Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
BART has restored systemwide train service after a significant shutdown caused by a computer networking issue and a train control system malfunction. The service interruption, which began early in the morning, affected all 50 stations, leaving commuters to seek alternative transportation.
Oakland will pay $1 million to settle a lawsuit filed by former Department of Violence Prevention employee Candace Reese Walters, who accused the city of discrimination and sexual harassment. The City Council approved the settlement without admitting liability, amid allegations that a former DVP chief engaged in inappropriate conduct.
Oakland restaurant Pierre Pierre faces eviction after its landlord issued a 3-day notice due to over a year of unpaid rent. Co-owner Cleashaun Hill, still reeling from a recent shooting that injured two customers, initiated a GoFundMe campaign to raise $50,000 for relocation and repairs. The landlord stated the eviction notice was unrelated to the shooting incident.
Oakland Mayor-elect Barbara Lee appointed Miya Saika Chen as her chief of staff ahead of her swearing-in on May 20. Chen brings 20 years of government experience and previously led initiatives that generated $124 million in funding for local projects.
Oakland's 2025 mayoral race highlighted a divide between voters in the hills and flatlands, with Barbara Lee winning the flatlands and Loren Taylor dominating the hills. Voter motivations varied, with some prioritizing public safety and financial accountability, while others supported Lee's progressive vision. The divide reflects deeper issues related to diversity, safety, and socio-economic factors within the city.
Three Oakland Police officers saved a man's life after he collapsed in a parking lot following an Oakland Roots soccer game. Officers M. Cooper, M. Everett, and H. Jimenez performed chest compressions for over seven minutes, aided by a community nurse, until medical personnel arrived. Their swift actions underscore the critical role of first responders and community collaboration during emergencies.
Crixa Cakes in Berkeley will close after 25 years of operation, with its last day on May 10. Sushi California, a local favorite for 38 years, will also shut down, while Teta Nahla will transition to catering after just seven months of service.
Oakland settled a lawsuit for $207,812 with the Alameda County Taxpayers’ Association regarding alleged election rule violations during the 2022 mayoral election. The city will enhance records retention and election procedures but did not admit any wrongdoing. Attorney Marleen Sacks expressed satisfaction with the outcome, despite several demands being dismissed by the court.
Oakland’s budget proposal allocates $33.6 million for police overtime in the upcoming fiscal year, despite ongoing criticism regarding management of overtime costs. City officials assert that such funding is essential for maintaining public safety, but unions warn that unchecked spending could lead to cuts in other city services.
Violence prevention groups in Oakland urged the Trump administration to restore $811 million in federal funding for community programs. Leaders from organizations like Youth Alive highlighted the life-threatening consequences of funding cuts, which have already impacted their ability to serve gun violence survivors.