Mayor Barbara Lee entered her first 100 days facing demands to address crime, illegal dumping, homelessness, and the city's budget crisis. She must also navigate federal threats while healing a deeply divided city with 16 months left in her term. Her approach emphasizes methodical rebuilding of trust in city government and unity across Oakland's geographic and political divides. Officials are preparing responses to potential ICE raids and National Guard deployment. Public safety strategies prioritize reducing crime, and some measures have declined. Local initiatives include converting a Temescal motel into affordable housing and Oakland's second Michelin-starred restaurant. Fire department leaders report staffing shortages and mental health concerns. A nonprofit local news outlet is experimenting with a 10-episode weekly series and seeking resident support.
Mayor Barbara Lee just hit her first 100 days in office, facing enormous expectations from residents who want immediate solutions to crime, illegal dumping, homelessness, and Oakland's budget crisis. She also has to navigate federal threats from President Trump while working to heal a deeply divided city-and she has just 16 months left in her term. Host Tasneem Raja talks with City Hall reporters Eli Wolfe and Natalie Orenstein about their extensive interview with Mayor Lee.
Plus: Oakland's second-ever Michelin starred restaurant, a Temescal motel transforming into affordable housing, and an in-depth interview with Oakland's fire chief about staffing challenges and mental health in the department. Lastly, arts reporter Azucena Rasilla closes with weekend activities including the big Mexico vs. Japan soccer match at the Coliseum, the Black Liberation Walking Tour, the Oakland Magic Circle's 100th anniversary gala, and a "Home Alone" screening with Macauley Culkin.
We can't cover Oakland - and produce this podcast! - without your help It's the seventh episode! We're experimenting with 10 episodes of a new weekly news show. This is a pilot-if we can keep this going, we will! The Oaklandside is independent, nonprofit, and supported by everyday residents. Every dollar helps us file public records requests, interview sources, crunch data, and more.
Collection
[
|
...
]