In recent years, El Cerrito’s City Council has faced numerous challenges, particularly when it comes to the city’s finances. Yet, despite the gravity of these issues, we continue to see a troubling pattern in council meetings: the 5-0 vote. Time and again, council members unanimously support decisions that, to many, seem fundamentally flawed—especially when it comes to managing our city’s finances.
One might wonder, how can a unanimous vote be problematic? Isn’t it a sign of strong leadership and unity? In theory, yes. But in practice, especially in the context of municipal governance, it can also signal something far more concerning: a reluctance to challenge the status quo and a discomfort with dissent.
In El Cerrito, our financial health has been teetering on the edge for years. We’ve seen budgetary decisions that many of us question, yet the council votes as one. This pattern suggests a council that is either unwilling or unable to voice dissent, even when dissent is desperately needed.
What’s even more disheartening is that, during discussions, council members like Lisa and Paul often express thoughtful, rational, and empathetic concerns. They ask the right questions, highlight potential risks, and acknowledge the complexities of the issues at hand. But when it comes time to vote, those concerns seem to evaporate, and the vote ends up being a unanimous 5-0 in favor of decisions that are, at best, questionable.
This is not the hallmark of effective governance. A healthy democracy thrives on debate and the airing of diverse opinions. Dissenting votes are not a sign of discord; they are a sign of a functioning, dynamic council where every voice is heard and considered. It’s time for our city council to recognize that unity should not come at the expense of good decision-making.
As we look ahead to the next city council, we need leaders who are not just comfortable asking tough questions but who are also courageous enough to vote in line with their convictions—even if it means casting a dissenting vote. We need council members who understand that their role is not to simply go along to get along but to represent the best interests of the people of El Cerrito, even when it means standing alone.
Let’s hope that in the coming years, we see fewer 5-0 votes and more votes that reflect the true diversity of thought and opinion in our community. Because when it comes to the future of El Cerrito, we need leadership that is not afraid to challenge the norm and push for decisions that truly serve the public good.
El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 