Oakland struggles with significant governance problems, rooted in its city charter that weakens the mayor's power and creates conflicts among city officials. A new initiative, led by former City Administrator Steven Falk, proposes to amend the city’s charter, reverting to a council-manager system where the mayor has legislative voting rights. This change aims to enhance accountability and clarity in city leadership roles, which residents feel are currently dysfunctional. Recent surveys indicate low satisfaction with local government, highlighting an urgent need for reform.
Falk's group is angling to place a measure on the ballot in 2026 that would amend the city charter and fundamentally change the roles of these different city leaders.
Falk said switching to this 'council-manager' model of governance would clearly define roles and responsibilities in city leadership, helping Oakland operate more effectively and transparently.
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