Local Politics · Alameda County
Voters in five Bay Area counties will decide on a regional sales tax measure on November 3 that aims to fund public transit agencies facing significant financial deficits. If passed, the Regional Transit Measure would impose a half-cent sales tax in Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo, and Santa Clara counties, plus a one-cent tax in San Francisco, starting April 2027. Proponents argue the measure is essential to prevent BART station closures and bus service cuts, while opponents cite concerns over accountability and suggest pausing major rail expansion projects instead.
Public Safety · El Cerrito, CA
Two teenagers were hospitalized Wednesday after an e-scooter they shared collided with an SUV at a crossing on the Ohlone Greenway in El Cerrito, California. Police said the scooter was speeding and traveled past a stop sign before entering the roadway; neither rider was wearing a helmet. The extent of their injuries was not immediately known. Two El Cerrito councilmembers said they support installing stop signs for cars at all Ohlone Greenway intersections, noting that Albany already has stop signs at every crossing on its portion of the trail. El Cerrito police reminded parents to review state laws governing electric micro-mobility devices, including age, license, and helmet requirements.
