Corruption is rampant in local communities in California, and federal authorities report it. Over the past ten years, the F.B.I. has reported that over 576 local officials in California have been convicted of misconduct in office. The F.B.I. tells us that California’s corruption numbers continue to climb because California is a one-party state, inattentive voters, and a weakened news media have reduced traditional checks of those in power in California. As an Oakley City Councilmember, I worry about the subject continuously.
Oakley is as vulnerable to corruption as every other California municipality. I have spoken of the abuses of discretion by our former City Manager, Bryan Montgomery. I was met with hostile replies when I mentioned some of his transgressions, especially from the Rotary Club of Oakley members during the 2020 election. The membership circled the wagons to protect Montgomery.
During the current election in 2024, some council members have pushed to silence anyone who takes a different path from the one they follow. The hope is to create a homogenous council so there will be no despairing words about their positions on issues.
I suggest that Oakley citizens be aware of the danger of complacency. Vote your voice on November 5, 2024. Make your positions known on the issues that confront Oakley. If you observe questionable behavior from city officials, bring the conduct forward. The Contra Costa County District Attorney’s Office is pursuing public corruption throughout the county, not just Antioch. The F.B.I. has a public corruption unit in their office in San Francisco. The California Attorney General’s Office, as does the Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC), investigates public corruption. Contact them rather than be silent.
Most importantly, speak out.
A link to a New York Times article by Ralph Vartabedian reporting the corruption is below.
