Berkeley-raised champion for democracy, women’s reproductive rights, love, and equality.

The Berkeley Democratic Club proudly endorses Kamala Harris for President of the United States. It’s time to unite against Donald Trump and his toxic blend of anger, racism, and disregard for the truth.

Kamala Harris embodies a hopeful vision for our future—a vision that uplifts all Americans. She fights for fundamental rights, dignity for working people, quality healthcare, well-paying jobs, and opportunity for all, regardless of background. While Trump resorts to hateful rhetoric and bigoted policies targeting women, immigrants, communities of color, and the LGBTQIA+ community, Harris stands firm, offering a thoughtful, inclusive agenda that prioritizes the needs of ordinary Americans.

This election is our chance to reject hate and embrace progress. Let’s rally behind Kamala Harris and vote for a brighter, more equitable future. Your voice matters—cast your vote by November 5th! KamalasHarris.com

Experienced, energetic leader to carry on Barbara Lee’s legacy in Congress.

BDC proudly endorses Lateefah Simon, a transformative leader with 25 years of experience in civil rights and social justice. From her early work at the Young Women’s Freedom Center (YWFC), to becoming a MacArthur Genius Fellow, Lateefah has consistently championed systemic change.

As Executive Director of YWFC, she earned national recognition advocating for marginalized young women. She later launched the successful Second Chance Legal Services Clinic as Executive Director of the Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights. On the BART Board of Directors, Lateefah, who is legally blind, fought to make transit more affordable and accessible for working families.

Lateefah’s broad experience, visionary leadership, and unwavering dedication make her an exceptional candidate for Congress. We enthusiastically support her commitment to advancing social justice and improving public services. LateefahSimon.com

Pragmatic, progressive problem solver who has led the region in helping working families.

The East Bay needs a proven, progressive problem-solver in the State Senate to fill our legendary Nancy Skinner’s shoes, and Jesse Arreguín is that leader. As the experienced and effective mayor of Berkeley and the immediate past president of the Association of Bay Area Governments, Jesse has tackled our region’s toughest challenges with impressive results.

Under his leadership, Berkeley reduced homelessness by 45%, built its largest-ever affordable housing development, and made a historic investment in tenant protections, keeping hundreds of renters in their homes. Jesse also raised the minimum wage and introduced groundbreaking reforms to enhance police oversight, shift responses to mental health and homelessness from police to trained social workers, and focus police efforts on violent crime.

Jesse's commitment extends to combating climate change, with innovative policies like phasing out throw-away plastics and expanding clean energy options. These initiatives are now setting a precedent for cities across America.

Jesse Arreguín’s record is a testament to his ability to deliver real progress. For effective, progressive leadership in the State Senate, Jesse is the clear choice. Support him to continue driving impactful change for our community. Jesse.vote

One of the top leaders in the California Legislature continues to deliver for Berkeley residents.

Assemblymember Buffy Wicks has rapidly ascended to a prominent position in the Legislature, a testament to her exceptional leadership and dedication. As Chair of the Appropriations Committee, she holds a pivotal role that directly benefits Berkeley, the East Bay, and the broader California community. Buffy’s tenure has been marked by her relentless fight for affordable housing, addressing one of California’s most pressing issues with both passion and pragmatism.

Her recent creation of the Committee on Permitting Reform highlights her innovative approach to solving complex problems. This committee aims to cut red tape, speeding up critical projects in housing, clean energy, and climate resilience. By making these critical systems greener and more efficient, Buffy is both promoting sustainable development and protecting our environment.

Buffy’s commitment to working families and children is unwavering, and her leadership consistently reflects a focus on practical solutions over partisan divides. Her proactive and results-driven approach makes her an invaluable asset to our state, and her continued influence promises a brighter, more equitable future for all Californians. BuffyWicks.com

Proven leadership with a track record of protecting public safety, reducing homelessness, and building vibrant communities.

For productive, effective leadership in Alameda County, John J. Bauters is the clear choice. His vision includes increasing affordable housing, reducing homelessness, supporting small businesses, restoring public safety, and creating vibrant, livable communities for all.

John brings extensive experience and a proven track record. Serving on the Emeryville City Council since 2016, including three years as Mayor, John achieved a 79% reduction in homelessness and led the passage of a $50 million affordable housing bond that supported very low-income housing and anti-displacement protections.

With over two decades of fighting poverty, John's career spans from eviction defense attorney to policy and financial expert in homelessness and mental health services. His dedication earned him the Visionary Award from the Sierra Club for his role as Chair of the Bay Area Air Quality Management Board, where he championed rigorous air quality regulations.

John's leadership is backed by a broad coalition, including firefighters, Planned Parenthood, and outgoing Supervisor Keith Carson, who has endorsed John as his successor. In contrast, Nikki Bas proposed a 50% cut to the Oakland police department—a proposal that is impractical, unrealistic, and expensive. We need a policy expert with a deep understanding of budgets to effectively manage the Board of Supervisors' $4.5 billion budget, and John Bauters is that person.

John Bauters offers a clear, effective path forward for Alameda County, supported by experience and a proven record of success. Support John Bauters for Supervisor to drive real, positive change in our community. BautersForSupervisor.com

A fresh, pragmatic leader ready to unite Berkeley around common-sense solutions for affordable housing, public safety, and community wellness

Adena Ishii is focused on solving problems, not fighting people. Endorsed by State Senator Nancy Skinner and Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, she’s the fresh leader Berkeley needs. This year, two City Council members resigned, calling Berkeley's local government broken and toxic.

Ishii offers a new approach: lowering the temperature, fostering compromise, and uniting people around common-sense solutions. Her political foundation is nonpartisan, having served as the youngest and first woman of color elected President of our local League of Women Voters. There, Adena strengthened democracy by increasing voter participation and advocating for policy-driven solutions.

Adena Ishii will prioritize creating more affordable homes in every Berkeley neighborhood and improving shelters to make them a safe, welcoming alternative to the streets. She is committed to investing in mental health services, expanding youth programming, and ensuring that Berkeley's fire and police departments have the resources they need to serve the community effectively. Ishii’s focus on practical, collaborative solutions will help address Berkeley’s most pressing challenges and bring positive change to the city. Ishii, who has lived in Berkeley for nearly half her life, spent over a decade working on local policy issues and knows we can do better if leaders stop infighting and focus on real progress.

Ishii’s pragmatic leadership contrasts with her opponents whose obstructive approaches have included attempting to cut Berkeley police officers by 50%, blocking reasonable housing initiatives, and undermining common-sense public safety measures.

If you want a leader who prioritizes action over rhetoric, Adena Ishii is the clear choice for your #1 vote. Learn more and support her at AdenaIshii.com

Dedicated Councilmember advocating for public safety, housing affordability, and working families while securing essential funding for community improvements.

Over the past four years, Terry Taplin has emerged as one of Berkeley's most effective Councilmembers. His focus on key issues such as public safety, housing affordability, city services, infrastructure investment, and support for working families has resonated with many residents. Since his election in 2020, Councilmember Taplin has been a dedicated advocate for West Berkeley, securing additional funding for repaving projects and $15 million for improvements at the Marina and new parks. He has also negotiated over $33 million for biotech development aimed at enhancing community education and resilience.

During his first term, Terry prioritized a comprehensive approach to public safety, implementing new security cameras to deter crime while supporting citywide efforts to address homelessness through transitional and supportive housing initiatives. As a strong advocate for working people, he has championed their rights to negotiate for fair pay and safe working conditions, including securing hazard pay for grocery workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Councilmember Taplin's commitment to the community and his effective leadership make him one of Berkeley’s standout figures. He truly deserves your support for re-election. TaplinForCouncil.com

Committed advocate for South Berkeley with over 20 years of experience prioritizing public safety, housing affordability, and community voices

Deborah Matthews has dedicated over two decades to serving South Berkeley, prioritizing public safety and housing affordability. She is committed to addressing the rising crime rates—be it street violence, thefts, or ensuring that our seniors feel safe and children can walk to school without fear.

As a co-founder of South Berkeley NOW, Deborah advocates for housing affordability and a more accessible BART plan, ensuring that community voices are amplified. She is particularly focused on increasing home ownership opportunities for the historically neglected Black community.

Deborah also seeks to bring transparency to the city’s budget process, making sure our Rainy Day and Housing Trust Funds are wisely invested. Her extensive experience, reflected in her long service on various City of Berkeley boards and commissions, demonstrates her deep commitment and respect in the community.

Join the Berkeley Democratic Club in supporting Deborah Matthews, a candidate who is serious about tackling crime and building a safer, more equitable South Berkeley for all. Deborah4Berkeley.com

Pragmatic progressive rooted in District 6 and dedicated to improving public safety, affordable housing, and wildfire preparedness.

Brent Blackaby is committed to improving the lives of everyone in District 6 and throughout Berkeley. With a can-do attitude, he focuses on key issues like crime and public safety, safe streets, affordable housing, and homelessness.

Brent has lived in North Berkeley for nearly 20 years with his partner, Larry Huynh. Brent is active in the community and chairs the School Site Council at Cragmont Elementary, where his and Larry’s two children go to school. He also serves on the Berkeley Police Accountability Board, providing crucial oversight of Berkeley’s police department.

Brent is laser focused on wildfire safety, organizing his North Berkeley neighborhood through the Firewise program to prepare for potential threats. His efforts ensure that residents are informed and equipped to protect their homes and families, and he will carry on Susan Wengraf’s legacy of making fire safety a priority for Council.

Endorsed by State Senator Nancy Skinner, Assemblymember Buffy Wicks, Councilmember Susan Wengraf, former U.S. Senator Barbara Boxer, and a majority of the Berkeley City Council, Brent has the strong community support needed to drive change. Vote for Brent Blackaby—he is a District 6 stalwart dedicated to ensuring a safer, stronger Berkeley for all. BrentForBerkeley.com

Independent candidates who prioritize effective governance and thoughtful policy over rigid ideology.

The Berkeley Democratic Club proudly endorses Andy Kelley and Carole Marasovic for the Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board. Although they are not part of the Rent Board “Right to Housing” slate, we believe their independent perspectives will enhance the board’s diversity of thought, which is crucial for effective governance.

Andy Kelley brings four years of dedicated service to the Rent Board, demonstrating a strong commitment to community outreach and tenant advocacy. Carole Marasovic has similarly shown her dedication to housing security as chair of the Homeless Panel of Experts, addressing critical issues with insight and compassion.

This year, the BDC has chosen not to endorse any slate candidates due to concerns about the slate’s approach. We are worried that the slate’s rigid commitment to a specific set of policies and controversial issues—such as Gaza and policing measures—distracts from the board’s core mission of supporting tenants and property owners. We also believe that pledging loyalty to predetermined policy proposals stifles independent and critical thinking.

Andy Kelley and Carole Marasovic offer a balanced, pragmatic approach, focusing on effective outcomes rather than ideology. If you value thoughtful, outcome-oriented policies, we urge you to vote for Andy Kelley and Carole Marasovic.

Three decades of educational expertise and commitment to advance equity, and enhance instruction.

With an impressive thirty-year career in education, Jen Corn brings unparalleled experience and a deep commitment to Berkeley’s public schools. Having served as a teacher, principal, and now as Director of School Improvement, Jen has a proven track record of enhancing educational outcomes and supporting diverse student needs.

Jen’s passion for Berkeley’s educational system is evident through her extensive background in both classroom instruction and administrative roles. Her hands-on experience includes teaching at Sylvia Mendez and Rosa Parks, leading Oxford Elementary and Thousand Oaks as principal, and guiding district-wide improvements. This depth of experience uniquely positions Jen to effectively anticipate and address the impacts of budget, program, and policy decisions on our schools.

Jen’s goals are clear: advancing equity by accelerating the achievement of marginalized students, fostering a sense of belonging through inclusive and anti-racist practices, and ensuring stability by recruiting and retaining high-quality staff while managing the budget transparently. Jen is particularly committed to improving classroom instruction and strengthening family partnerships, making her a well-rounded choice to lead our schools toward a future of excellence and inclusivity. JenCorn.org

Proven track record of advancing educational excellence, with a focus on equity and effective budgeting to benefit every student

With four years of dedicated service on the School Board and over a decade of advocacy for equity as a parent, Laura has demonstrated a deep commitment to advancing educational excellence for all students in Berkeley Public Schools.

Under Laura’s leadership, BUSD has achieved significant milestones, including safely reopening schools, enhancing safety and inclusivity policies, and effectively redirecting funds to modernize campuses and expand student programs. Notably, Laura has navigated substantial budget cuts, secured a 12% raise for educators, and funded the African American Success Framework, achieving tangible improvements in just two years.

Looking ahead, Laura is committed to furthering these successes by focusing on outcome-oriented budgeting, updating outdated policies, and cutting bureaucratic red tape. Her goals include improving accountability, enhancing school safety, and advancing curriculum improvements in reading, math, and Career and Technical Education (CTE) to better prepare students for college and careers.

Laura embodies the proactive, equity-driven leadership needed to continue making a positive impact on our schools. LauraBabitt.com

Visionary leader dedicated to transforming BART into a safe, sustainable, and inclusive transit system for all Bay Area residents

As the child of immigrant parents, a formerly incarcerated youth, and a UC Berkeley graduate, Victor brings a unique perspective and a deep commitment to improving the Bay Area for all. He understands that BART is not just a transit system but a crucial link for economic mobility and community connection.

Victor's innovative approach to safety involves expanding the ambassador program and collaborating with social workers to constructively address behavior issues and create a supportive environment for riders. His vision for financial sustainability includes diversifying revenue streams through community partnerships and a Rail+Property funding model.

Moreover, Victor aims to transform BART stations into vibrant community hubs, integrating recreation, culture, and commerce to enhance local neighborhoods and attract riders.

His dedication to making BART work for everyone is clear and that’s why he’s been endorsed by Assemblymember Buffy Wicks and outgoing BART board member Lateefah Simon.

Victor Flores is the candidate we need to lead BART toward a safer, more sustainable, and inclusive future. VictorFloresForBART.com

Sustain Berkeley's remarkable progress in reducing homelessness

The Berkeley Democratic Club strongly endorses Measure W, a crucial initiative that will continue to fund Berkeley’s efforts in addressing our homelessness crisis. Since its introduction in 2018, this transfer tax—applied only to the top third of property sales—has proven remarkably effective. Thanks to Measure W, Berkeley has successfully rehoused over 1,500 individuals and reduced unsheltered homelessness by an unprecedented 45%.

As the current measure approaches its sunset, there is a pressing need to reauthorize and enhance it to sustain the progress Berkeley has made. With partner agencies expressing concern about their ability to maintain essential programs without this vital funding, Measure W’s continuation is essential. Importantly, the tax applies only to high-value commercial, multifamily, and residential property sales, meaning most Berkeley residents will not be directly affected.

No other Bay Area community has achieved the level of success Berkeley has with this revenue stream. To ensure Berkeley can continue providing effective solutions and address homelessness, it is important to vote Yes on Measure W. YesOnW.com

Keep Berkeley’s libraries well-staffed, open longer, and fully equipped

The Berkeley Democratic Club supports Measure X, a special parcel tax to secure the future of Berkeley’s beloved libraries. Libraries are cornerstone institutions in our community, providing essential services and programs that enrich lives and support lifelong learning. Measure X will ensure our libraries remain well-staffed, well-stocked, and open during evenings and weekends.

Without this measure, the Berkeley Public Library faces significant challenges, including reduced hours, cutbacks in staff and collections, and delayed maintenance and technology upgrades. The Library’s primary funding source, established in 1980, has not kept pace with inflation or the rising costs of library operations. While past bond measures have expanded and updated facilities, they did not address critical deferred maintenance.

Measure X aims to rectify this by prioritizing the most pressing needs: maintaining well-staffed neighborhood libraries, preserving evening and weekend hours, and maintaining youth and educational programs, including afterschool reading and tutoring services. This measure is crucial for keeping our libraries vibrant and effective community hubs. Vote Yes on Measure X to support the continued excellence and accessibility of Berkeley's libraries. BerkeleyLibrariesYesOnX.com

Revitalize and maintain Berkeley’s parks, waterfront, and urban forest

The Berkeley Democratic Club endorses Measure Y, an important proposal for the revitalization and maintenance of Berkeley’s parks, waterfront, and urban forest. Our community faces significant challenges: 10,000 empty tree spaces in our parks and right-of-ways, aging infrastructure, and deferred maintenance that has left many landscaped medians in disrepair. The projected $91 million needed for capital improvements highlights the urgency of addressing these issues.

Measure Y proposes a modest increase in the Parks Tax from 22.1 cents to 26.5 cents per square foot of building space. This increase will generate an additional $3.6 million annually, enabling the funding of critical projects. These funds will not only cover deferred maintenance but also attract third-party contributions, leveraging past successes where $129 million in non-city funds were secured for Berkeley’s parks and waterfront.

Parks are more than just green spaces—they are a symbol of equity, joy, and community pride. By supporting Measure Y, you are investing in a renewed urban forest, well-maintained parks, and vibrant waterfront facilities that enrich the lives of all Berkeley residents. Vote Yes on Measure Y to protect and enhance our cherished public spaces. BerkeleyParksYesOnY.com

Continue funding vital health programs and education initiatives through the proven 1-cent per ounce tax on sugary drinks

The Berkeley Democratic Club supports Measure Z, a continuation of the successful 1-cent per ounce tax on sugary drink distributors first passed by 75% of voters in 2014. This tax has raised nearly $12 million, significantly benefiting Berkeley's community health.

Measure Z will continue to fund vital programs that have already demonstrated impactful results. These include the Berkeley Public School Gardening and Cooking Program, which enhances students’ education in all 17 BUSD schools with hands-on learning about nutrition and cooking. The tax also supports essential health and dental screenings for low-income community members, with over 77,000 screenings provided to date.

This measure has contributed to a decrease in sugary drink consumption and an increase in water intake among Berkeley residents. By renewing this tax, we can ensure the continued success and expansion of these critical programs, fostering better health and well-being throughout our community. Vote Yes on Measure Z to sustain these essential services and support a healthier future for Berkeley. BerkeleyVsBigSoda.com

Necessary formality under state law to use already-approved funding

The Berkeley Democratic Club endorses Measure AA, the GANN Limit measure to reauthorize the expenditure of previously approved taxes. This measure, placed on the ballot unanimously by the City Council, does not raise your taxes. It is a necessary formality under state law to ensure the continued use of funds Berkeley voters have already approved.

If Measure AA fails, Berkeley stands to lose tens of millions in essential revenue, jeopardizing vital services such as public libraries, fire stations, park maintenance, and wildfire prevention. Voting Yes on Measure AA is essential to maintaining these critical services and protecting our community.

Poorly designed measure that imposes stringent regulations on small property owners.

Measure BB, barely approved by City Council, is a poorly designed measure that fails to address Berkeley's housing crisis and creates new obstacles for small property owners. By imposing stringent regulations, it discourages owners of single-family homes and duplexes from renting out their units.

The measure introduces an unrealistic requirement that landlords prove "actual injury" to terminate a tenancy, making it challenging to address lease violations. This cumbersome process not only deters property owners from renting but also increases the likelihood of prolonged disputes. Small property owners, who are essential for providing affordable housing, face significant hurdles, including a hefty relocation fee of over $27,000 if they need to end a tenancy.

Instead of incentivizing owners to bring secondary units to market, Measure BB makes it harder to do so by fostering a complex and costly legal environment. Historically, increased regulations have driven small property owners to sell their properties to larger corporations, reducing community-owned housing options and driving up rents.

Berkeley needs a balanced approach to increase rental housing availability and affordability. Measure BB does neither and risks exacerbating our housing challenges. Vote No on Measure BB to protect small property owners and ensure a more practical approach to housing regulation.

Citizens initiative that does not provide meaningful relief to those struggling with housing affordability.

The Berkeley Democratic Club recommends voting No on Measure CC, the rent relief citizens initiative measure circulated by property owners. Although it includes a "Right to Organize" provision, it requires a high threshold—75% of tenants must agree before a landlord must engage in negotiations. This high bar may limit the effectiveness of tenant organizing efforts.

Moreover, Measure CC proposes an increase of 0.1% to the rent increase cap. Given the already high and rising housing costs in Berkeley, this adjustment seems unnecessary and could further exacerbate the burden on renters. Raising the rent cap at all in this climate does not align with the goal of providing meaningful relief to those struggling with housing affordability.

Measure CC could also potentially limit tenants’ ability to avail themselves of critical legal assistance in the event they have a dispute with their landlord. Regardless of how one feels about rent stabilization or the Rent Stabilization Board, fair access to legal representation should be a shared value.

For these reasons, we believe Measure CC does not adequately address the needs of renters and we recommend a vote against it.

Performative measure to ban animal feeding operations which don’t exist in Berkeley.

The Berkeley Democratic Club recommends you vote No on Measure DD which bans Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations because there are no concentrated animal feeding operations in Berkeley. This is just one of many citizens’ initiatives crowding Berkeley’s ballot.

Risks misuse of funds and doesn’t provide enough funding to improve streets.

The Berkeley Democratic Club strongly urges a NO vote on Measure EE.

First, the measure fails to implement essential guardrails to prevent the misuse of funds. Measure EE provides a loophole for the City Council to reallocate existing paving funds elsewhere while still collecting the tax. This oversight risks negating any benefits of EE, undermining the intended improvements and potentially leaving our streets in even worse condition.

Second, Measure EE does not provide enough funding to improve our streets. A nonpartisan report highlights that Measure EE is insufficient to meet even existing maintenance needs, leading to further deterioration of our streets. Why would you vote to tax yourself for worse streets?

Additionally, Measure EE fails to invest in safety for people who are walking and biking, including children and seniors. Berkeley has seen an alarming rise in traffic crashes that leave our neighbors severely injured or killed, including parents, children, and seniors. Measure EE has only limited considerations for addressing these safety needs, falling far short of what our community deserves.

Measure EE has weak accountability measures. Measure EE fails to require that its spending be consistent with Berkeley’s existing policies, plans, and programs. This could cause unnecessary conflicts and legal trouble. The oversight body proposed by EE is also woefully inadequate, relying on an irrelevant section of the Berkeley Municipal Code that would exclude many experts and engaged community members from participating in the oversight body.

Measure EE’s exceedingly restrictive approach limits its ability to unlock potential state, regional, or federal infrastructure funding. Matching funds are typically available for infrastructure upgrades which can incorporate repaving. But EE explicitly states that the intent of the measure is not to fund new infrastructure, potentially barring it from being used to secure free money from these matching funds.

Don’t be deceived by Measure EE’s superficially appealing promises. Its lack of foresight and critical financial safeguards means it fails to provide a reliable solution for our infrastructure woes. Independent City analysis finds it falls woefully short in necessary funding for both street paving and sidewalk repair.

Vote NO on EE and instead support Measure FF, which offers a more robust and reliable plan for enhancing our streets and ensuring safety for all Berkeley residents.

Join firefighters and the City Auditor in supporting the only measure projected to maintain or improve Berkeley streets.

The Berkeley Democratic Club enthusiastically endorses Measure FF as the definitive choice for addressing our city’s urgent infrastructure needs. Measure FF is the only measure projected to effectively maintain or improve Berkeley streets, according to an impartial City analysis.

Measure FF delivers twice as much funding for street paving, safety improvements, and environmental enhancements compared to Measure EE—all at a modest additional cost of just $1.50 per week for homeowners.

Without this significant infusion of funds, Berkeley’s streets will continue to deteriorate, and costs to taxpayers will continue to grow exponentially as streets become more difficult to repair.

Measure FF also guarantees substantial funding—over $50 million—for essential safety improvements that will protect all Berkeley residents. This includes enhancing Safe Routes to Schools, improving 911 response times, and fixing our sidewalks. Measure FF’s funding approach allows for a wide range of critical safety enhancements, including crosswalk improvements, speed cameras, and traffic calming measures across the city.

Unlike Measure EE, which specifies limited projects, FF relies on a robust public input process to ensure all funded projects are aligned with community priorities and existing city plans. That’s why Berkeley Firefighters and every elected member of the School Board support Measure FF.

What sets Measure FF apart is its unparalleled oversight and accountability framework. It establishes a rigorous triple oversight system that ensures transparency and effectiveness. An independent Citizen Oversight Committee will be composed of experts, producing annual reports on progress. Additionally, the City Manager will prepare a detailed annual performance report, and the City Auditor will conduct regular performance audits. Measure FF also mandates that the City Council maintain 100% of existing paving funding, with strict penalties if this obligation is unmet, yet flexible provisions ensure that funding remains intact during crises. It’s no surprise that our City Auditor, Jenny Wong—who garnered national acclaim for her outstanding audit of Berkeley's deteriorating streets—is fully behind Measure FF.

Without FF, Berkeley’s crumbling streets will only get worse. The Berkeley Democratic Club is proud to join the League of Women Voters, the Berkeley Firefighters Association, the Democratic Party, and the Sierra Club in recommending every Berkeley resident vote YES on FF by November 5th. YesOnFF.com

Poorly designed citizens’ initiative that taxes Berkeley businesses and non-profits and could deal a death blow to Berkeley theaters, Alta Bates, and Berkeley Bowl.

Measure GG, disguised as a carbon tax, is a poorly crafted and unsustainable initiative that threatens the heart of Berkeley's community—our beloved nonprofits, small businesses, hospitals, faith institutions, and renters. Contrary to its claims, Measure GG will not incentivize lower emissions in a sustainable and fair manner. Instead, GG will nearly triple certain energy costs overnight, resulting in financial strain that could force cherished establishments like Berkeley Bowl, Alta Bates Hospital, Boichik Bagels, Fieldwork Brewery and the YMCA to close or relocate.

The measure fails to provide a realistic path for transition away from natural gas (p.25). It imposes immediate and severe tax increases without offering adequate time, support, or incentives for businesses and nonprofits to adapt. The technology needed to switch some facilities to all-electric systems may not even be available yet, and many property owners will simply pass these costs onto tenants—often small businesses and nonprofits—who have no control over their buildings' heating and cooling systems.

Renters will be hit hard too, facing potential rent hikes or displacement due to the increased operating costs passed on by property owners. Moreover, Alta Bates hospital and numerous essential services will face unsustainable financial pressures, putting critical services at risk.

Berkeley is a climate action leader, and we’re making significant progress in reducing natural gas usage. Measure GG, however, is a misguided step that jeopardizes our community’s stability and prosperity. Instead of imposing a punitive and poorly designed tax, let’s support a more thoughtful approach to sustainability that protects our local institutions and helps everyone transition smoothly.

Join the No on GG coalition and support a compassionate, fair approach to climate action. www.NOonGG.org Read the nonpartisan city analysis of its impacts here.

Unscientific and unfunded HVAC system mandate without important stakeholder input threatens city services.

Measure HH is a misguided and unfunded mandate that threatens to strain Berkeley’s budget and cut city services we all rely on. It takes an unscientific approach to indoor air quality, while also failing to address the critical issue of funding, leaving taxpayers on the hook for hidden costs.

A recent city report found that implementing the Measure HH will be catastrophically expensive. Facility assessments alone are estimated to cost between $2-4 million, with additional costs for upgrades remaining unknown. The measure’s broad and unfunded scope means that the city will have to divert resources from essential services and things like street paving and public safety to meet these new requirements.

Measure HH demands expensive HVAC installations and maintenance for all city-owned and leased buildings, including historic sites. Tenants, including nonprofits, will face costly upgrades, which could be infeasible or unnecessary. The measure also adopts unrealistic, one-size-fits all approaches to guaranteeing indoor air quality and fails to adopt best practices for risk assessment and cost-benefit analysis. If city buildings, including senior centers and youth recreation centers fail to upgrade in a few months, the measure demands the buildings shut down. Measure HH also opens the door to costly and frivolous lawsuits.

Berkeley has already shown its commitment to public health with stringent COVID protocols and effective air filtration systems, contributing to some of the lowest COVID-19 case rates in the nation. Yet Measure HH was proposed without proper consultation with voters or public health experts, city leaders or stakeholders, undermining its practicality.

If this financially reckless mandate passes, we won’t have a chance to fix it until voters go back to the ballot box—possibly not for two more years. Vote No on Measure HH to protect Berkeley’s essential services and fiscal health.