Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A majority of small business leaders, 80%, are integrating artificial intelligence into their strategies, with nearly half expressing cautious optimism about its impact. AI tools enhance efficiency, automate customer service, and facilitate data analysis, proving essential for competitiveness in a digital landscape. As small businesses prioritize technology investments, they aim to streamline operations and foster growth.
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.
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.
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’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.
President Trump issued an executive order targeting sanctuary cities, demanding a list of jurisdictions he claims violate federal immigration laws. Local leaders, such as Alameda County Supervisor Nikki Fortunato Bas, criticize the order as a scare tactic and emphasize the constitutional validity of sanctuary policies. The move threatens federal funding essential for local services in Oakland and Alameda County.
Oakland's Head Start program faces uncertainty after the sudden removal of director Diveena Cooppan and another staff member on April 25. Advocates worry that this leadership change could jeopardize the federally funded program, which serves low-income families and has a budget of approximately $13.5 million.