Berkeley Homeless Commission

Protesters gathered outside Berkeley’s old city hall building on Sunday to urge the city to open more emergency warming shelters for unhoused residents as intense winter rains and an atmospheric river continue to sweep the city.

As the world enters the second winter of the COVID-19 pandemic, the city of Berkeley’s homeless shelters remain at reduced capacity and continue to have pandemic precautions in place, with more people in need of shelter than there are beds available.

Berkeley City Council’s Agenda & Rules Committee met Monday to discuss the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on legislative meetings, as well as to approve action items for the July 13 council meeting.

The Berkeley City Council Budget and Finance Committee met Tuesday to discuss the city’s budget on issues ranging from Measure P to climate equity.

Nicholas Alexander has “grown up on himself,” learning to cook while navigating the foster care system. As a UC Berkeley student, Alexander would host dinner parties at his residence. Now, he cooks meals for the residents of People’s Park. 

The Dollar Tree, located on Shattuck Avenue, closed permanently Saturday, according to an employee of the store. Dollar Tree spokesperson Kayleigh Painter said the store, which had been open for 15 years, does not have plans to relocate.

As mail-in ballots continue to be counted, Sophie Hahn, the incumbent for Berkeley City Council District 5, is projected to be reelected, with 76.66% of the vote as of press time, defeating Todd Andrew and Paul Darwin Picklesimer, who currently have won 19.08% and 3.96%, respectively.

Arreguín has served as mayor with respect and awareness, and he will only improve to better support the city of Berkeley.

Carole Marasovic, a lifelong advocate for disabled and disadvantaged people, is running to be a commissioner on the Berkeley Rent Stabilization Board. 

A passionate advocate for homeless rights, Guy “Mike” Lee died at the age of 64 after years of activism and political involvement in Berkeley.