Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
A 100-foot sailboat sank in the Oakland Estuary on Sunday, raising concerns about potential fuel leaks. The Alameda Fire Department and Coast Guard responded swiftly to stabilize the vessel and prevent environmental hazards. The cause of the sinking remains under investigation.
Oakland's interim mayor Kevin Jenkins faced significant challenges, including budget constraints and a public safety crisis, during his five-month tenure. He successfully introduced a budget addressing a $265 million shortfall while prioritizing safety programs. Jenkins returned to his councilmember role after Barbara Lee was sworn in as the new mayor.
The East Bay Regional Park District, the largest in the U.S. at 126,000 acres, seeks community input for a new district plan to address evolving climate and demographic challenges. General Manager Sabrina Landreth emphasizes the plan as a strategic roadmap to guide management and prioritization of resources over the next century.
El Mono has opened a new location in Berkeley, offering casual Peruvian dishes like lomo saltado and ceviche. Oken, a contemporary Asian-American restaurant, has debuted in Oakland, featuring unique Korean and Japanese fusion dishes. Sobo Ramen also celebrates its soft opening in Berkeley, showcasing a variety of ramen options.
A large sailboat sank in the Oakland Estuary near Blanding Avenue on Sunday night. The Alameda Fire Department deployed firefighters and a fireboat to protect nearby vessels and prevent oil spread, confirming no one was aboard during the incident. The cause of the sinking remains unknown.
Five years after George Floyd's murder, Oakland's Mobile Assistance Community Responders of Oakland (MACRO) program addresses non-violent emergencies, expanding its reach to improve community safety. Staffed by a team of 28 trained in crisis response, MACRO aims to reduce the burden on Oakland's 911 system, responding to 2,500 incidents in 2024 alone.
The Oakland Police Department's Alcohol Beverage Action Team shut down an illegal marijuana operation on May 15, 2025, seizing various contraband products. The business operated without necessary licenses, prompting a citation for one individual. Authorities will refer the case for potential criminal and civil charges.
Oakland's mayoral responsibilities have come under scrutiny following the recall of Sheng Thao and the election of Barbara Lee. Many voters hold misconceptions about the job description and expectations of the mayor's office. The article highlights the gap between public perception and the actual duties of the role.
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.
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.