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Oakland officials are promoting a ballot measure that would temporarily reduce taxes for new businesses of all sizes. The proposal aims to stimulate local economic growth and support small business development in the city.
Parents dropping off children at Hoover Elementary in West Oakland expressed anxiety after ICE agents conducted an operation nearby, prompting fears of immigration enforcement. While some felt intimidated, others remained defiant, insisting that their presence at school would not be deterred. Community volunteers distributed information on identifying ICE vehicles to support anxious families.
Violence interrupters at Skyline High School in Oakland responded to a shooting incident last week, aiming to prevent retaliation and further violence. However, budget cuts threaten the continuation of their violence prevention program, which has successfully mediated over 60 conflicts this year alone.
Oakland officials are negotiating with Costco and Deca Companies to develop a new store at the former Oakland Army Base. The plan, introduced by Councilmember Carroll Fife, could enhance the local economy, which has faced retail losses. A City Council discussion is expected in December.
Oakland's City Council Public Safety Committee rejected a $2.25 million contract with Flock Safety to manage surveillance cameras, as councilmembers raised concerns over data privacy and the company's trustworthiness. The proposal faced strong public opposition, particularly regarding Flock's history of sharing data with federal agencies. Councilmember Carroll Fife called for a complete rejection of the deal, prompting cheers from attendees.
Coach John Beam, a beloved figure in Oakland education and athletics, was shot and killed on the Laney College campus. His legacy, marked by decades of dedication to students, gained national attention posthumously through his appearance in the Netflix series "Last Chance U." The irony of his murder by a person he never had a chance to help underscores the tragic loss for the community.
An Oakland elementary school and preschool went on lockdown Wednesday due to confirmed reports of ICE activity nearby. Teachers and community members gathered outside to support families and discourage federal immigration enforcement. Oakland officials emphasized that the city's residents will not be intimidated by aggressive immigration policies.
Cedric Irving Jr. will remain in custody without bail after being charged with the murder of Laney College football coach John Beam. Concerns regarding Irving's mental health surfaced when he claimed Beam practiced "witchcraft" on him, suggesting potential mental health issues. His next court appearance is set for December 16.
Hundreds of students at Skyline High School in Oakland staged a walkout to protest gun violence and demand safer school conditions. The protest followed a recent shooting incident on campus, which resulted in lockdowns and heightened concerns about student safety. Activists called for better protection and support from school administration.
Laney College Athletic Director John Beam raised concerns about campus security just a day before he was shot and killed in Oakland. Witnesses reported Beam's frustrations over inadequate security measures and the limited capabilities of private security guards. His death has prompted students to advocate for improved safety measures on campus.