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The City of Oakland has successfully closed a major homeless encampment on East 12th Street, relocating 70 residents to the Mandela House, a program funded by the California Encampment Resolution Fund. Mayor Barbara Lee emphasized the city's commitment to providing compassionate support and services for vulnerable residents during the transition.
Proposed federal cuts to Medicaid and food stamps threaten low-income residents in Alameda County, with the House passing a spending bill that includes $267 billion in cuts to SNAP over the next decade. Local organizations warn that these changes could drastically impact health and food security for vulnerable populations, particularly families and children.
High school seniors at Cristo Rey de la Salle East Bay High School in Oakland celebrated their acceptance to four-year universities, marking a milestone as many are the first in their families to graduate. Students shared their aspirations and the significance of their accomplishments for their families, with a strong emphasis on education as a path to change.
Oakland Police Chief Floyd Mitchell proposed changes to the department's pursuit policy, seeking to rescind a 2022 rule that restricts high-speed chases. Residents supported the proposal at a recent police commission meeting, although some expressed disappointment over a lack of modifications for pursuits related to property crimes. The commission will consider three options regarding the policy before submitting a decision to the city council.
An Amber Alert was deactivated after a 2-year-old girl from Oakland was found safe. Her biological parents allegedly assaulted her grandmother with a gun and knife before taking her, but authorities confirmed the grandmother is expected to recover. The California Highway Patrol did not disclose details about the girl's location or any arrests.
Citizen scientists express concern over declining populations of black-crowned night herons in Oakland due to urban development and habitat disruption. While local birding groups acknowledge these worries, they emphasize the birds' resilience and the importance of community support for conservation efforts.
Barbara Lee was sworn in as Oakland's first Black woman mayor on May 20, 2025. Her inaugural address highlighted the city's challenges, including a $140 million structural deficit, and emphasized her commitment to inclusivity and transparency. Lee aims to engage diverse community voices in addressing key city issues.
Barbara Lee was sworn in as Oakland’s 52nd Mayor today, vowing to lead with transparency and accountability. In her inaugural remarks, she emphasized a commitment to create opportunities for youth and address the city's budget crisis through collaboration and investment.
Over 100 small businesses in Oakland received grants totaling $2.2 million from the East Bay Community Foundation to support their growth and sustainability. The funding aims to help businesses recover from pandemic-related challenges, with each receiving between $5,000 to $25,000 based on need. This initiative prioritizes equity, focusing on communities most affected by disinvestment.
Oakland sports officials will gather on June 12 for a community discussion at the New Parkway Theater, featuring Oakland Ballers General Manager Laura Geist, Oakland Roots co-founder Tommy Hodul, and Oakland Girls Softball League President Amanda Wentworth. The event aims to highlight the revitalization of local sports and community engagement, with live music and merchandise giveaways.