Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
The federal government officially shut down at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday after Congress failed to pass a funding bill. The shutdown impacts over 187,000 federal workers in California, with many families facing financial uncertainty. Local social services may continue, but programs requiring federal oversight could be disrupted.
A parking ticket scam has targeted drivers in Uptown Oakland, tricking some into paying fake citations. The latest episode of the Oaklandside 510 podcast discusses this issue alongside earthquake preparedness, police policy changes, and infrastructure upgrades in East Oakland. Host Tasneem Raja aims to raise the final $5,000 of a $15,000 fundraising goal to sustain the podcast.
Oakland's MACRO program received a $1 million state grant to enhance non-emergency response services. Mayor Barbara Lee emphasized the funding's role in promoting a community-centered approach to public safety. The program aims to connect residents with medical, mental health, and social services, reducing reliance on police.
Young musicians from Oakland, including August Lee Stevens, B DeVeaux, and Naima Nascimento, are rehearsing for the upcoming "Oakland Grown: Student Art & Music Festival" on October 18. The trio is part of Oakland Rising, a collective formed to support emerging artists, which has gained recognition after performances at notable venues, including the Kennedy Center.
Community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs in the East Bay provide residents with fresh, locally-sourced food options. Subscriptions allow consumers to support local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen while diversifying their diets. The programs offer a range of products, from heirloom tomatoes to halibut.
Mario Juarez sought $225,000 in city grants while entangled in an FBI investigation of public corruption in Oakland. Juarez, linked to a bribery scheme involving former mayor Sheng Thao, ultimately failed in his grant applications, raising concerns among city staff. Neither Juarez nor the city official involved, Larry Gallegos, faces charges related to these actions.
Oakland's Bicyclist and Pedestrian Advisory Commission urged city officials to develop a comprehensive network of safe, car-free greenways linking neighborhoods. This initiative aims to enhance walkability and cycling safety, particularly in East Oakland, where traffic fatalities are prevalent. The city is currently reviewing input for its General Plan update, expected to be finalized by 2027.
A 63-year-old cyclist, Hector Jose Ortega, died after colliding with a speeding SUV in East Oakland on Friday. Witnesses reported that both the cyclist and the SUV were traveling at high speeds when the accident occurred at the intersection of Miller Avenue and East 16th Street. This intersection has a history of dangerous collisions, prompting community concerns over road safety.
Oakland leaders may waive local laws to award a $4 million asphalt contract to Martin Marietta Materials, despite the company’s non-compliance with sanctuary city regulations. City officials noted that alternatives for asphalt production are limited, complicating the paving plan aimed at repairing over 300 miles of streets by 2027.
James Jacobs operates ASAP Squatter Removal, a company that helps property owners evict squatters in the Bay Area. Despite the lack of police involvement in tenancy disputes, Jacobs uses unconventional methods to remove unauthorized residents, highlighting a growing industry amid the region's housing crisis. The existence of such services reflects the intense pressures of Oakland's housing landscape, where homelessness and vacant properties coexist.