Want more affordable housing? Public land that serves the public good? Decisions about what Oakland looks like and who is welcomed here are largely made by the Planning Commission – which is already stacked with corporate developers and real estate specialists. Two seats are open in May and it’s crucial that the Mayor and City Council HEAR FROM YOU NOW that those seats go to grassroots, values-based leaders.

Join us for phone banks Friday 4/28 11-1, and Wed 5/3 11-1 at our office downtown to help get community representation on our Planning Commission. And contact the Mayor and your Councilmember today (see details below). It’s time for everyone to speak out in support of community and racial-justice representation on decisions about housing and development in the Town!

Oakland is in the midst of a historic affordable housing crisis, yet we continue to see the construction of 1,000s of luxury housing units, and only a handful of affordable housing units. Enough is enough. It’s time to appoint grassroots leaders who will give voice to the community on planning decisions. If not, there will be no more Oakland as we know it as longtime residents are pushed out to make room for the rich and hip.

With two seats opening up on the commission, we are calling on the Mayor and Councilmembers to use this as an opportunity to lead with values of authentic democracy, accountable government and transformational decision making. Join us during your lunch break in contacting voters and Councilmembers to demand that community voice has a strong seat at the table. If you can’t make it to the phonebank, please consider signing this petition from our partners from Communities for Equitable Development in Oakland.

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What to say: “I am your constituent and I want a strong voice for community on the Planning Commission. I want you to ensure the re-appoint of Jahmese Myres to a full second term.” (More details about Jahmese below)

Unsure who your Councilmember is? Find your Councilmember here.

Mayor Libby Schaaf – 510-238-3141
Councilmember At-Large Rebecca Kaplan – 510-238-7082
District 1 Councilmember Dan Kalb – 510-238-7001
District 2 Councilmember Abel Guillen – 510-238-7002
District 3 Councilmember Lynette Gibson McElhaney – 510-238-7003
District 4 Councilmember Annie Campbell Washington – 510-238-7004
District 5 Councilmember Noel Gallo – 510-238-7005
District 6 Councilmember Desley Brooks – 510-238-7006
District 7 Councilmember Larry Reid – 510-238-7007

More about Jahmese Myres’ experience and commitment to our community:

Jahmese has already served on the Planning Commission for 3 years during which she has spoken out in support of more affordable housing and community benefits, and against displacement.
Jahmese is the only Commissioner that lives in the flatlands of Oakland, and the only Commissioner that lives in East Oakland.
Jahmese works for a community organization that fights for workers’ rights and economic justice.
Jahmese is the only woman of color on the Commission.