Investigating Oakland city contracts

How does Oakland decide who gets millions of dollars in city contracts? And is the process fair and transparent? Host Tasneem Raja talks with City Hall reporter Eli Wolfe about his investigations into Oakland's contracting system.Plus: Oakland Animal Services’s new policies, street design in Chinatown, universal transitional kindergarten, and how Oakland city councilmembers spend their "special" bank accounts.And: arts reporter Azucena Rasilla shares weekend activities and a preview of exciting fall events in Oakland—from popular festivals like Glowfari that sell out fast to hidden gems.We can’t cover Oakland—and produce this podcast!—without your help. The Oaklandside is independent, nonprofit, and supported by everyday residents. Every dollar helps us file public records requests, interview sources, crunch data, and more. Donate to the only newsroom fully dedicated to Oakland. Stories in this episode:Weekend roundup by Azucena RasillaFall events roundupWhat did Oakland buy last year? Much is a mysteryDespite political pressure, Oakland director sticks to his guns on lucrative city contractRecords shed new light on Sheng Thao's possible involvement with Oakland security contractA pricey city contract was slipping away. Then a call was made — and it may be linked to Oakland FBI investigationAll Oakland 4-year-olds are eligible for transitional kindergarten Chinatown 'Complete Streets' concept plan moves to design and fundingWith more animals and fewer resources, Oakland Animal Services rethinks its strategy'I have people in line to give me money': how Oakland councilmembers spent their officeholder funds