Oakland Mayor-elect Barbara Lee shares plan for her first 100 days

Barbara Lee won the special mayoral election in Oakland, aiming to unify the city amid ongoing budgetary and crime challenges. Her 100-Day plan addresses critical issues such as public safety and homelessness, focusing on collaboration with stakeholders rather than committing to numerical targets. Key initiatives include engaging local business leaders and conducting audits of city spending to ensure effective use of public funds. Previous mayors, including Sheng Thao, struggled to fulfill ambitious promises related to crime reduction and police staffing, often facing rising crime rates. Thao’s administration experienced challenges, including a spike in violence, despite efforts to reorganize violence prevention programs.

Lee's plan is designed to create a framework for accountability, allowing Oakland residents to track the administration's progress. The lack of specific numeric goals distinguishes her approach from past administrations. Lee's election and plan may signal a shift toward more community-driven governance in Oakland.