Oakland billboard deal could help close the citys budget gap

The Oakland City Council's Community and Economic Development Committee advanced a proposal to allow Becker Boards to construct five new billboards in exchange for removing 11 existing ones. If approved by the full council on June 17, the contract could bring in up to $2. 3 million upfront and $750,000 annually over 31 years, addressing a projected $265 million budget deficit. Councilmember Noel Gallo endorsed the deal, emphasizing the positive impact of Becker's previous agreements. Despite this, competitors like Clear Channel expressed concerns about potential lawsuits and the feasibility of Becker's commitments, claiming the billboard market is oversaturated.

Becker’s director of land development countered these claims, asserting the company’s ability to remove existing signs. The proposal includes alternative locations for the new billboards but lacks a specific list of signs to be removed. Community members, many beneficiaries of previous agreements, rallied in support, anticipating free advertising opportunities. The deal’s approval hinges on the full council's vote, reflecting broader fiscal challenges faced by the city.