, and item five was withdrawn with no new date (4-0 vote). Public Comments & Testimony - Item 6 – Policy Directives (22 speakers): A large number of speakers, including representatives from IFPTE Local 21 and community organizations, urged the committee to civilianize at least 38 OPD positions currently held by sworn officers that could be filled by non-sworn staff. Speakers cited the city auditor's findings that OPD spent $55 million on overtime (400,000 hours) in the last year, and noted a 20% increase in administrative investigation overtime from 2019-2024. Several speakers emphasized that civilianization would save money, put more officers on the street, and improve oversight of internal affairs. One speaker from the public argued it was inappropriate for union representatives to criticize the police department. Others called for holding the city administrator accountable for implementing previously adopted directives. - Item 3 – Business Tax Audit (3 speakers): Speakers expressed concern about millions in uncollected taxes, the three-year statute of limitations, and the need for a clear timeline to fix the Revenue Management Bureau's processes. One speaker also raised the issue of unpaid fire inspection fees. - Item 4 – Landscaping & Lighting District (1 speaker): The speaker questioned the purpose of the public hearing if the resolution already presumes levy approval. - Item 5 – Annuity Appointment (2 speakers): One speaker raised environmental concerns about the Oakland Army Base contamination; another requested tracking of maximum hours for retirees. - Item 7 – Revenue Anticipation Notes (1 speaker): A speaker asked for a guarantee that the city can repay the $200 million notes within one year. - Open Forum (several speakers): Topics included coordination between paving and utility trenching, the upcoming budget deficit, and opposition to Measure E. Discussion Items - Item 6 – Status of Policy Directives: Deputy City Administrator Monica Davis presented a report on the implementation status of council policy directives from fiscal year 2021-23 through 2025-27. Committee members expressed frustration that the directive to civilianize 38 OPD positions and form a task force to transition internal affairs to CPRA by June 30, 2026 had not been acted upon. Chair Ramachandran noted that five civilian positions (already coded as civilian) had been filled by sworn officers due to hiring delays; only one of those five (intake technician) had been posted after 11 months. Councilmember Brown highlighted that a recruitment website would not launch until April 2027. Councilmember Wong questioned delays in abandoned vehicle surge funding under Measure BB. The committee voted to hold the item and request supplemental information from the city administrator, including specifics on barriers to civilianization, and to return at the June 23 FMC meeting. - Item 3 – Audit of Business Tax Collections: City Auditor Michael Houston and consultant George Sciles presented an audit of the Revenue Management Bureau covering July 2021–June 2024. Key findings: no delinquent accounts were sent to collections in 2023, and in 2024 about 4,100 accounts totaling $14 million were referred without proper research; unregistered business discovery fell 48%; inconsistent use of status codes; and lack of segregation of duties (over 2,800 manual adjustments, 75% by non-supervisory staff). Revenue and Tax Administrator Nicole Welch acknowledged the problems and described recent improvements, including timely delinquency notices, use of postcards to property owners, and a system migration to the cloud. The committee received and filed the audit report. - Item 4 – Landscaping & Lighting Assessment District: Staff presented the preliminary engineer’s report for FY 2026-27 and set a public hearing for June 2, 2026 at 3:30 p.m. The item was forwarded to the May 19 council agenda on consent. - Item 5 – Annuity Appointment (Retiree Re-employment): Staff requested council approval for a retiree to work up to 960 hours without a 180-day break to fill a critically needed position. Councilmember Brown asked for clarification on the time limit. The item was forwarded to the May 19 council agenda on consent. - Item 7 – Tax and Revenue Anticipation Notes (TRANs): Treasury Administrator David Jones presented a first-reading ordinance authorizing up to $200 million in notes to even out cash flow, including a prepayment to CalPERS for a discount of approximately 3.34%. The item was forwarded to the May 19 council agenda on non-consent. Key Outcomes - Item 6 – Policy Directives: Continued to the June 23, 2026 FMC meeting with a request for additional information on civilianization barriers, task force status, recruitment academies, and abandoned vehicle surge funding. - Item 3 – Business Tax Audit: Received and filed (4-0). The finance department’s implementation plan will be attached to the final report. - Item 4 – LAD Preliminary Report: Forwarded to the May 19, 2026 City Council consent agenda. - Item 5 – Annuity Appointment: Forwarded to the May 19, 2026 City Council consent agenda. - Item 7 – TRAN Ordinance: Forwarded to the May 19, 2026 City Council non-consent agenda. - All votes were 4-0 in favor.

The Oakland Public Safety Committee convened on May 12, 2026, at 6:03 PM to consider eight agenda items, including consent calendar items, a grant for community violence prevention activations, equipment contracts for the fire department, a proposed internship MOU with USC, and biannual reports from OPD and CPRA. The meeting included significant public comment and deliberation, resulting in several items being forwarded to the full council and one item being continued for additional information. Consent Calendar - Item 1: Approval of draft minutes from the committee meetings of March 24 and April 21, 2026. Approved unanimously (4-0). - Item 2: Determination of schedule of outstanding committee items. Approved as presented (4-0). Public Comments & Testimony - Asada Olabala (multiple items) raised concerns about violence prevention strategies, the need for reports on youth intervention programs, racial profiling data on traffic stops, the qualifications of faith-based outreach groups, and the language in vendor contracts regarding “long-standing relationships.” - Rajni Mandal (District 4) argued that civilian oversight should be clearly separated from federal compliance (NSA) administration, noting that the Police Commission is not a named party in the NSA and warning against blurring lines between oversight and management. - Blair Beekman expressed support for community-based approaches like block parent programs and questioned whether the ceasefire lifeline strategy incorporates local neighborhood leadership. - Ann Shanks criticized CPRA’s history on excessive force and racial profiling cases, citing a lack of sustained findings and insufficient communication with complainants. - Millie Cleveland emphasized the need for resources for CPRA, noted delays in implementing a mediation program, and urged the committee to focus on transferring internal affairs functions to CPRA. - David Boatwright (via Zoom) humorously asked whether practicum instructors exist in OPD or would need to be hired. - Other speakers (including Jenks and unnamed) commented on the USC internship program, the need for thorough oversight, and the importance of civilianization. Discussion Items - Item 3 (Grant to Community Initiatives for Ceasefire Lifeline Activations): Deputy Chief Jennifer Lynch (DVP) presented a $100,000 grant to Community Initiatives as fiscal sponsor for Town Nights, funding reactive community activations (food giveaways, healing events) in neighborhoods experiencing gun violence or high conflict. Violence interrupters would provide physical presence and connection to services. Councilmembers discussed event frequency (estimated 20–30 over the year), geographic focus (West and East Oakland), and safety concerns about events themselves. Councilmember Houston highlighted deeper economic issues driving violence. - Item 4 (Bauer Compressors Contract): Deputy Chief Damon Simmons (OFD) requested approval of a five-year, $1 million contract for servicing self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and turnout gear extractors, citing OSHA mandates and a healthy long-term relationship with the vendor. Councilmember Fife noted the vendor’s market share and lack of controversy. - Item 5 (Ellen Curtis and Sons Fire Equipment Contract): Deputy Chief Simmons presented a five-year, $2.5 million contract for specialized firefighting equipment (wildland, structural, aviation). He committed to identifying local Oakland businesses for non-specialized equipment. Councilmember Houston objected to “not returning to council” clauses and requested future updates on local sourcing. - Item 6 (USC School of Social Work MOU): Councilmember Wong introduced a five-year MOU for graduate social work interns to be embedded in OPD, focusing initially on the Special Victims Section. Interns (16–24 hours/week) would assist with crisis response, resource navigation, and grant support. Numerous councilmembers expressed support but requested more details on implementation, supervision, insurance, and legal liability. The item was continued to the next meeting (May 26) to allow time for OPD to provide a draft curriculum and answer legal questions. - Item 7 (OPD Biannual Crime Report): Deputy Chiefs Yue and Rojas presented six-month crime data (Oct 2025–Mar 2026). Overall part-one crimes down 21% citywide; homicides down 28% (36 to 26), robberies down 43%. Area-specific slides showed reductions. Councilmember Five questioned how traffic fatalities are categorized and asked for documentation on how Flock cameras contributed to crime reductions. Councilmember Wong requested inclusion of part-two crimes for future reports. - Item 8 (CPRA Biannual Report): Director Lawson presented mandated statistics: 1,019 complaints received in 2025, 637 completed investigations, 20 sustained allegations against 14 sworn officers. He acknowledged lack of demographic and district data due to inadequate case management systems; a new system is being procured. Councilmembers discussed staffing (9 of 17 positions filled), pay scale challenges, and the need for a task force to transition IAD functions to CPRA. Key Outcomes - Item 3: Motion by Councilmember Brown, seconded by Councilmember Fife, to approve staff recommendations and forward to the May 19 City Council agenda on consent. Passed 4-0. - Item 4: Motion by Councilmember Houston, seconded by Councilmember Brown, to approve and forward. Passed 4-0. - Item 5: Motion by Councilmember Fife, seconded by Chair Wong, to approve and forward with note to return with local business sourcing update. Passed 4-0. - Item 6: Motion by Councilmember Houston to continue the item to the next Public Safety Committee meeting (May 26, 2026) with a request for a draft curriculum and answers to legal questions. Passed 3-1 (Chair Wong dissenting). - Item 7: Motion by Councilmember Houston, seconded by Chair Wong, to receive and file the informational report. Passed 3-0-1 (Councilmember Brown excused). - Item 8: Motion by Chair Wong, seconded by Councilmember Houston, to receive and file with a request for future reports to include IAD-CPRA discrepancy data and year-over-year trends. Passed 3-0-1 (Councilmember Brown excused).

The Life Enrichment Committee of the Oakland City Council met on May 12, 2026, at 4:11 p.m. to consider four agenda items and hear public comments. The committee approved staff recommendations on all items, forwarding them to the May 19, 2026 City Council meeting for consent. Consent Calendar - The draft minutes of the committee meetings on March 3, 2026 and April 21, 2026 were approved on a motion by Councilmember Guile, seconded by Councilmember Wong, with a vote of 4 ayes (Guyo, Wong, Chair Fife; Houston excused). - A determination of schedule outstanding committee items was adopted as amended, removing item 3 (report on the city’s official newspapers) from the pending list without a date specific, and noting Councilmember Guile’s request for a future report on cannabis operations. The motion (by Councilmember Houston, seconded by Councilmember Guyo) passed 4 ayes. Public Comments & Testimony - Ms. Sada urged the committee to give more attention to seniors, persons with disabilities, foster youth, and victims of crime. He expressed concern about the lack of consistent leadership in the Human Services Department and asked for evidence that services for homelessness and Head Start are on task. - Blair Beekman supported the Digital Lift MOU, noting the importance of teaching responsible internet use to seniors and young people to reduce fear. He also cautioned about the end of COVID-era funding and the need for sustainability. - David Boatwright raised concerns about federal funding sustainability, questioned eligibility criteria that may prioritize non‑citizens, and argued that lawful residents should have first priority for city health services. - Blair Beekman (on Zoom) reiterated support for the Cal AIM project and urged continued efforts to sustain social services as pandemic funding ends. - During the OFCY evaluation item, Ms. Sada recommended incorporating life‑skills training (teamwork, anger management, critical thinking) and questioned how evaluations capture the experience of very young children. Discussion Items - Item 3 – Digital Lift MOU – Jesse Cutter (Human Services Department) presented a $67,500 one‑year agreement with Digital Lift to provide digital literacy training at Oakland Senior Centers (basic and beyond‑basic classes in English and Mandarin, each with 40 participants per cohort). Councilmember Houston asked about past completion rates; staff noted 98 unique learners in April 2025 but only 27 completed the series. The committee ensured post‑evaluation data would be collected. The item was forwarded to City Council on consent. - Item 4 – Cal AIM Ready Oakland Project – Anna Bagtus (Human Services Manager) presented a resolution to accept a $1,351,113.75 grant from the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), requiring a 50% local match of $675,556.75 (already substantially met through existing staff). The project will establish enhanced care management and community supports for high‑need Medi‑Cal residents (seniors at risk of institutionalization, unhoused adults 25+, complex‑needs individuals). Staff emphasized that the infrastructure will position Oakland to eventually contract directly with managed care plans (e.g., Kaiser, Alameda Alliance) for sustainable per‑member reimbursement ($400+/month/client). Councilmember Wong asked about coordination with Alameda County and expansion to other city departments; staff confirmed ongoing work with the county on data sharing and care coordination. The item was forwarded to City Council on consent. - Item 5 – Oakland Fund for Children and Youth (OFCY) FY 24‑25 Evaluation – Robin Love and Katie Kramer (Bridging Group) presented the independent annual evaluation. Key data: $18.8 million funded 145 programs; 20,801 unduplicated children/youth served, of whom 93% were from priority populations; over 4 million hours of service provided (109% of projected); 126% of projected participants served. The evaluation introduced a results‑based accountability framework and leveraged 9,400 participant surveys (including 3,000 from OUSD). Outcomes showed positive gains in academic preparation, employment (1,400 youth placed in paid internships at $15/hour average wage), parent engagement, and belonging/safety. Councilmember Houston requested a list of District 7 funded organizations; staff agreed to provide it. Councilmember Guile asked about safety resources for youth and coordination with schools; staff noted deeper investments in place‑based safety and life‑skills programming in the upcoming grant cycle. The item was forwarded to City Council on consent. Key Outcomes - Votes: All four agenda items were approved unanimously (4‑0) and forwarded to the May 19, 2026 City Council meeting as consent items. - Directives: - Councilmember Guile will work with policy staff to bring an informational report on cannabis operations to the Rules Committee. - Human Services staff will provide Councilmember Houston with a list of OFCY‑funded organizations in District 7. - Staff will continue to refine evaluation methods (including site visits, interactive activities for younger children) and track demographics of sub‑populations (foster youth, homeless youth, commercially sexually exploited youth). - Sustainability planning: The Cal AIM project aims to transition from time‑limited grant funding to ongoing reimbursement from managed care plans, with certified Medi‑Cal provider status expected within months.