Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
Nicolas Heidorn, the executive director of Oakland's Public Ethics Commission, is set to leave his position in July, prompting a recruitment process for his successor. The commission, which oversees campaign finance and government ethics, faces challenges such as a significant backlog of cases and resource limitations. Heidorn emphasized the need for dedicated funding and staffing to effectively carry out its responsibilities.
Oakland Public Works is set to celebrate Earth Day on April 19, 2025, with a series of community-focused activities aimed at promoting environmental stewardship. This event will include tree planting initiatives and opportunities for local residents to engage in sustainable practices, fostering a sense of community and environmental responsibility. The celebration aligns with the city's ongoing commitment to sustainability and improving the natural environment.
The City of Oakland Public Ethics Commission is actively seeking a new Executive Director to lead its efforts in promoting government ethics and transparency. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership skills, a commitment to public service, and experience in enforcing ethics laws. Applications are open until June 2, 2025, inviting qualified individuals to contribute to a culture of integrity in Oakland's governance.
The Oakland Police Department is urging residents to report illegal drug activity through a confidential hotline. This initiative aims to enhance community safety and encourage public involvement in combating crime. By sharing information, citizens can contribute to a safer Oakland.
The Oakland Education Association is conducting a vote among its members to authorize a one-day strike on May 1, aimed at protesting unfair labor practices related to recent budget cuts. The union alleges that the Oakland Unified School District has not been transparent regarding financial information necessary for negotiations. The potential strike coincides with International Workers' Day and reflects ongoing tensions between the union and district leadership.
Spinning Dough, a unique pizzeria in West Oakland known for its unconventional toppings like ube and longanisa, will close its doors on April 20 after eight years in business. Owner Jeff Chin announced the closure on social media, expressing gratitude for the support received throughout the years. This marks a bittersweet end for a restaurant that has made a significant impact on the local food scene.
Daytrip, a popular fermentation-forward restaurant in Oakland, has closed its doors, making way for a new family-oriented concept named Daytrip Counter. Set to open on May 7, 2025, the new establishment will focus on affordable, high-quality meals, particularly featuring spit-roasted chicken and a revamped menu designed for a casual dining experience. Owners Finn Stern and Stella Dennig are committed to maintaining a living wage for employees while implementing a counter-service model to enhance sustainability.
Barbara Lee has taken a commanding lead in the Oakland mayoral race following the latest ballot counts, surpassing Loren Taylor, who initially led. With over 50% of the first-choice votes and 52.7% after ranked-choice redistribution, Lee's victory seems imminent. Additionally, Charlene Wang appears to be winning D2 City Council, and Measure A is expected to pass.
The Oakland Police Department (OPD) made an arrest related to illegal drug activity, thanks to community tips. On April 10, 2025, officers seized a significant amount of marijuana, a firearm, and cash during the operation. OPD encourages continued community involvement in reporting illegal activities to enhance public safety.
The Oakland City Council has postponed the sale of the city's stake in the Coliseum, which was originally part of a $125 million deal with the African American Sports and Entertainment Group (AASEG). This decision aligns with the pending sale by Alameda County, which is crucial for the transaction's completion. Delays have been attributed to various factors, including ongoing negotiations and a lawsuit challenging the sale.