The fight over the future of Oaklands 45 million security contract continues

Oakland City Council has delayed awarding a $45 million security contract, evaluating proposals from Allied Universal Security Services and Marina Security Services. Both companies sought to collaborate with Diligence Security Group, a local Black-owned business. A city spokesman noted staff are collaborating with the legal team to outline future steps, and a recommendation is expected in late September. In the interim, ABC Security Service's contract has been extended, despite concerns about its owner's ties to a corruption investigation. Councilmember Charlene Wang emphasized the importance of surfacing controversies related to the potential awardees.

The council's decision follows a report from the Department of Public Works that recommended Allied, raising questions about the evaluation process. The conflict highlights a significant divide between city staff and councilmembers over contract allocation. This ongoing debate underscores the challenges of balancing local business support with transparency in city contracts.