El Cerrito, a city facing financial difficulties, continues to experience increasing expenses while essential services for residents diminish. A significant and often overlooked aspect of this issue is the city’s growing senior population. According to 2010 data, 1,188 households (11.7%) had someone living alone who was 65 or older. Despite the evident need for senior services, the city has failed to address this critical issue adequately.
In 2018, the then-mayor urged residents to support the real property transfer tax, promising to fund a new senior center. However, the senior center was closed a few years ago and rented out to Kensington, with no further council discussions on reopening or addressing the needs of our elderly population. This decision left many seniors without a dedicated space for socializing, receiving services, and engaging in community activities.
While the city claims financial constraints, it seems there are funds available for other purposes. On April 30, 2022, the city manager spent $583.66 at San Rafael Joe’s for a departmental head dinner. The detailed expenses from that evening reveal a significant amount spent on food and beverages:
- Espresso (2): $6.50
- Cappuccino (3): $12.00
- Calamari Appetizer (2): $24.50
- Bruschetta (2): $22.00
- House Salad: $6.75
- Prime Rib (4): $152.00
- Veal Scaloppini: $25.50
- Veal Parmigiana: $25.50
- Chicken Piccata: $21.00
- Veggie with Snapper: $22.00
- Prawns Saute: $24.50
- Tiramisu (2): $10.00
- Bread Pudding: $7.50
- NY Cheesecake: $7.50
- Crème Brulee: $7.00
- Cup Chowder: $7.00
- Gratuity: $84.62
- Total Due: $507.70
These expenses highlight a concerning trend of frivolous spending within the city’s government, even as it struggles to provide essential services to its residents. The city’s financial priorities appear misaligned with the needs of the community, particularly its vulnerable senior population.
As a resident of El Cerrito, it is crucial to hold our city officials accountable for their spending decisions and advocate for a more transparent and responsible allocation of our tax dollars. The city must prioritize essential services, such as reopening a senior center, to support and enhance the well-being of our elderly residents. It is only through vigilant oversight and active participation that we can ensure our city funds are used wisely and for the benefit of all residents.
El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 