Oakland Fire Stations Saved with Council Budget Amendment Passing
Fire Station Closures Halted
The triumphant reversal of previously identified fire station closures is a testament to the unwavering dedication of elected officials, city staff, and the powerful voices of community members united in purpose. Thanks to new revenue from events, sports, and concerts at the Oakland Arena and Coliseum, and reduced expenditures on liabilities, the Oakland City Council was able to vote to keep fire stations open, and reopen those that had previously closed.
Following the adoption of her amendment, Councilmember Kaplan stated, "I am thankful that we have been able to bring in new revenue thanks to bringing more activities and customers to the Oakland Arena and Coliseum, and protect public safety in our community by restoring our fire stations!"
On January 17, 2025, Councilmember Rebecca Kaplan, one of two Oakland representatives, along with Councilmember Ken Houston, on the Oakland Alameda County Coliseum Authority (OACCA), obtained formal approval to reimburse the City of Oakland $2.6 million from OACCA by voting in favor of Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Authority Resolution No. 2025-03. This reimbursement has come in due to improved revenue from successful sports, concerts, and other events at the Oakland Arena and Coliseum, illustrating the importance of uplifting and activating the historic Oakland Coliseum site.
In addition to administrative actions taken last week, on March 4th, 2025, the Oakland City Council unanimously adopted a budget amendment to reopen previously closed fire stations. And, the four additional fire stations that were scheduled to close in February are now staying open. This restores a core community need by reallocating newly identified funds and cost savings. On the reopening of the fire stations, Kaplan states, "We must continue to ensure that the mistakes of the past are not repeated, such as the devastating 1991 Oakland hills fire, which cost numerous lives and hundreds of homes." also adding, "We appreciate everyone who has helped to keep our vital services open, including maintaining fire stations open last summer, when the mobilization of personnel helped prevent a new hills fire from growing."
The City of Oakland strives to provide core municipal services. The adopted amendment does not stray from Oakland’s commitment to providing services for all residents. The actions triggered by this amendment ensure funding public safety services that better residents' lives.
Furthermore, the amendment's nexus represents an investment in residents, services, and the community. The funds for this amendment originated from the Coliseum staff, which created an exceptional product for a diverse consumer base. The activation of the Coliseum created jobs, unique experiences, and a sense of community. These nearly tangible benefits allowed us to reinvest in a fundamental municipal service: public safety.
This amendment highlights the significance of activating spaces by collaborating with diverse partners to showcase exceptional talent in various fields such as music, art, film, and sports. A notable example is the recent NBA All-Star Weekend, which set records with huge attendance at the HBCU All-Star game in Oakland.
Link to NBA HBCU All-Star Weekend recap: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlT7DBZOJgY
Oakland Roots Soccer Club Season Tickets, Single Game, Group Tickets
It is important to uplift and promote the world-class showcases of entertainment in the City of Oakland. The Oakland Roots are set to begin their first-ever home season at the Coliseum.
The Coliseum will host the Oakland Roots Soccer Club for their home season, generating additional revenue, jobs, and community spirit. The Oakland Roots have started selling season tickets for the upcoming season. You can find information and pricing for the Roots' 2025 soccer season at the Coliseum here.
Experience all of the exciting group options available at Oakland Roots games at the Oakland Coliseum. Roots games are a great way for your friends, colleagues, customers, youth and adult soccer teams or families to get together and enjoy a memorable experience. The Roots are pleased to offer discounted group seating for groups of 10 or more guests. For questions and to reserve tickets please contact tickets@rootssc.com or (510) 488-1144.
For information on single-ticket games, please click here.
Premium spaces and group packages available for Club Oak, Field Boxes, President's Suite and the Dugout here.
