May 20, 2025 Story by: Editor
Barbara Lee was officially sworn in today as the Mayor of Oakland, marking a historic moment as she becomes the first Black woman to hold the city’s highest office.
In her inaugural address at City Hall, Lee pledged to usher in a “new era” for Oakland, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and community engagement.
“We are a city of doers, dreamers, entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators,” Lee declared to a packed room of supporters and city officials. “Together, we’re going to do the hard work to put Oakland back on the right track.”
Lee’s ascension to the mayoralty follows the recall and federal indictment of former Mayor Sheng Thao, who faced bribery charges earlier this year. The city has since grappled with a significant fiscal deficit, projected at $54 million as of May, with ongoing annual shortfalls around $140 million. Key budget strains include reliance on one-time funds, lower tax revenue, and spending overruns, particularly in the police department.
In response, Lee expressed support for a proposed parcel tax in 2026 aimed at preserving essential services. She also unveiled a 10-point plan for her first 100 days, focusing on crime reduction, streamlined permitting, and public-private partnerships. “There is no time to waste,” she asserted. “Oaklanders deserve transparency, accountability, and results starting now.”
Highlighting her family’s civil rights legacy, Lee took her oath using a Bible that belonged to her grandfather, the first Black letter carrier in El Paso, Texas. She recounted her family’s experiences with segregation and discrimination, underscoring her commitment to equity and community empowerment.
Also sworn in was Charlene Wang, the newly elected councilmember for District 2, encompassing areas like San Antonio, Lake Merritt, Chinatown, and Jack London Square. Wang echoed Lee’s call for unity amid financial pressures and a housing crisis, stating, “Oakland doesn’t fold under pressure; it gets sharper, it gets stronger.”
Lee’s inauguration signals a renewed focus on inclusive governance and community-driven solutions as Oakland navigates its complex challenges.
Source: San Francisco Chronicle
