Your trusted source for local Oakland, CA news, updated daily with the most important stories from your community.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.