October 7, 2025 — The City of El Cerrito continues to act as though the proposed library initiative has already passed—even though it hasn’t. On tonight’s City Council agenda, two significant consent calendar items reveal just how far preparatory work has gone behind the scenes. While preparatory work is expected, the scope and timing of these actions make it clear that the City is fully committed to pushing the project forward, regardless of the outcome at the ballot box.
Item F: MOU with BART Police
Item F authorizes the City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the BART Police Department outlining policing responsibilities for the El Cerrito Plaza BART Station Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Project. This is a proactive move that anticipates development—including the library—moving ahead. It formalizes commitments typically seen once a project has been approved and funded, not while it remains hypothetical.
Item G: $391,000 More for Consulting Services
Item G proposes a $391,000 increase to the Ghirardelli Associates consulting contract for additional construction management services tied to the Del Norte TOD Complete Streets Project. This funding was not previously budgeted. Yet it’s included alongside proclamations and committee appointments in the consent calendar, signaling that this is seen as routine business rather than a significant policy decision.
Quiet Momentum Before Public Approval
Both items highlight the significant groundwork being laid, despite the library initiative’s uncertain status. By the time voters are asked to decide, multiple agreements, consulting contracts, and operational arrangements will already be in place. This approach creates momentum and financial commitments that can influence future decisions, making it challenging to distinguish between preparatory activities and those that effectively advance the project.
Finding Funds When They Want To
Perhaps most striking is the ease with which funding is located for these efforts. The City frequently cites financial constraints when it comes to maintaining infrastructure and services. Yet, when it comes to the Plaza or the library TOD vision, money magically appears. This selective prioritization sends a clear signal: when the City wants something, it finds a way to fund it—whether or not the voters have approved it.
📺 Tune In or Attend Tonight
The City Council meeting starts at 6:00 PM tonight, Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at 10890 San Pablo Avenue.
Residents can attend in person or watch live online at www.elcerrito.gov/CouncilMeetingMaterials.
If you care about transparency and fiscal responsibility, tonight’s meeting is worth your attention.
El Cerrito Committee for Responsible Government (ECCRG) 