Oakland Weighs $108,000 Pay Increases For Councilmembers Despite Budget And Homelessness Crises

Despite struggling with homelessness, crime, illegal dumping and a persistent budget deficit, Oakland could soon hand its city councilmembers pay and benefits increases worth as much as $108,000 annually under a ballot measure supported by Mayor Barbara Lee, according to the NY Post.

Measure EE would eliminate existing limits on council raises and allow the city’s Public Ethics Commission to determine compensation based on salaries in other California jurisdictions, without a specified cap.

The Post writes that Oakland’s eight councilmembers currently receive approximately $148,500 annually in salary and benefits. According to an Oakland Report analysis, that figure could rise to roughly $256,500 per member. The city auditor estimates the changes could increase total annual council compensation costs by as much as $867,000.

Supporters argue the measure would improve accountability and make public office more accessible to residents without substantial personal wealth. However, Oakland Report found that campaign materials have largely avoided mentioning the potential pay increases.

The proposal arrives amid significant financial difficulties. After voters rejected a tax measure expected to generate $34 million annually, officials warned of possible hiring freezes and the elimination of approximately 190 homeless shelter beds.

Oakland’s homeless population has roughly doubled since 2015 to 4,410 people, despite declining over the past two years. Meanwhile, city workers removed more than 1,700 tons of illegally dumped material during August and September alone.

City Hall is also confronting a corruption scandal involving former Mayor Sheng Thao and three others, who are on trial over allegations of political favors and improper payments involving a city recycling contractor. All four have pleaded not guilty.

Beyond compensation, Measure EE would expand the mayor’s authority over municipal departments, legislation and spending while granting councilmembers additional oversight resources. 

The entire package is projected to cost Oakland another $2 million to $2.6 million in its first year, adding to the financial burden of a city already struggling to balance its books.