Fired Oakland finance official alleges retaliation

Sherry Denham-Jackson, the former revenue and tax administrator for Oakland, filed a legal claim against the city alleging discrimination, harassment, and retaliation following her November termination. Denham-Jackson is seeking $10 million in damages, contending her firing was illegal and linked to her whistleblower status concerning fraudulent charges imposed on residents. Before her dismissal, over 30 employees in her department signed a petition expressing a lack of confidence in her management skills, which they claimed hindered the city's revenue collection efforts. Denham-Jackson further alleges religious discrimination, stating that city council meetings scheduled on Tuesday evenings prevented her from attending essential religious services. She requested accommodations that went unanswered, leading to a hostile work environment.

The city attorney is reviewing her claim and preparing a response. This situation underscores the challenges Oakland faces amid a multimillion-dollar budget deficit and internal management disputes. Denham-Jackson's legal history includes a prior settlement with the San Francisco Unified School District over similar allegations.