Oakland voters face critical choices. This Empower Oakland Voter Guide highlights seven key issues – from public safety to schools – demanding urgent action and informed decisions. Understand the challenges and empower your vote.
1. Public Safety Crisis
Oakland’s public safety is in crisis. A crime rate 5x the national average and the fewest police per crime in major US cities highlight the failure of current approaches. Empower Oakland voters to demand urgent action: increase police staffing, improve 911 response, and implement crime prevention while ensuring accountability.
2. Tackling the Homelessness Emergency
Homelessness in Oakland is spiraling, impacting public spaces citywide. Current city leadership has not delivered effective solutions. This Empower Oakland voter guide urges consideration of compassionate and practical measures to address homelessness, ensuring no one is forced to live on the streets when solutions are available.
3. Housing for Every Oaklander
Oakland’s housing shortage fuels displacement and homelessness. To maintain Oakland’s accessibility and vibrancy for all, rapid housing supply increases are essential. Empower Oakland voters to advocate for zoning reforms and streamlined permitting to build more housing for every Oaklander.
4. Restoring Trust & Government Accountability
Public trust in Oakland’s government is eroded by corruption and policy missteps. To rebuild faith, Oakland needs leaders committed to transparency and accountability. This voter guide emphasizes the need to empower Oakland voters to demand governance reforms for better public service.
5. Strengthening Oakland’s Economy & Small Businesses
Oakland businesses struggle with crime, blight, and excessive regulations. Leadership is needed to create a safer environment and reduce bureaucratic burdens. Empower Oakland voters to support policies that foster economic growth and opportunity by actively supporting local businesses.
6. Cleaning Up Blight & Improving Street Safety
Oakland streets are unsafe, with high pedestrian and cyclist fatalities. Blight and illegal dumping are widespread issues. Oakland voters should empower leaders who prioritize safer street designs, transit improvements, and clean public spaces for all Oakland residents.
7. Investing in High-Quality Public Schools
Quality education, from job training to advanced programs, is crucial. Oakland voters must empower leaders to address financial instability and operational issues within OUSD, ensuring investment in high-quality public schools for Oakland’s future.
