With the final election numbers in and a meticulous plan for what comes next, Oakland prepares to navigate the meticulous process of selecting a new mayor and Councilmember for District 2. Council President and District 2 Councilmember Nikki Fortunato Bas, soon to ascend to the Alameda County Board of Supervisors, has outlined a thoughtful timeline for these changes, according to the City of Oakland publication.
By receiving the nod of the Alameda County Registrar of Voters, the election results were made final on December 3rd, setting in motion Bas's resignation from her council seat, effective January 6, 2025, "provided the election results are certified without subsequent challenge," as she stated in a commitment to the Oakland City Clerk. Having served her constituency with dedication, Bas prepares to step away from her role to uphold the greater fiscal interest of the city, estimating savings of hundreds of thousands of dollars by consolidating the upcoming special elections. "Now, more than ever, it’s critical to come together to support a leadership transition that puts Oaklanders first for the betterment of our communities," Bas said in a statement, as per the official City of Oakland publication.
Oakland City Attorney Barbara Parker released detailed guidance in a legal opinion, laying out the processes that govern any mayoral and council vacancies and pointing towards a 2025 special election. In essence, steps are being taken to address the vacancies utilizing the wisdom of existing law, with an undercurrent of respecting public funds by synergizing the election dates for the mayoral and District 2 council seats.
With the roadmap clear, the City Clerk will prepare the resolution for the City Council's declaration of results on December 5. This will officially mark the beginning of a transition phase that includes a nominations period opening on December 23 and ending on January 17, 2025. When the Council convenes on January 6, 2025, a temporary District 2 Councilmember will also be appointed, ensuring that the community's needs continue to be met, reinforcing Council President Bas's resolve to ensure our residents and businesses receive critical city services.
