- Emeryville Rents Surge More Than 20%
City and SEIU Reach Tentative Agreement on New Labor Contract
The City of Emeryville and SEIU Local 1021 have reached a tentative agreement on a new two-year labor contract covering the union’s city employees. The agreement, which still requires final approval by the City Council, includes 3% salary increases in each year of the contract, a $1,000 one-time payment and a number of changes to employee benefits, leave and working conditions.
The agreement would run from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2028. Other provisions include an increased uniform allowance for Public Works employees, changes to police training and probation provisions, expanded union leave and revisions to medical benefits and performance evaluations. The agreement also calls for the City and SEIU to establish subcommittees to address several issues, including bilingual pay, commuter benefits, tuition reimbursement and vacation sellback.
Burned Human Remains Found Near Emeryville Border
The charred remains of an unidentified woman were discovered July 27 beneath Interstate 80 near Hollis Street in West Oakland, just a short distance from the Emeryville border. Authorities are investigating the discovery as an apparent homicide and believe the woman may have been in her 20s.
Investigators have not yet identified the woman and are awaiting DNA and dental-record testing. Authorities believe she may be someone who was reported missing about a week before her remains were discovered.
City of Oakland Looking to Tackle Persistent Commercial Vacancies
Vacant storefronts along San Pablo Avenue in North Oakland are among the most visible examples of a problem Oakland is trying to tackle: persistent commercial vacancies that have left once-active business corridors dotted with empty spaces. A recent Oakland Civic Assembly report examined the causes of vacant storefronts and lots and offered recommendations for getting them back into productive use…