El Cerrito is facing an urgent and substantial need for capital improvements, estimated by the state auditor at nearly a quarter of a billion dollars. This staggering figure highlights the breadth of infrastructure needs within the city, encompassing everything from essential repairs to crucial building upgrades. Despite the significance of these unmet capital improvement needs, the topic remains notably absent from city council and Finance Advisory Board (FAB) meetings.
The lack of attention on this matter was particularly noticeable until it emerged at a recent League of Women Voters forum. This discussion served as an eye-opener, emphasizing just how severe and pressing these infrastructure needs are for the community. Councilmember Lisa Motoyama pointed out the essential role that repairing existing infrastructure plays in the city’s future plans. Specifically, Motoyama noted that before considering a new senior center, basic repairs must come first—suggesting that seniors may need to wait decades for an appropriate facility if current trends continue.
Historical Perspective on El Cerrito’s Capital Needs
Around 2010-2012, El Cerrito identified three core building priorities:
1. Senior Center
2. Library
3. Public Safety Building
These projects reflect the city’s vision at that time for community-centered spaces essential for public welfare, learning, and safety. Yet, under the current administration, the priorities appear to have shifted, leaving two primary needs on the city’s agenda:
1. Library
2. Public Safety Building
This narrowing focus raises questions about the prioritization process and the extent of progress on other longstanding needs, like the senior center, which appears to have taken a backseat.
Develop a Comprehensive Capital Improvement Plan
Addressing El Cerrito’s infrastructure needs requires a robust, transparent, and actionable capital improvement plan. This plan should lay out a clear roadmap for addressing the city’s infrastructure priorities, including timelines, funding strategies, and community engagement efforts. Without a strategic approach, the city risks delaying critical improvements and compromising the community’s quality of life.
Residents are encouraged to reach out to city leadership and express the need for a comprehensive capital improvement plan. Contact El Cerrito’s City Manager and City Council today to make your voice heard!
• City Manager
Email: citymanager@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
Phone: (510) 215-4300
• City Council
Email: citycouncil@ci.el-cerrito.ca.us
Phone: (510) 215-4305
Together, we can advocate for a stronger, better El Cerrito with infrastructure that supports every member of our community.
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El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 