Rooted in budget shortfalls

Oakland finance directors hints that vacant positions need to be eliminated; Hayward begins negotiations with labor groups, contracts expire on June 30

CITY NEWS

OAKLAND

—TAXING NEWS—Oakland is staring down a potential $130 million budget shortfall, according to an estimate offered by the city’s finance department last November.

—The projected shortfall follows a $360 million two-year budget gap last year.

—The culprit for the large shortfall was an overly optimistic estimate last year in Real Estate Transfer Taxes.

—The city’s finance department is scheduled to offer new data for the third quarter on May 17.

—Oakland Councilmember Dan Kalb asked for a preview on Tuesday night. Specifically, about improvements in Real Estate Transfer Tax receipts.

—“Is it still bad?” Kalb asked Oakland Finance Director Erin Roseman.

—“Still bad,” Roseman said.

—“That’s not the answer that I wanted to hear,” Kalb said glumly.

Oakland's finances are getting worse

MORE INSIDE:

• CITY NEWS: Oakland budget: positions may need to be cut

• Hayward’s city employee contracts are nearing expiration

• Pleasanton’s water woes; critics of leaf blower ban blow

• More details for Alameda’s use of drones at sideshows

• COUNTY NEWS: Alameda County Dems calls out more unexcused absences

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