Development News for San Leandro, California

Council Meeting Addresses Harassment Allegations, Victim Blaming, and Accountability at City Hall

During the council meeting, several speakers addressed issues of harassment, gender discrimination, and accountability within City Hall. Gloria Strom and Jack Strong specifically referenced an independent investigation report detailing harassment and retaliation against women, noting that over half a million dollars in taxpayer funds were spent on lawsuits and investigations due to "shameful actions." They called for clear statements that harassment is unacceptable, concrete steps to ensure safety, and accountability from leadership. Councilmember Bowen shared her personal experience as a victim of assault and subsequent victim-blaming and character assassination, including statements made by Councilmember Victor Aguilar that she described as "categorically false." She emphasized the importance of consent, accountability, and creating a community where survivors feel believed and safe, and where women are encouraged to serve in elected office. Councilmember Victor Aguilar later stated his support for the Lake Chabot Road urgency, referencing lives lost in fires and earthquakes as a reason for prioritizing safety.

City Commended for Whale Carcass Management; Call for Continued Rent Stabilization Efforts

During public comment, Chris Urban Res Life Longoria acknowledged the Ohlone people and the decomposition of a whale carcass on the shoreline, commending the city's handling of the situation and providing updates. They expressed hope that the city would document the process for future encounters due to climate change. Additionally, they acknowledged graduating students and expressed gratitude for progress on rent stabilization, urging continued efforts. Melissa Wong inquired about the status of a financial system upgrade recommended by a budget task force five years prior, seeking updates.

Council Members Share Updates on Community Events, Green Building, Housing, Public Safety, and City Initiatives

Vice Mayor Viveros Walton shared her attendance at a U.S. Green Building Council conference, where she gained ideas for sustainable practices that she plans to discuss further with colleagues. She expressed excitement for the upcoming Cherry Festival, noting her float will be pride-themed, celebrating both San Leandro and the LGBTQIA+ community. She also attended an affordable housing tour and policy conversation hosted by the Partnership for the Bay Future, which focused on diverse housing needs and policy development. Councilmember Simon recognized the Alameda County Fire Department and Station Engine 13 for their service, noting the station's seismic and health issues and the need for upgrades. Mayor Gonzalez reported on various community events and city initiatives, including the opening of the Leap Center, the city's response to a deceased whale, an art exhibition on belonging, the introduction of a new fire engine, Memorial Day services, the Kiwanis Project Literacy initiative, and celebrations for dual immersion schools. He also mentioned his appointment as president of the Alameda Mayors Conference. Councilmember Bowen requested future agenda items including a home hardening ordinance, a food service packaging reduction ordinance, a resolution for the MacArthur Roundabout, and an amendment to reduce solicitor hours. She also shared information about a free diaper and wipe distribution event and the summer reading program, highlighted the "Liberando Nuestra Esvosis" organization serving Latina girls, and noted a $4 million carve-out for Safe Routes to Schools programs from the ACTC budget. Councilmember James Aguilar praised the HR team's work on transitioning to Workday and recognized Pride Month. He also highlighted a positive ride-along experience with SLPD.

San Leandro Approves SB1 Funding for Street Projects, Including Lake Chabot Road Repairs

The City Council discussed and approved funding for various street maintenance and repair projects through Senate Bill 1 (SB1) funds and other sources. Specifically, item 5e focused on Senate Bill 1 funds, which allocate approximately $2.5 million to San Leandro. The discussion highlighted the Lake Chabot Road Stabilization Repair Phase 1, which will be funded by a Federal Highway Administration grant ($2.09 million) and Local Capital Improvement Program funds, including SB1 funds ($720,000), for a total of $2.8 million. Other projects mentioned include annual street sealing and the MacArthur Superior Roundabout project. There was also discussion regarding 19 civil engineering firms being contracted for consulting services not to exceed $1.5 million per firm over three years, with a total cap of $1.5 million overall for these agreements.