Informed by a concerned citizen
Yesterday on June 26, 2025, El Cerrito management presented their vision for the Richmond Street project—and if you missed the meeting, you can watch the recording here:
Let’s start with the good news. There were a few bright spots:
Public Engagement
City Hall was packed. Standing room only. That kind of turnout doesn’t happen by accident—it’s a sign that people are paying attention and want to be heard. Let’s carry that momentum into the next election. If you’re frustrated by how decisions are made in this city, it’s time to organize and run two strong candidates for City Council in November 2026.
Council Member Ktsanes Showed Up
Councilmember William Ktsanes not only attended the meeting—he stayed, listened, and spoke with residents. That’s what representation should look like. If you appreciated his presence, consider sending him a quick thank-you email. Elected officials need to hear when they get it right.
Yvette Ortiz Was Clear
Public Works Director Yvette Ortiz made it clear that the bicycle path on Richmond Street can be removed—and doing so would not jeopardize funding for the rest of the project. That clarity matters.
But Here’s the Real Story: The Decision Was Already Made
As is often the case in El Cerrito, city management had already decided on a direction before the community was invited in. The purpose of the meeting? Not to gather feedback, but to explain the pre-packaged plan. When asked why certain design choices were made, staff offered vague references to a 2016 general plan—suggesting their hands were tied unless Council gives new instructions. But anyone familiar with El Cerrito governance knows the pattern: management sets the agenda, and Council rubber-stamps it.
Where’s the Data? Where’s the Logic?
There are no publicly shared studies on bicycle usage in El Cerrito. No data on accident rates. No meaningful discussion of alternatives. We were told that Richmond Street is the only flat, continuous north-south route—but the proposed bike lane won’t even cover the full length of the street. So what’s the actual strategy? This feels all too familiar—just like the library project. Management defines the “public benefit,” then spends public dollars to convince the community they got it right. Public input doesn’t appear to have shaped any part of the Richmond Street plan. If it did, no one mentioned it.
Next Steps: July 15 and Beyond
The City Council will discuss the plan on July 15, 2025. If you care about how your tax dollars are spent—and whether your input counts—now’s the time to show up, speak up, and stay engaged.
Time for New Voices at City Hall
If you’ve ever thought, “This city could be better run”—now is the time to step up. El Cerrito needs leaders who will listen, question, and prioritize the public interest over pre-packaged plans. The next City Council election is in November 2026, and it’s not too early to start building a campaign rooted in transparency, accountability, and real community engagement. We need two strong candidates who are ready to challenge the status quo and stand up for residents. If that sounds like you—or someone you know—it’s time to get organized. Let’s not settle for being explained to. Let’s elect people who will lead with integrity.
El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 